You walk outside and see it: a coating of yellow covering your car. It’s allergy season in many parts of the country, and it’s not only humans who are affected. Dogs and cats can also suffer from unpleasant allergy symptoms that can worsen the more time they spend outdoors.
Is your pet suffering from seasonal allergies? Here are some signs that may indicate your pet is suffering from allergies:
- Scratching or Chewing on Their Skin
- Red, Inflamed Skin
- Constantly Licking or Chewing Their Paws
- More Shedding Than Normal
- Scooting Across the Floor or Licking the Anal Area
- Red, Waxy Ears
- Coughing or Wheezing
If you notice these symptoms, see your vet to verify that a seasonal allergy is to blame. If it is, that doesn’t mean you’ll have to keep your pet indoors—there are ways to treat allergy symptoms that allow your dog or cat to continue to enjoy his or her normal activities without suffering from the above issues.
Preventing Allergy Symptoms
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Here are some ways to minimize your pet’s allergy symptoms.
Don’t Miss a Dose of Flea and Tick Prevention
Fleas are a leading cause of skin irritation. Don’t miss a dose of your pet’s flea medication—especially as the weather warms up.
Wash Bedding Regularly
Your pet brings pollen and other allergens in from outdoors. Washing bedding regularly reduces the amounts of these irritants in your home.
Wipe Paws When Your Pet Comes Inside
After your pet spends time romping outside, take a minute to wipe his paws and undercoat to remove pollen.
Bathe Regularly
While rinsing off or bathing your dog after every outdoor jaunt isn’t practical for most pet owners, bathing as often as possible during high-pollen season will help to reduce symptoms.
Allergy Supplements
Supplements, such as NaturVet Aller-911, provide antioxidants that help to boost your pet’s immune system.
Treating Allergy Symptoms
If prevention efforts don’t eliminate allergy symptoms, there are ways to make your dog more comfortable.
Anti-Itch Creams
Topical creams provide fast, temporary relief for itchy skin.
OTC Allergy Medications
OTC allergy-relief medications, such as Benadryl, are another option for relieving your pet’s allergy symptoms.
Note: Never use topical creams or OTC medications without discussing the use of these products with your vet first.
Prescription Allergy Medications
If other solutions don’t work, your vet may prescribe prescription medications, such as Apoquel, that provide the relief your pet needs.
Allivet makes it easy and affordable to help your pet deal with allergy symptoms. We offer the same prescription medications you get from the vet—and we offer a price match guarantee, so you’ll always get the lowest price.
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