Health

Dealing with your pet’s allergies

Just like humans, pets can suffer from allergies.

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Allergies are no fun for anyone, and that includes your pet. The three most common triggers of pet allergies are fleas, airborne environmental irritants, and certain foods.1 Just a few flea bites can trigger intense scratching, especially in a pet that’s sensitive. Some allergies can be triggered by insects, certain substances, or even their diet.

Woman sitting outdoors with multiple dogs on leashes in an urban park setting

Outdoor allergens¹

If your pet only shows symptoms in spring, summer, or fall, he may be allergic to something he encounters outdoors, such as:

Fleas
Insect bites (spiders, flies, wasps, etc.)
Pollen from trees, grass, flowers, and weeds

Indoor allergens^1,2,3

When your pet’s symptoms continue year-round, it could be something he’s encountering indoors. Although most animals find these common substances harmless, they can trigger an allergic reaction in others:

Dust and dust mites
Mold spores
Mildew
Dander

Fragrances
Cigarette smoke
Household cleaning products

Potential food allergens⁴

Your pet can develop food allergies at any age. An elimination diet, in which certain foods are removed and then gradually reintroduced, can help identify what’s causing the problems. Elimination diets should always be supervised by your veterinarian. And remember, treats, table scraps and supplements count, too. Once the symptoms cease, the veterinarian will advise you how to reintroduce former foods to see which may have caused the allergic reaction. Your veterinarian may recommend specially formulated food for your pet that’s designed to address food allergies. Potential food allergens could include:

Beef
Chicken
Fish
Pork

Corn
Wheat
Soy

Symptoms of pet allergies⁵

Your pet may experience respiratory and digestive symptoms as her body tries to rid itself of allergens, but many pet allergies manifest as skin irritation. Signs include:

Itchy, red, moist, or scabbed skin
Constant licking
Itchy ears and ear infections
Paw chewing/swollen paws
Runny eyes

Sneezing
Itchy back or base of the tail (most commonly from a flea allergy)
Vomiting
Diarrhea

Dogs with allergies will often lick and scratch a part of their body until they develop a “hot spot.” Without treatment, skin infections can develop and may cause hair loss. Cats suffer most of the same symptoms. Additionally, some may be allergic to their litter (switching to a dust-free alternative may solve that issue). Asthmatic cats may cough and wheeze in response to irritants.

How pet allergies are diagnosed⁵

Allergies occur in all breeds and the symptoms typically appear after a cat or dog reaches six months of age.

Your veterinarian may be able to determine the source of your pet’s allergic reaction from a physical examination and detailed history, and may recommend a skin or blood test or a specific elimination diet to find out what’s causing the allergic response.

If the initial treatment doesn’t help to manage your pet’s irritated skin, a visit to a veterinary dermatologist may be in order. As with humans, an allergy specialist may conduct a patch test, in which small amounts of specific potential allergens are applied to your pet’s skin to see which (if any) cause a reaction.

Treating a pet allergy¹

Because some irritating substances are difficult or impossible to eliminate, your veterinarian can recommend ways to control an allergic reaction. Common treatment options include:

Cortisone or steroids
Itch-blocking medications
Antihistamines
Flea prevention products
Allergy shots, injectable itch control treatments

Hypoallergenic or medicated shampoos and conditioners, since bathing may help relieve itching and remove environmental irritants from your dog’s skin
Omega-3 supplements to help suppress itching

Veterinarian-supplied medicated spray
Pet allergen-blocker wipes to use on paws when outdoor dogs and cats come indoors
Specially formulated pet food to address food allergies

Some allergies can be managed but not cured, so it’s essential to bring your pet in for check-ups to assess how he responds to treatment and adjust it as needed so that your pet can stay as comfortable as possible.

References

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