Allergies aren’t just a problem for people. Dogs and cats can also suffer from environmental pet allergies. While you can pop an antihistamine, it’s little harder for your furry friends to fight off the symptoms. To help them cope, The Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI, shares a few tips for protecting your pet with allergies.

5 Ways to Help Your Allergic Pet

1. Know the Signs

Pets suffering from allergies are constantly itchy. Dogs will have hot spots or red areas, and sometimes hair loss. While cats sneeze more in reaction to pollen, those with true environmental allergies will also experience hair loss and open sores. 

2. Monitor Pollen & Household Allergies

Wipe your pet’s paws off before they come inside, and give them a weekly cool-water bath to reduce hot spots and remove pollen. But don’t forget about household allergens. Your pet can be just as allergic to dust and dust mites. Keep a clean home to reduce symptoms, and freeze their plush toys to kill mites.

3. Consult the Vet

Dogs and cats can take over the counter allergy medicines, but check with your vet first. Dosages are dependent on your pet’s size; a dachshund will need a smaller dose than a Great Dane. Keep in mind that many allergy medicines will make your pet drowsy. Topical solutions are also effective. If your pet’s allergies are more than just seasonal, your vet can conduct an intradermal skin test to determine the source of the allergies.

4. Maintain Flea & Tick Meds

Fleas and ticks are already a pain, but they become even more so when your pet is allergic to them. A monthly flea and tick treatment should be part of your pet’s regimen. If you don’t like the topical versions, there are green alternatives you can discuss with your vet.

5. Change Food

If your pet continues to show signs of allergies, but pollen season is over, their diet may be an issue. Pets can be allergic to different proteins, grains, and preservatives. For dogs, vets suggest a food trial to determine allergies. Food will be limited to a novel protein such as duck or venison with a vegetable, and other proteins and treats will be gradually reintroduced. For cats, the addition of omega-3 fatty acids can help keep skin healthy and improve their immune barrier.

If you want to get to the bottom of your furry family member’s pet allergies, visit Oahu’s pet hospital, The Pet Clinic. Give them a call at (808) 946-5096 to schedule an appointment. Visit their website for more information on their services, including laser therapy, dentistry, and puppy and kitten pediatric care.