Seasonal Allergies in Pets!
Authored by James Horner
Seasonal allergies can affect pets just like they do humans. Just like humans the severity can range from mild and inconsequential to very severe with multiple secondary infections and pain.
There are an increasing number of pets being affected by allergies and so we have outlined some basic information about seasonal allergies in pets:
Quick Read
Seasonal allergies can affect both dogs and cats
New allergies can present to us at any age, but more commonly between the ages of 6 months and 5 years
Recurrent skin infections, ear infections, or paw infections are all common signs
Treatment falls into 3 categories:
Control the exposure to the allergen (avoid what is causing the itch)
Control the skin barrier health and microbiome
Control the body’s inflammatory reaction to the allergen
Tests greatly help tailor the treatment to your pet
What are Seasonal Allergies in Pets?
Seasonal allergies in pets are caused by an allergic reaction to certain environmental factors that occur at certain times of the year. Many pets can be allergic to things like pollen, mould, dust mites, and other environmental factors.
What are the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Pets?
The symptoms of seasonal allergies in pets can vary but are often skin related. Recurrent infections, notably of ears and paws are the early trigger signs. In young pets the seasonality can be difficult to identify, but in older pets with a few seasons under their belt, a pattern of disease can emerge. Allergies are not always present from birth and can develop. We tend to have pets presented for investigations between the ages of 6 months and 5 years old.
Common symptoms are as follows:
Itchy or irritated skin
Excessive scratching or licking
Red or inflamed skin
Hair loss or hot spots
Sneezing
Watery eyes
Runny nose
Ear infections
Tummy upset
How can Seasonal Allergies in Pets be Investigated?
If your pet is showing signs of seasonal allergies, it's important to take them to the vet for an examination.
When investigating the potential for any allergic skin disease, there are several approaches that can be taken. If the skin disease is severe, the vet may elect rescue treatment to alleviate the symptoms of the allergy, including treating any overt infection, before considering investigations.
Investigating skin disease can involve many testing processes including:
- Blood samples can be taken to check the circulating antibodies to common allergens
- Skin scrapes are used to make sure no deep mites are present causing the clinical signs
- Biopsy samples can be taken from the skin for microscopic lab analysis
- Intradermal skin testing can be done to assess the skin’s reaction to specific allergens
Not all tests may be employed in all cases, and as with all testing procedures the choice should be discussed in with your veterinarian.
How can Seasonal Allergies in Pets be Prevented?
Prevention is key when it comes to seasonal allergies in pets and knowing what your pet is allergic to is very helpful, so testing is never wrong!
If you do not know what your pet may be allergic to, but suspect a seasonal allergy, some good behaviours to carry out include:
Keeping your pet's environment clean, free of dust and mould.
Bathe your pet regularly to help remove allergens from their fur and skin. If directed, prescription shampoos may be required.
Vacuum and dust your home frequently to help remove allergens from the environment.
Keep your pet indoors during peak allergy season, or limit their outdoor exposure as much as possible.
Work with your vet to develop a proactive plan for managing your pet's allergies.
How are Allergies Treated?
Despite good control above, some allergies are severe enough to need medication to help keep your pet comfortable and free from pain. Any medication used should be discussed with your vet as they all carry potential side-effects.
In general skin control falls into three areas:
Control the exposure to the allergen (avoid what is causing the itch).
Knowing what is causing the disease helps plan how to avoid them. This requires investigations as discussed above.
Control the skin barrier health and microbiome
Skin supplements help improve the oils within the skin and better protect it from allergens.
Controlling the bacterial infections that may be present will require antibiotics.
Shampooing can be used to control yeast infections, and generally support the cleanliness of the pet.
Creams can be used on targeted areas.
Washes are often used for ears, these can be medicated or unmedicated to reduce the wax and infection build ups.
Control the body’s inflammatory reaction to the allergen
Tablet Medication
Apoquel is a regular medication. It works by blocking the skin prostaglandin responsible for the itch response. The targeted nature of the medication means there are fewer side effects experienced than other tablets
Prednisolone/Steroid treatment. Steroids used judiciously are very effective in controlling itching. Despite this, they also carry the most risk of side effects.
Ciclosporin (Atopica or others!) This tends to be held in reserve for refractory patients, or those not respnding to other treatment.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy involves exposing the pet to small amounts of the allergen over time, with the goal of desensitising them to the allergen and reducing their allergic reaction.
This treatment requires accurate knowledge of the allergens causing the inflammation and as a result requires the testing.
In the long run, immunotherapy is effective as it reduces the flares and other interventions. Whilst it is likely to feel more expensive initially, it saves money, stress and pain for your pet if it works well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seasonal allergies in pets can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if not properly managed. By recognising the symptoms, seeking veterinary care, and taking preventive measures, you can help your pet stay healthy and comfortable throughout the year.
If you have any concerns about your pet’s allergies you can book an appointment with us using the button below.