Normally, when a flea bites an animal, there is little to no irritation. If your pet has flea allergy dermatitis, he will experience intense itching and irritation from a flea bite. These lesions can lead to infections. If you want to know how to soothe flea allergy dermatitis, there are several home remedies, such as topical herbs, witch hazel, and pet foods with immune system support. Always talk to your vet before treating your pet for flea allergy dermatitis.
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Immune system support
An animal with a poor immune system is more likely to have an allergic reaction to flea bites than an animal with a strong immune system. Although there are many vitamins and immunity-boosting products on the market, one of the easiest and most natural ways to boost your pet's immune system is with high-quality pet food.
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If you are unsure if a brand is high-quality, ask your vet or an employee at your local pet store for suggestions. However, if you are switching your pet's food, make it a gradual change by integrating a little of the new food every meal and decreasing the quantity of the old food. This will help keep your pet from developing an upset stomach.
Herbal flea allergy dermatitis treatment
One of the most common symptoms of flea allergy dermatitis is the intense itching caused by the saliva of the flea when it bites your pet. Conventional treatments for the itching include either a prescribed or an over-the-counter antihistamine. If you are looking for a natural remedy, eucalyptus, rosemary, fennel, and yellow dock are herbal options.
The herbs can be mixed together in equal parts and sprinkled on your pet's coat several times a week, discouraging fleas from biting. Before administering an herbal remedy, double-check with your vet to ensure the particular herb is acceptable for your pet's breed and specific situation. Your vet also can provide specific dosages for your animal's size.
Relieve itchiness with witch hazel
Witch hazel is a plant that is made into a natural astringent. It is commonly used to treat hemorrhoids and other skin inflammations in humans. Witch hazel also is an effective home remedy for flea bites. Bottles of liquid witch hazel are available at your local drugstore. Pour the liquid directly on the affected skin or dab it on with a cotton ball. The witch hazel helps to relieve itching, soothe dry and irritated skin, and promote healing of open sores that sometimes occur with flea allergies.
Brush your pet regularly
Proper grooming of your pet will help to relieve the symptoms of flea allergy dermatitis. Using a flea comb to brush your pet daily removes fleas and their eggs. Also, bathing your pet every one to two weeks helps wash away and kill fleas. Purchase commercial pet washes formulated for flea treatments at the pet store, or use liquid dish-washing detergent.
Preventative flea medication
Talk to your vet about preventative medication for fleas. There are several medications on the market for preventing flea bites on pets. Some are worn as a collar, some are given orally, and some are applied topically between the shoulder blades. These medications are extremely effective at killing and/or preventing fleas on pets.