Late Summer Allergies in Pets: Signs Owners Should Watch For

The final weeks of summer can be difficult for pets with allergies.

Grasses, weeds, pollen, mold, fleas, and other environmental triggers may contribute to itching and skin irritation. Warm weather and moisture can also create conditions that allow certain skin and ear problems to become worse.

Although occasional scratching is normal, frequent or intense itching deserves attention.

Late Summer Allergies in Pets: Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs and Cats

Allergies may affect the skin, paws, ears, coat, and overall comfort of a pet.

Signs may include:

• Frequent scratching

• Paw licking or chewing

• Rubbing the face

• Red or inflamed skin

• Hair loss

• Scabs or sores

• Excessive grooming

• Recurring ear irritation

• Unusual skin odor

• Darkened or thickened skin

• Restlessness or difficulty sleeping

Dogs commonly show allergy symptoms through their skin. Cats may groom themselves excessively, sometimes causing thinning hair or bald areas.

Why Is My Pet So Itchy?

Environmental allergies are one possible cause, but they are not the only explanation.

Itching may also be associated with:

• Fleas

• Mites

• Bacterial infections

• Yeast infections

• Food sensitivities

• Contact irritation

• Other skin conditions

Several problems may occur at the same time. For example, an allergic pet may scratch enough to damage the skin, allowing a secondary infection to develop.

Determining the underlying cause is important because each condition may require a different treatment.

Do Not Overlook the Ears and Paws

Recurring ear problems can sometimes be related to allergies.

Watch for:

• Head shaking

• Scratching at the ears

• Redness

• Discharge

• Odor

• Sensitivity when the ears are touched

Paw licking is another common concern. Allergens can contact a pet’s feet while the animal walks through grass or other outdoor areas.

Gently wiping the paws after outdoor activity may remove some material from the surface, but persistent licking should be evaluated. Excessive chewing can cause inflammation, infection, and painful sores.

Continue Flea Prevention

Even pets that spend most of their time indoors can be exposed to fleas.

A pet with flea sensitivity may experience significant irritation from only a small number of bites. Fleas can also be difficult to find, especially when a pet is grooming frequently.

Talk with your veterinarian about an appropriate flea prevention plan for every pet in the household.

Do not use a product intended for another species. Certain flea treatments made for dogs can be dangerous to cats.

Be Careful With Home Treatments

Many pet owners understandably want to provide relief as quickly as possible. However, using the wrong product can make a skin problem worse or delay proper treatment.

Do not give human allergy medication unless your veterinarian has provided specific instructions. Some products contain multiple ingredients that may not be safe for pets. The appropriate medication and dosage can also depend on your pet’s weight, medical history, symptoms, and current prescriptions.

Avoid applying essential oils, creams, or medicated products without veterinary guidance. Pets may lick these substances from their skin.

When Should Your Pet Be Examined?

Schedule an examination if your pet has:

• Persistent or intense itching

• Open sores or bleeding

• Hair loss

• Skin odor or discharge

• Recurring ear problems

• Swelling of the face

• Changes in appetite or energy

• Symptoms that interfere with sleep

• A sudden or severe reaction

Facial swelling, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse may indicate an emergency and require immediate veterinary care.

Finding Relief for Your Pet

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Your veterinarian may recommend testing, parasite prevention, topical care, prescription medication, dietary evaluation, or another treatment plan.

Allergy management is often individualized. A plan that works for one pet may not be appropriate for another.

Oliver Mobile Veterinary Service can examine your pet in the comfort of your home and help determine why your pet is itching. Contact us to schedule an appointment if late summer allergies are affecting your pet’s comfort.