Mar 15, 2024 | By, For Pet's Sake
Sniffle-free spring: Prepare for pet allergy season
The sun is shining and flowers are blooming, which means your pet’s desire for more play time and longer walks is at an all-time high. Like their human companions, springtime means more allergies and more colds, which, if left untreated, can lead to prolonged and more serious illnesses.
Keep spring fever at bay by preparing for allergy season and recognizing common symptoms to keep your pets happy and healthy!
Pet allergy prevention
Allergies can happen at any time of the year, but as an extra precaution, owners can follow these tips to keep their pets as healthy as possible.
- Avoid allergens (as much as you can): While there is no completely escaping pollen, mold, mildew, and dust during the springtime, you can limit your pet’s exposure. Pollen is more active during the day, so longer evening walks (and avoiding tall grass and plants) will help keep your pet free of allergies.
- Bathe your pet regularly: Regular baths and grooming keep pollen and other germs off their fur and out of your home. Use high-quality shampoos and conditioners, and make sure your pet’s coat is detangled with adequate brushing.
- Keep your home clean: Did we mention pollen already? A tidy household keeps both us and our pets free of sneezing and runny noses. Wash and dry your pet’s blankets, rugs, and beds regularly, and keep areas free of dust.
- Monitor behavior changes: Playful puppies or clever old cats—only you know what normal behavior for your favorite furry friend is. If your pet is acting unusually, they may be having an allergic reaction to something. If the issue persists, take them to a veterinarian.
- Get your pet an allergy test: There are two allergy tests pets can take to determine specific allergies. Intradermal tests are conducted by veterinarians and require shaving, anesthesia, and injections to test reactions to allergens. The second test, RAST (radioallergosorbent testing), requires a blood sample, though it is not as accurate as an intradermal test.
- Get your pet an allergy shot: Consider immunotherapy, where your pet is injected with small amounts of allergens over time to build tolerance.
Symptoms of pet allergies
Pets can show several signs of allergies, including:
- Frequent licking of the paws and genital areas
- Red or inflamed skin
- Red or infected eyes
- Vomiting
- Excessive scratching or chewing of the skin
- Ear infections
- Diarrhea
- Shedding
- Coughing
If your pet is showing any of the following symptoms, book an appointment with the veterinarian to rule out any serious medical conditions. Your pet may get prescribed medication or supplements to relieve allergy symptoms. Otherwise, know that allergies are common throughout the year and usually harmless, and keeping your pet and their living space clean will have their sinuses clear, coats shiny, and tails wagging!
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insight to giving your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.
