Seasonal Allergies in Pets

As we move into the Spring and Summer season, pets that are susceptible to seasonal allergies will see a rise in symptoms and your pet may start displaying symptoms of this type of allergy. 

It’s important to know what symptoms to look for and what you should do to help your pet if they are affected this season. 

 

What are seasonal allergies?

 

Seasonal allergies are a type of Atopy, or environmental allergy caused by airborne substances such as pollen or molds but may also be caused by house dust mites and animal dander. 

Although most common in dogs, it can also affect cats. 

 

If my pet is affected what can I look out for? 

 

The most common symptom of seasonal allergies is itching and this is usually seen around the face, feet and lower chest and belly. Other symptoms that may occur can be ‘hot spots’ and other skin infections and ear infections. 

 

IF YOU BELIEVE YOUR PET IS SUFFERING FROM SEASONAL ALLERGY, CALL US TO BOOK A CONSULTATION WITH YOUR SUMMER HILL VILLAGE VET: (02) 9797 2555https://summerhillvillagevet.com/

 

How can I help my pet’s symptoms?

 

Although seasonal allergies are a life-long condition, there are ways that the symptoms can be reduced and managed from home to alleviate some discomfort and these can include:

 

  • Removing the source of the allergen from the environment as much as possible.
  • If the atopy is relatively mild (i.e occasional itching in pollen season) you can use ‘Elizabethan’ collars and T-shirts and socks to reduce the irritation by preventing your pet from scratching or biting itself. 
  • Anti-itch therapy, including the use of medication and medicated shampoo and conditioners. 

 

I think my pet may be affected by seasonal allergies, what should I do and what can I expect?

 

We recommend getting your pet checked if you believe they may be affected by seasonal allergies and we’ll be able to confirm this through a process of elimination. First, we’ll want to rule out any other causes including fleas, mites, lice, bacterial, yeast infections and food allergies. 

We’ll also need to know a detailed history about your pet’s itching and we may need to perform some blood testing.

 

If your pet does get diagnosed with seasonal allergies, we’ll be able to point you in the right direction with treatment and management advice. 

 

This season we recommend keeping an eye on your pet for any unusual itching, biting or changes to their skin. If you notice a difference and believe it may be allergies, give us a call and we can book you in for a consultation to have your pet checked.