How Seasonal Allergies Affect Pets — And What to Do About It

Written By: Meredith O’Connor 

Allergy sufferers know the plight of seasonal symptoms. A runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and dry, cracked skin; the list goes on. But these common allergy symptoms don’t just occur in humans. Sneezing, coughing, and rashes manifest in pets, too. 

For humans, medicine can ease irritation and congestion within 30 minutes. However, what do you do when it’s clear Fido or Kitty are experiencing seasonal allergies? We trust NutriPaw, a pet brand specializing in natural supplements (that parade as treats) made with the highest-quality ingredients out there. 

Before we get ahead of ourselves, here’s everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for seasonal allergies in pets. 

What Causes Allergies in Pets

So what is an allergy? For humans and animals, it’s a state of hyperactivity when the immune system goes into overdrive in response to a particular allergen. In short, it’s the body’s way of protecting itself. Normally, this is a good thing. In the case of allergies, the body’s reaction goes too far, causing symptoms like inflammation, redness, and itching. 

The causes vary, but the most prevalent irritants include dust mites, pollen, mold spores, flea saliva, food, and medication. The immune response is triggered when your pet inhales, has skin contact with, or eats something they’re allergic to. Some breeds are also more susceptible to reactions. In dogs, for example, Labrador Retrievers, West Highland White Terriers, Boxers, Dalmatians, and Shih Tzus are predisposed to allergen sensitivities.  

Read more: The Importance of Pet-Safe Cleaning Products

Allergy Symptoms to Look Out For 

For dogs and cats, signs of allergies are generally the same. Here’s what to look for. 

Itching. The face, ears, legs, and abdomen are popular spots for itching. When left untreated, frequent scratching can lead to scabbing, skin infection, and hair loss. 

Chewing or biting. Like itching, this behavior can cause open wounds and infection. 

Overgrooming. More common in cats, overgrooming can result in bald spots and further skin irritation. 

Consistent paw licking. A typical symptom in dogs, continual paw licking can lead to bacteria and yeast infections and additional inflammation.

Respiratory issues. Includes sneezing, coughing, and wheezing.

Ear infections. Some indicators of an ear infection are black or yellowish discharge, redness or inflammation, odor, loss of balance or coordination, rubbing the ear on the ground (dogs), pawing at the ear (cats), head shaking, or head tilting (cats).

Gastrointestinal troubles. Includes consistent vomiting and diarrhea.

At-Home Allergy Remedies 

Whether you’re a cat or dog parent, NutriPaw’s All-Itch Immunity Treats soothe your pet’s itchy, sensitive skin, nourish their coat, and boost their immune system. No more allergy-induced scratching, licking, or chewing. They also reduce ear dirt and grease that can build up when your furry bestie is having a reaction. 

If your pet needs immediate relief (and you’re waiting for your NutriPaw supplements to arrive) here are a few at-home remedies to ease their symptoms. 

Apple cider vinegar. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts water and apple cider vinegar, move hair so the skin is visible, and apply to affected areas. 

Vitamin E. A powerful antioxidant, vitamin E can be used to relieve discomfort from scratching. Simply open a capsule and rub on inflamed spots to calm the skin. 

Chamomile tea. Known for its healing properties, chamomile tea is effective at alleviating irritated paws. Boil a couple of tea bags in water, let the tea cool completely, and either spray on the affected paws or let them soak in a small bowl.  

Coconut oil. For hot spots where the fur is gone due to overgrooming, excessive licking, or a rash, use coconut oil similar to a lotion and rub it into the distressed skin. 

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