What to Do About Your Pet’s Seasonal Allergies

Just like some people get the sniffles from springtime and summer pollen or mold spores in the autumn, dogs and cats can suffer from seasonal allergies, too. If you notice your pet experiencing symptoms of allergies during a particular time of the year, then your dog or cat might have seasonal allergies.

Types of Allergies in Pets

Seasonal allergies that affect pets are those that occur seasonally, and the usual culprits are different types of pollens or molds that are only abundant during certain times of the year. Pets can also have allergies to foods, fleas, and other allergens found in the environment like dust, smoke, or fragrances.

Signs and Symptoms of Allergies in Pets

Symptoms of seasonal allergies in pets tend to look a little different than they do in people. The most common signs and symptoms of pet allergies include:

• Incessant itching, scratching, licking, and biting at skin
• Head shaking
• Frequent ear and/or skin infections
• Foul-smelling ears and/or skin
• Rashes, hot spots, and scabbing
• Hair loss and bald spots
• Red, swollen paws
• Red, swollen mouth or face area
• Coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing (seek immediate veterinary attention)
• Discharge from the eyes and nose
• Red eyes

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms of allergies in your cat or dog, we encourage you to schedule an appointment right away.

Treatments for Pet Allergies

If your pet suffers from seasonal allergies, there are a variety of ways you can mitigate your pet’s symptoms and help them find relief.

Avoid your pet’s allergens. While you can’t keep your pet indoors for an entire season, you can wipe down their paws and schedule regular grooming appointments to keep their bodies free from allergens. A variety of veterinary treatments can also soothe allergy symptoms such as medicated baths and antihistamine medications.

Schedule an Allergy Consultation With Our Mobile Veterinary Clinic

If you’ve noticed signs of seasonal allergies or suspect your pet might be suffering from another type of allergy, we encourage you to schedule an allergy exam with one of our veterinarians. Our mobile veterinary clinic will come right to your doorstep to talk with you about your pet’s symptoms, your observations, and how we can start the diagnostic process to determine the best course of treatment.

To learn more about pet allergies or to schedule your pet’s appointment with Capital Home Veterinary Care, we welcome you to contact us today.