How Springtime Allergies Can Affect Your Pet

By Denise Maher for Vetstreet

Sniffly, scratchy, wheezy... and grumpy. That essentially sums up what spring can mean for a lot of allergy sufferers across the country.

But what about our pets? Can four-legged family members feel the effects of springtime allergens in the same way that we do?

More from Vetstreet:
5 Ways to Control Allergies in Your Pet
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We spoke to a specialist in pet dermatology, Dr. Heather Peikes, V.M.D., of Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners in New York City, to get the skinny on pets and seasonal allergies.

Q. Are pets affected by springtime allergies in the same way as people?
A. Dr. Heather Peikes: "Animals are susceptible to the same airborne allergens -- pollen, trees, grasses, mold and insects -- that we are. They're also affected by similar uncomfortable symptoms, such as a runny nose, watery eyes, itchiness, coughing and disturbed sleep. The most severe conditions usually involve secondary bacterial or yeast infections that can cause extreme itchiness, which often leads to excessive scratching, licking, chewing and rubbing. Some pets get to the point where they're so uncomfortable that they can't play or rest properly."

Q. How can I tell if my pet's watery eyes and habitual scratching are caused by allergies and not by something else?
A. "Dramatic symptoms always require an evaluation by a veterinarian, but there are clues that can point to allergic reactions. Observe your pet's behavior. Is it normal? Overgrooming, for example, is often dismissed as stress or nerves, when it's really related to allergies. Also, is there a pattern? Do symptoms worsen during the spring or fall, possibly when your own allergies are problematic?

Certain signs warrant an immediate visit to your vet. These include a foul odor (persistent smells may be caused by a buildup of bacteria or yeast on the body, inside the ears, on the lips or in between folds of skin), hair loss and behavioral changes, such as if your pet is simply not playful or not acting like himself."

Q. What can a vet do to treat the symptoms of pet allergies?
A. "First, there are steps that you can take to reduce exposure to allergens and head off reactions. Wipe down your dog or cat -- especially the paws -- after he comes in from being outside.

To limit the amount of airborne particles that get into your house, take off your own shoes right after you walk through the door. Keep windows closed, bathe your dog or cat with a mild cleanser frequently, and run a HEPA air filter around the clock.

The vet or specialist may recommend the use of antihistamines, but it's very important to note that these should not be administered without medical supervision. Depending on existing conditions, formulations and dosage, they can be toxic and can even cause death in pets. Never use OTC medications without consulting a vet.

Other prescription treatments include omega-3 fatty acids (for the anti-inflammatory effect) and probiotics. Like some people, pets with allergies may need 'allergy shots' or regular treatment with a vaccine. Treatment with topical or oral steroids, or another systemic immunosuppressant, may also be options. Consult with your veterinarian for the best course of treatment."

For more on pet health, click here.

Flickr photo by shannon abigail simbulan.

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Comments

[wrightrichard007]

01:26 PM on 11/27/2012

Thanks for this article. I don't think most people consider that our pets get allergies as well. Especially in Orlando, allergy specialty care is needed for pets considering the moist climate. I hope everyone takes the proper precautions to help their pets be happy and healthy! Thanks again.

[Stephen Hauer]

02:16 PM on 05/01/2012

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[Dr. Tiffany Bierer]

03:49 PM on 04/17/2012

Thanks for the article. A lot of people don't realize that pets can suffer from environmental allergies. In Nashville, we have high levels of environmental allergens and I know of many dogs with seasonal allergies. Even my cat's eyes get a little red and puffy when the pollen counts are high!

[Angle Jones]

03:54 AM on 04/16/2012

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[Robert Lee Harrington]

05:56 PM on 04/16/2012

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[nikki717]

07:44 AM on 04/17/2012

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[rugbymom75]

10:19 PM on 04/15/2012

I have an English Mastiff and because of the shape and depth of their ears, they are prone to yeast infections. I have dramatically cut down the number of ear infections by ridding his diet of wheat and grains.

[fanofariana]

07:13 PM on 04/15/2012

Well if friends have allergies too bad. Don't come to my house. I have a dog and 3 cats. My house not theirs.

[lewfay2]

07:06 PM on 04/15/2012

we have a 10 month old pup shes had all her shots and been fixed because we need no more pets .We was told to give our LADYBOOTS Benedryl 3 in the morning and at night if shes is itching really bad.We bath her as drs said i or 2 times month because shes stays indoors at night and goes out to play in our yard.DRs also has put boots on antibiotic because when a dog bites at thier skin and its starts to get infection ,that can be preey nasty if not taken care of .wE lOVE OUR bOOTS AND HOPE THIS MIGHT HELP IF YOUR DOG IS ITCHING BAD N ALSO OUR 3 CATS CARRY SINUSES IN THIER BODY NOYT THIER HEAD WE COMB AND FLEA OUR ANIMALS EVERY MONTH AS NEEDED BUT OUR CATS STAYS INDOORS.

[Stephen Hauer]

02:19 PM on 05/01/2012

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[AgainstAnimalAbuse]

05:38 PM on 04/15/2012

A shampoo that helps is Douxo Chlorhexidine PS by Sogeval.

[lewfay2]

07:08 PM on 04/15/2012

THANKS FOR THE TIP HOPE THAT PUPPY IN THE PICTURE IS YOURS AWESOME VERY PRETTY DOG

[AgainstAnimalAbuse]

10:08 AM on 04/16/2012

Order from entirelypets.com, much less than vet dermatologists will charge. Thanks for the compliment, he was a great dog ever, actually he did not know he was a dog, he tried to make words with his mouth like he was imitating me and that was the funniest thing. The irony is that as much as he loved people, his death was caused by a greedy and incompetent board certified vet.

[fanofariana]

07:10 PM on 04/15/2012

Where do I get it? I've noticed my poodle and also a Jack Russel of a friend developed allergies.Tks.

[AgainstAnimalAbuse]

10:04 AM on 04/16/2012

Get it from entirelypets.com, a 16 ounce bottle is $23; your vet dermatologist will charge way more (have been there).