Fall Allergies in Pets

Most pets enjoy a good neck scratching from time to time, but if your cat or dog is spending more time than usual clawing and gnawing at his own skin, he could be feeling the effects of seasonal allergies. Animals can be sensitive to the same allergens that plague people, but there are plenty of ways to help. 

At Volunteer Veterinary Hospital, we want your pets to be comfortable in their own skin, and that includes finding ways to ease their discomfort from seasonal allergies. Read on to learn more about seasonal allergies and how they impact pet health.

Common Allergy Triggers in Tennessee

Some allergens hit their stride in the spring, others peak in the fall, and some make their presence known year round. The following allergens are the ones that commonly wreak havoc on pet health:

• Mold spores 
• Grass
• Tree pollen
• Dust mites
• Dander
• Flea saliva
• Household irritants like fragrances

Recognizing Allergies in Pets

People tend to associate signs of allergies with sneezing attacks, scratchy throats, and watery eyes, but pets typically wear their symptoms on their sleeves—or rather, their skin. 

Be on the lookout for these telltale signs that your pet is reacting to an allergen:

• Red, irritated paws
• Excessive chewing and biting at their skin or paws
• Chronic ear infections
• Bald spots
• Hair loss around face and muzzle
• Wheezing, sneezing, or coughing
• Nasal discharge
• Skin inflammation

Treating Allergies in Pets

All that itching and scratching can cause a skin infection that requires a prescription antibiotic, so step one is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. An accurate diagnosis will also help us rule out other medical conditions that could be the cause of your pet’s discomfort. Bloodwork may be needed to pinpoint the allergen. 

Pet allergy treatment options include:

• Formulated allergy shots
• Year-round parasite prevention
• Antihistamines
• Oral medications
• A specialized diet

What You Can Do At Home

In addition to medical treatments for seasonal allergies in pets, there are changes you can make to your pet’s environment and other ways you can help at home, including:

• Be diligent about grooming, including frequent baths using pet-specific products containing oatmeal to soothe your pet’s skin.

• Use a grooming wipe or damp towel to wipe off your cat’s or dog’s paws and fur after they’ve spent time outdoors. 
• Limit your pet’s time outdoors on days when pollen counts are high.
• Add high-quality omega-3 supplements to your pet’s daily regimen. We are happy to make recommendations for you.

• Vacuum often, and wash your pet’s bedding frequently.
• Avoid using air fresheners and oil diffusers around pets.
• Use fragrance-free, pet-friendly household cleaning products.

Prioritize Pet Health All Year Long

Please contact us at (865) 609-0311 if your pet is displaying symptoms of seasonal allergies or anytime you suspect that your pet is under the weather. We’re here to help!