Spring Allergies in Dogs and Cats: What Pet Owners Should Know

For many of us, spring is a welcome change after winter. For allergy-prone pets, however, the new season can also mean the return of itchy skin and irritated ears.

As grasses begin growing and pollen levels increase across New South Wales, dogs and cats may come into contact with more environmental allergens.

Dust, pollen, grasses, spores and other airborne particles can trigger an immune response in sensitive pets.

Knowing what spring allergies look like can help you recognise a flare-up early and take steps to keep your pet more comfortable.

Pets can react to allergens differently from humans.

Although occasional sneezing can happen, skin and ear symptoms tend to be much more common in dogs and cats.

Some of the signs you may notice include the following.

1. Frequent Itching and Paw Licking

A pet with allergies may spend far more time scratching than usual.

Dogs may chew at their feet or repeatedly lick between their toes, while cats may groom particular areas excessively.

You might also see your pet rubbing their face or body against furniture in an attempt to relieve the itch.

2. Thinning Coat or Bald Patches

Repeated scratching and grooming can eventually affect the coat.

Hair may become thin in certain areas, or you may notice patches where your pet has licked or chewed so much that the fur has disappeared.

Any unexplained hair loss, especially when paired with itching, should be investigated.

3. Redness and Skin Lesions

Allergic skin can become red, inflamed and sensitive.

Continued scratching can also damage the skin barrier, allowing bacteria or yeast to cause secondary infections.

This may result in sores, scabs, unpleasant smells or areas that feel moist or sticky.

4. Itchy or Inflamed Ears

Ear problems are another common feature in allergy-prone pets.

Watch for head shaking, ear scratching, redness, discharge or a noticeable smell coming from the ears.

If your dog or cat repeatedly develops ear infections, allergies may be one factor contributing to the problem.

5. Respiratory Symptoms

Although less typical, airborne allergens can occasionally cause respiratory signs.

A New South Wales spring can expose pets to a range of environmental triggers, especially those spending plenty of time outside.

Fortunately, there are practical things you can do to reduce exposure and manage mild irritation.

1. Bathe and Groom Your Pet Regularly

Pollen and dust can settle on your pet’s skin and coat after they have been outdoors.

Regular brushing can help remove debris, while bathing may wash away allergens sitting on the skin.

Ask your veterinarian which shampoo is appropriate, particularly if your pet already has sensitive or inflamed skin.

2. Clean Their Paws After Walks

Your pet’s paws come into direct contact with grass, soil, pollen and other outdoor allergens.

Wiping their paws after walks may help prevent these irritants from remaining on the skin.

Pay particular attention to the spaces between the toes if your pet frequently licks their feet.

3. Keep Flea Control Up to Date

Not every itchy pet is reacting to pollen.

Fleas are another very common cause of skin irritation, and pets with flea allergies can develop severe itching after very limited exposure.

Consistent flea prevention helps remove one potential trigger and makes ongoing skin problems easier to assess.

4. Limit Allergens Indoors

Environmental allergens can easily make their way inside on clothing, shoes, open windows and your pet’s coat.

To reduce their build-up:

• wash pet bedding regularly

• vacuum carpets and upholstery

• mop floors

• clean commonly used pet areas

• consider closing windows during particularly high pollen periods.

Reducing the overall allergen load may help some sensitive pets.

5. Avoid Giving Human Medication Without Advice

Never assume an over-the-counter allergy product is safe for your dog or cat.

Some medications may be inappropriate, interact with other treatments or contain ingredients that are dangerous for pets.

Speak with your veterinarian before giving antihistamines, supplements or any other medication.

6. Investigating Specific Allergy Triggers

If your pet experiences frequent or severe flare-ups, your veterinarian may discuss allergy testing.

Testing can sometimes help identify the environmental allergens responsible for your pet’s symptoms.

Immunotherapy may then be an option for certain patients, with the aim of gradually reducing their sensitivity to those triggers.

7. Veterinary Medication

Some pets need additional treatment to control inflammation and itching.

Depending on their symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend prescription medications to relieve discomfort or treat secondary skin and ear infections.

The right treatment plan will depend on the individual pet.

8. Food Allergies May Also Need Investigation

Although springtime flare-ups are often linked to environmental allergens, food sensitivities can produce similar skin and ear symptoms.

If food allergy is suspected, your veterinarian may recommend a strict elimination diet to determine whether certain ingredients are contributing.

A small amount of scratching from time to time is normal.

Persistent itching, however, should not simply be accepted as part of spring.

Book a veterinary visit if you notice:

• frequent or intense scratching

• repeated paw licking or chewing

• inflamed or broken skin

• bald patches

• recurrent ear problems

• an unpleasant smell coming from the skin or ears

• symptoms that are interfering with your pet’s sleep or normal activities.

The sooner irritated skin is addressed, the easier it may be to prevent secondary infections and ongoing discomfort.

With the right combination of preventative care, environmental management and veterinary treatment, many pets with seasonal allergies can enjoy spring much more comfortably.

If your dog or cat is showing signs of seasonal allergies, contact our team for advice or to arrange an appointment.