The symptoms of lemon balm allergy in dogs include frequent itching, hives, redness of the skin, sneezing, wheezing, and coughing. In severe cases, dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
The cause of lemon balm allergy in dogs is an immune system reaction to a compound in this herb. This compound, known as a terpene, triggers an immune response that causes inflammation in the body and the development of allergic symptoms. The sensitivity to the terpene can vary from dog to dog, and it is not known why some dogs are more sensitive than others.
The diagnosis of lemon balm allergy in dogs involves taking a detailed medical history, along with a physical examination, and possibly allergy testing or skin tests. Your veterinarian may also use a blood sample to look for specific allergen antibodies. Treatment typically involves avoidance of the allergen, as well as topical or systemic medications to reduce itching, redness, and inflammation.
Lemon balm allergy in dogs is considered to be moderate in severity. In the presence of any severe symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary attention. If left untreated, this allergy could be potentially fatal due to respiratory complications like difficulty breathing. The mortality rate for untreated lemon balm allergy in dogs is unknown.
Lemon balm allergy in dogs should be treated first by identifying and avoiding any potential allergens that may be causing it. Dogs should be kept away from any lemon balm-based products or treats, and any contact with it should be minimized. If the necessary precautions are taken, the symptoms may improve. Veterinarians may recommend medications such as antihistamines to help reduce the severity of the allergic reaction. Steroids may be recommended for more severe cases, as well as allergy shots or immunotherapy to reduce the dogs’ sensitivity to the allergen.
Prevention of lemon balm allergy in dogs includes avoiding contact with the allergen, avoiding sources of stress and environmental triggers, providing a healthy diet and regular exercise, and using an appropriate flea prevention program. To reduce skin irritation, it is recommended to give the dog a bath every few weeks with a shampoo designed for sensitive skin. Also, use a non-scented, hypoallergenic dish soap and laundry detergent when washing blankets or bedding. If the symptoms are severe, seek medical advice to discuss the best treatment plan.
This dog allergy is not contagious and cannot be spread from one dog to another. However, this allergy can indirectly affect humans in the form of pet dander, which can trigger asthma and allergies in humans. Additionally, some side effects of the same medications used to treat this allergy in dogs may trigger symptoms in humans if ingested.
Home remedies for managing lemon balm allergy in dogs include feeding them a hypoallergenic diet, bathing them periodically with a gentle shampoo, avoiding areas where lemon balm is in abundance, and administering antihistamines and supplements to reduce their symptoms.
While these dog allergy remedies may help manage the effects of a lemon balm allergy in dogs, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that the symptoms are correctly diagnosed and that the best course of treatment is prescribed.
The following breeds of dogs are known to be most vulnerable to lemon balm allergy: Bearded Collies, Bichon Frises, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Lhasa Apsos, Poodles, Shih Tzus, and West Highland White Terriers. These breeds are genetically predisposed to having reactive skin to these types of herb-based allergies. Symptoms of a lemon balm allergy in dogs can include itchiness, redness, swelling, hives, and excessive licking of the affected area. It is therefore important to keep these breeds away from any areas that contain any form of the herb, and consult a veterinarian if any of the above symptoms are observed.
Have you ever experienced an allergic reaction with your dog to lemon balm? If so, how did you respond to the situation? What were the symptoms and how were they managed? You must have felt helpless while your fur baby was not feeling their best. We hope your family is doing well and that you feel confident in your pet’s care. Wishing you all the best.
