Seasonal and Year-Round Allergies in Dogs and Cats
Did you know that pets can experience allergy symptoms any time of the year? Environmental allergens typically tend to spike in spring and fall, but there are other potential triggers that persist no matter the season. The clinical signs of allergies in dogs and cats vary, but commonly affect the skin, respiratory tract, or the digestive system. If your pet is suffering with constant itching, pain, anxiety, or overall discomfort, your veterinarian can help you treat allergies in pets.
Common Signs of Allergies
Allergies can sneak up on you, or they can present immediately obvious signals that something’s wrong. Allergies are the immune system’s response to a foreign substance. A pet’s skin may come into contact with an allergen, or they may breathe or ingest allergens. Ongoing exposure to allergens can weaken the immune system.
Typical signs can include sudden, repetitive, or uncharacteristic symptoms, such as:
- Head shaking
- Rubbing the body on carpeting or furniture
- Licking the paws
- Chewing or biting the skin
- Scratching the ears
- Hair loss
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Sneezing
- Discharge of the eyes or nose
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Because of the distressing nature of these symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible if your pet is suffering. Open wounds from over-scratching, licking, or biting can lead to secondary bacterial infections. Recurring ear infections in dogs are also a common side effect of allergies.
Determining the Cause
To understand what’s behind the itching and scratching, we will consider the three most common causes of allergies in pets:
- External parasites (fleas or mites)
- Food (most often a specific protein or carbohydrate triggers symptoms)
- Environmental allergens (smoke, pollen, dust, perfumes, grass, weeds, mold, etc.)
We conduct allergy testing through a simple blood test or intradermal testing. Once we can narrow down the potential triggers based on antibodies found in the blood, we can pivot towards making a pet with allergies more comfortable.
Treatment of Allergies
Avoiding exposure to known allergens is the first step. We may also suggest:
- Antihistamines
- Oral and/or topical steroids
- Fatty acid supplements
- Food trial
- Immunotherapy
Allergies in dogs and cats can be successfully treated and supported, but unfortunately curing them of their symptoms is not possible. Every approach is tailored to the individual pet and may include:
- Managing year-round parasite prevention medication
- Washing pet bedding every few days
- Vacuuming daily
- Installing air filters around the home
- Soothing bath products can make pets more comfortable.
As your partner in pet health and wellness, we look forward to the opportunity to see and treat your pet. If you have questions about pet allergies, symptoms, and treatment, please call us at (616) 457‑9200.