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MARCH NEWSLETTER

Spring & Summer Allergies in Pets: What You Need to Know!

As the weather warms up in Nebraska, flowers bloom, trees bud, and grass grows—but unfortunately, that also means seasonal allergies are in full swing! Just like us, our pets can suffer from allergies caused by pollen, mold, and even fleas. If you’ve noticed your furry friend scratching, licking their paws, or shaking their head, they might be dealing with seasonal allergies.

Common Causes of Seasonal Allergies

During the spring and summer months, environmental allergens are everywhere. The most common culprits include:

• Pollen – Trees, grasses, and weeds release pollen that can cause allergic reactions in pets.
• Mold Spores – With increased humidity and rain, mold growth spikes, leading to exposure.
• Fleas – Warmer temperatures mean more fleas! Some pets are allergic to flea saliva, making even one bite unbearable.
• Dust & Environmental Irritants – As we spend more time outdoors, so do our pets, exposing them to various allergens.

Signs Your Pet May Have Allergies

Seasonal allergies in pets often show up in ways that may not be immediately obvious. Watch for these signs:

• Excessive itching or scratching
• Licking or chewing paws
• Red, inflamed skin
• Ear infections or head shaking
• Watery eyes or sneezing
• Hair loss or hot spots

Left untreated, allergies can lead to secondary skin infections. When pets scratch excessively, they can damage their skin, allowing bacteria or yeast to grow. This can result in even more itching, redness, and sometimes an unpleasant odor. If you notice sores or a musty smell, it’s time to see your vet!

Seasonal vs. Food Allergies

It’s easy to confuse seasonal allergies with food allergies since both can cause itching and skin issues. However, food allergies tend to cause year-round symptoms and in addition to itching, often include digestive problems like vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet’s symptoms appear only during certain times of the year, seasonal allergies are the likely culprit.

Treatment Options for Seasonal Allergies

The good news is that there are many ways to help your pet feel better! Depending on the severity of their allergies, treatment options may include:

• Cytopoint – An injectable treatment that provides relief for up to 4-8 weeks by targeting itch at the source.
• Apoquel – A daily oral medication that helps control itching and inflammation.
• Steroids – While not a long-term solution, corticosteroid use can provide rapid relief for severe allergies.
• Supplements – Some pets benefit from omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation.
• Other supportive care: Regular baths with hypoallergenic or medicated shampoos can help remove allergens from your pet’s coat. Disinfectant mousse and sprays may needed to help treat secondary skin infections, and in severe cases, oral antibiotics may be necessary.  Flea prevention is also crucial to avoid flea allergy dermatitis.

If you think your pet may be suffering from seasonal allergies, don’t wait until they’re miserable—schedule an appointment with us! With the right treatment, your pet can enjoy the warmer months just as much as you do.

Happy Spring & Summer from all of us at Parks Veterinary!