Every year, countless people experience seasonal allergies. Unfortunately, they’re not alone. Pets experience allergies as well. Though it can be harder for pet owners to tell what’s bothering their furry friends, there are some signs you can look out for and steps you can take to minimize pet allergy symptoms.

How Can You Tell if Your Pet Has Allergies?

Like humans, some pets display obvious symptoms. Agitated cats and dogs will scratch and bite endlessly at themselves. As a result of constant itching, infections are common and lead to sores, scabs, and hair loss. Certain allergens can also cause sneezing, vomiting, and diarrhea, though these are not as common. Reactions often heavily affect the ears. Pay extra attention to any inflammation, discharge, hair loss, or extreme itching in that area. Even with all of these symptoms, knowing for certain that allergies caused them can be difficult.

What Could Be the Cause?

There are a few common pet allergy sources. In their environment, pollen, mold, dust mites, grass, or spores may be causing your pet’s discomfort. Known as atopy, this type of allergy is generally seasonal, though it can become year-round. Rashes and hot spots (inflamed skin) can sometimes be attributed to food allergies. These are harder to pinpoint, since the allergy is usually limited to a single ingredient, and pet foods tend to be mixtures. Flea saliva is another top allergen. The effects of flea bites are much worse for allergic animals, as they lead to inflammation and excessive itchiness.

How Can You Help Them?

If you start noticing symptoms, take your pet to a veterinary dermatologist immediately. Specialists can run tests, diagnose, and treat animals for their specific allergies. Beyond any medications the vet may give you, it’s important to do your part. Keep the areas your pet’s favorite places clean, and take particular care to use non-toxic cleaning agents. Wash your pet and their bed regularly with products safe for sensitive skin. For flea allergies, prevention is your best option. Start up a flea control program to protect your pets. If they have a food allergy, switch up their diet to brands that don’t contain that ingredient, or ask the pet dermatologist for recommendations.

At Veterinary Dermatology Services of Cincinnati, OH, your cat or dog can finally get the relief they need. With comprehensive pet allergy consulting and testing, these experts can pinpoint what’s causing your pet’s distress. They focus entirely on animal skin care and are dedicated to helping you treat and manage your pet’s dermatological conditions. For more information about this clinic serving, Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southern Indiana, visit them online. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 489-4644.