By: Talandor Elias
Pet allergies can show up in ways that are very similar to human allergies. Symptoms such as itchy skin or paw licking, red, inflamed, or infected skin, “booty scoots”, ear infections or reddened ears, and respiratory issues, such as sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing all point a finger to pet allergies.
These can be caused by many of the same things that cause human allergies, too, such as pollen and other seasonal allergens, household plants that aren’t pet-friendly, insect bites or stings, mold, certain foods, medications, dust mites, some fabrics and dyes, harsh chemicals, and smoke fumes. That’s quite a list!
Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to help your pet feel better.
Insect Bites and Stings: Give your pet a flea & tick preventative on a regular basis, and during outdoor playtime, keep an eye out to make sure they aren’t making friends (or enemies) with a bee or wasp. Some pets can develop anaphylaxis from a sting or bite, in which case a fast trip to an emergency clinic is in order.
Household Cleaning Products and Chemicals: Many cleaning products contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach and ammonia. Keep your pet out of the area where you’re cleaning or working. Better yet, use natural cleaning products, such as vinegar and baking soda, or a commercial product, such as Seventh Generation, Ecos, Package Free, or Mrs. Meyers. You’ll be doing the environment and yourself a favor, too!
Pollen and Seasonal Allergens: Reducing time outdoors is the best way to keep seasonal allergies at a minimum. If that’s not possible, the next best thing is an over-the-counter antihistamine. Be sure to check with your vet before giving anything to your pet.
Pet Food Ingredients: Some pets can develop food allergies to certain ingredients, such as beef, chicken, dairy, and grains. If this is the case with your pet, you might notice some digestive upset, skin irritation, or ear infections. Talk to your vet about switching your pet’s diet to a special diet or a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet. Some pet owners also have success with making their own pet food. If you already know which foods your pet is allergic to, this can be a great option!
Smoke and Fumes: That incense and those candles you love might not love your pet! Smoke from tobacco, e-cigarettes, fires, incense, and candles, can irritate your pet’s respiratory system and cause an allergic reaction. Smokers should consider doing so outdoors and consider moderating your use of candles and incense if your pet is allergic or sensitive.
Medications: Just like their humans, pets can have any degree of allergic response to certain medications, including antibiotics, flea & tick preventives, and pain relievers. Keep a close eye on your pet for any problems after they start a new medication or treatment, and after they are vaccinated.
Mold and Dust Mites: Mold spores in the air can trigger allergic reactions in pets, causing sneezing, coughing, and itchiness. The presence of dust mites can be managed by frequent vacuuming, laundering bedding and pet beds weekly, and using air purifiers with HEPA filters throughout your home.