As the seasons begin to change here in Canada, you may find yourself sneezing and sniffling more than usual. The warmer temperatures tend to bring on symptoms of seasonal allergies for many of us. Believe it or not... your pet may face the same annoying itchiness or sneezing. Pet seasonal allergies are a real thing, and just like us, your pet might not be thrilled about the pollen and mold lingering in the air. Fear not! We’ve made a quick guide to help you identify and manage your pet’s seasonal allergies.
What are pet seasonal allergies, anyway?
Seasonal allergies are a pain in the you know what. These symptoms are known as allergic rhinitis and are caused by pollen, mold, and dust. For us humans, this means sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. For our pets, symptoms can look a little different! If you’ve tried every food under the sun but they’re still itching and uncomfortable, it may be time to consider seasonal allergies.
Dogs and cats are prone to developing allergic reactions to airborne allergens like grass pollens, tree pollens, house dust mites, and mold. This is extra likely if they have long fur coats that trap the allergens and keep them lingering. The good news? Once you recognize the signs, there are steps you can take to help your pet feel their best.
What are signs that my pet might have seasonal allergies?
Let’s start with some telltale signs that your dog or cat might be dealing with those pesky seasonal allergies. You may notice constant licking, scratching, or chewing on their paws. Here are some more common symptoms:
- Itchy skin: Your pet may be scratching more than usual, especially around their ears, belly, and paws.
- Ear infections: Is your dog constantly shaking their head or scratching their ears like something’s stuck in there? Ear infections often indicate an allergic reaction, and chronic ear infections can be another sign.
- Red and watery eyes: Like their human pet owners, dogs and cats can get watery, red eyes when they’re allergic to something.
- Sneezing: If you’re hearing sneezing fits, they may not just be dramatic. This can be a pet’s response to seasonal allergens in the air around them.
- Chewing and licking paws: While some dogs just love licking their paws, excessive licking or chewing can sometimes indicate an allergy flare-up.
It’s important to note that symptoms of seasonal pet allergies can mimic many other health problems. So, if you notice any of these symptoms, discuss them with your vet to ensure you get a proper diagnosis!
Can my pet get tested for seasonal allergies?
They sure can! Just like us, allergy tests for pets can determine if specific allergens are triggering their symptoms. Your veterinarian might perform skin or blood tests to help figure out exactly what’s causing the frustrating allergic reactions. Choosing to test for allergies is completely up to you but can help you better understand whether your pet is allergic to mold, pollen, or something else entirely.
Before you get too excited about a list of allergens for your pet to avoid, remember that completely avoiding allergens is tricky. Finding a pollen-free zone to walk your dog or place your catio may prove difficult, but knowing the allergen culprits can help you manage the symptoms more effectively.
How can I help my pet with seasonal allergies?
They’re sneezing. They’re itchy. They’re scratching like a mad man. Now what? Here are some ways to help ease your pet’s discomfort:
- Regular baths: Bathing your pet with a hypoallergenic shampoo helps remove pollen and other allergens from their fur. Always be sure to use pet-safe products that won’t dry out their skin.
- Wipe their paws: If your pet has been outside, wipe their paws off with a damp cloth or hypoallergenic pet wipe. This helps remove any allergens they picked up from the ground mid-zoomies.
- Air purifiers: Air purifiers are an investment for your pets and you! They can reduce the airborne allergens in your home. Less pollen, less allergy flare-ups for your furry bestie (and maybe for you too)!
- Medications: When you discuss your pet’s itching and scratching with your vet, they may recommend antihistamines or other allergy medications. These will help relieve your pet’s symptoms.
- Boost their immune system: Some pet owners use supplements like probiotics or omega-3 fatty acids to help support their dog or cat’s immune system. Chat with your vet about whether supplements are a good option for your pet!
Does pet health insurance cover seasonal allergies?
Dealing with seasonal allergies is one thing, but when they lead to chronic ear infections or skin conditions, the costs can add up quickly. In Canada, vet bills for an ear infection treatment can range anywhere from $100-$500, depending on your clinic and the severity. This is where we step in to help out! At Petsecure, regardless of what coverage plan you choose, hereditary problems like allergies will be covered, as long as there were no signs or symptoms present prior to insuring your pet or during the waiting periods! This is why we recommend insuring your pet as soon as possible.
Interested in what else we cover? Get a free personalized quote today!