Allergies are often associated with springtime, because of its ample pollen count and abundant blooms. However, allergies in pets can be caused by several factors, including airborne substances to the ingredients in their food. Knowing the signs and conditions that indicate pet allergies can help you detect problems early and seek treatment from our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers team. To help, we explore seven common allergy signs in our four-legged friends.

1: Your pet has skin irritations

Skin irritation is one of the most prevalent allergy problems in cats and dogs. Your pet’s allergic reaction can manifest as itching, scratching, rubbing against furniture or carpets, and licking or chewing certain areas of their body excessively. Chronic itchiness results in redness, inflammation, and hot spots (i.e., raised, moist skin lesions). 

2: Your pet is losing their hair

Constantly biting and licking an area of the skin can lead to hair loss or bald spots on your pet. In other words, allergies cause itchiness, and hair loss results from your pet’s persistent scratching. If your pet has patches of thinning hair or baldness on their coat, especially where they frequently scratch or lick, that could be an allergic response. 

3: Your pet has recurrent ear infections

Allergies can compromise your pet’s ears by breaking down the skin barrier and increasing wax production in the ear canal, which can usher in ear infections. Such infections, which often follow an allergic reaction, are more common in dogs and will cause your dog to frequently shake their head, scratch at their ears, or emit a foul odor from their ears. Ear infections can be painful, so contact our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers team if you note these signs in your dog. 

4: Your pet has tummy troubles

Food and other forms of allergies can cause gastrointestinal (GI) problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, excess gas, and constipation. If your pet’s stool consistency, appetite, or overall digestive health changes, allergies may be indicated. However, GI problems can be linked to other more severe health issues, including organ dysfunction, parasites, or infectious diseases, so play it safe and first let our team pinpoint the reason for your pet’s digestive issues.

5: Your pet is sneezing and has runny eyes

Like humans, pets can experience respiratory reactions as a result of allergies, particularly airborne types. Your furry pal’s sneezing, coughing, wheezing, or breathing difficulties could denote allergies, but our team should investigate. A few sneezes here and there are likely of little concern, but chronic sneezing or respiratory distress should be considered urgent and our veterinary team should be contacted immediately. 

6: Your pet is licking and biting their paws

Excessive licking or chewing of the paws is another common pet allergy sign. Chronic licking can cause irritation and pain. Since allergens can accumulate on your pet’s paws when they walk outdoors or play in the yard, it’s important to gently clean their paws and coat with a warm washcloth once they come back inside. Call us if your pet is obsessively licking or chewing their paws. 

7: Your pet’s behavior has changed

In some cases, allergies in pets can lead to behavioral changes. Chronic discomfort can make your pet more irritable, restless, agitated, or aggressive. Some pets are inclined to hide or find seclusion when they experience pain, while others become more clingy. Pay attention to any behavioral changes, which could be caused by underlying allergies.

Knowing your pet’s allergy signs is essential, so you can provide timely care and relief, and you should consult with our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers veterinarian as quickly as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Then, we will develop a management plan that will help alleviate your pet’s allergies and ensure they lead a more comfortable life.