You know how irritating seasonal allergies can be, but did you know your pets can be just as bothered? While your allergies may cause sneezing, coughing and watery eyes, pets with seasonal allergies tend be itchy.
The culprits behind seasonal itch may include any environmental allergens that your pet is exposed to on walks or outdoor playtime. These allergens can also simply waft in through open windows in the spring, summer and fall months. Seasonal allergens may include:
If your pet experiences allergy symptoms year-round, food allergies are certainly a possibility, but they may still have environmental allergies. Year-round environmental allergens include:
Seasonal allergy symptoms
Seasonal allergy symptoms in cats and dogs are most common in the spring, summer and fall. As mentioned, the most common sign of an allergy in pets is itching. Your pet may scratch under their legs, rub their face and lick or chew on their paws.
Your veterinarian can use skin testing to identify the specific cause of your pet’s allergy; however, unlike food allergies, it’s inevitable that your pet will be exposed to it. Limiting exposure is nearly impossible, so your best option is to control the symptoms instead.
Seasonal allergies in cats and dogs can be frustrating for pet owners to manage, but luckily, several treatment options are available to soothe your pet’s itchy skin.
Anti-itch medications, such as Apoquel® Chewable (dogs only)
Your veterinarian can recommend one of several medications that relieve the itch, helping your dog stay comfortable through allergy season. Oclacitinib (Apoquel®) is an oral medication that’s among a new generation of highly effective anti-itch medications for dogs, blocking the itch right at its source, quickly and safely.
Another anti-itch medication labeled for dogs is lokivetmab (Cytopoint®). Cytopoint® is injectable, takes effect within one to three days and lasts for one to two months.
Immunosuppressing medications, such as Atopica™ (dogs and cats)
Another medical option is the immunosuppressant cyclosporine (Atopica™), which is available for both dogs and cats. Atopica™ is an oral medication that can take around a month for effects to be seen and is intended for long-term allergy control.
Veterinarian-approved shampoos
Frequent bathing with a hypoallergenic shampoo can be soothing to itchy, inflamed skin. Some shampoos are available over the counter, while others may require a prescription. Bathing also removes allergens from the skin and coat. Your VCA care team is happy to recommend a specific shampoo for your pet.
Topical ointments and mousses
Topical ointments aim to directly soothe the skin and reduce itchiness. Ingredients will vary but may include things like oatmeal, topical anesthetics and topical steroids. Your veterinarian can help you determine if a topical treatment is a good option for your pet’s seasonal allergies.
Allergy shots
In some cases, it may be possible to desensitize your pet to the offending allergens through a series of "allergy shots" or allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). To receive allergy shots, your pet would need to undergo testing with a dermatologist to determine what your pet is allergic to. Improvement can take six months to one year, so dogs taking allergy shots often receive other treatments in the meantime.
Omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are often used in combination with other treatments for dogs and cats with itchy skin due to seasonal allergies. These fatty acids are important components of cells and are thought to improve the skin barrier. Options include capsules and liquids. Get a specific dosing recommendation from your veterinarian.
Steroids
Steroids like prednisone or prednisolone might be prescribed short-term for severe allergy cases. Steroid use increases hunger, thirst and urination. Long-term steroid use may weaken the immune system, cause Cushing’s disease and contribute to diabetes. Because of the dangerous long-term effects of steroids, systemic steroids should only be used for short-term control of symptoms.
Antihistamines are often used, but they’re not as effective for dog and cat seasonal allergies compared to other treatments. You will also want to make sure that your dog is on regular parasite prevention that controls fleas and ticks to ensure these parasites don’t contribute to the itch. If your pet is showing signs of itching and discomfort, speak with your veterinary health care team. They can assess if the itch is from environmental allergies or another problem such as flea allergies, food allergies, skin infections or mites.
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