When you don't feel well, for whatever reason, it often keeps you up at night. You can't sleep and are restless. Well, the same thing can happen to your pet. If you are suffering from restless nights due to your pet constantly licking, scratching and performing similar behaviors, it may be time to visit your local veterinarian to find out what is going on and develop a course of treatment. In the meantime, here are four potential causes:

1. Allergies

Just like humans, pets can also have allergies. Your pet can exhibit signs of allergy issues, including sneezing, itchy eyes and chewing paws, which may keep them up at night. Unfortunately, your pet can't tell you specifically how much discomfort that they are in. Therefore, you need to pay close attention to how your pet acts, as allergy symptoms are particularly irritating. Although there is not an allergy cure, the symptoms can be managed. You can start preventing allergies by keeping your pet bathed and groomed, but if you notice any of the aforementioned or similar symptoms, you need to get your pet to the vet.

2. Dry Skin

Pets can also suffer from dry skin caused by cold, dry air in the winter or even a deficiency in their diet. As you know, dry skin is very aggravating, with symptoms ranging from red, flaking skin to excessive scratching and irritation. If you notice these symptoms are bothering your pet or keeping your pet up at night, there is something going on. It may be dry skin, or it could be something more serious. Your best bet is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to determine the culprit and offer the most appropriate treatment.

3. Parasites

One of the most common reasons for your pet to stay up at night itching, scratching, chewing and licking compulsively is due to ticks, fleas and mites. You will typically be able to see ticks and fleas on your pet, but mites cannot be seen by the naked eye. Just because you can't see something, it doesn't mean that your pet isn't suffering from some form of parasite. If your pet is showing compulsive signs of behavior, consult with your veterinarian.

4. Pain

Just like humans, pets can be in pain. However, they don't express their discomfort the same way that you may. Instead, the area that is painful to your pet will likely be constantly chewed and licked at. In some cases, particularly at night, your pet may cry out in pain. Some pets will actually hide their discomfort and the fact that they are in pain, so you need to watch for any changes in behavior.

As you can see, there are numerous reasons why you pet may be keeping you up at night and staying up himself licking and scratching. Your veterinarian will be able to examine your pet, perform any necessary testing and reach a diagnosis. In some cases, treatment may include prescribing medication or supplements or changing your pet's diet. If you notice even the slightest change in your pet's behavior or skin that alarms you, contact a local veterinarian, such as Beaver Lake Animal Hospital, as soon as possible.