Has your pet been scratching excessively, sneezing, or experiencing skin irritations? These signs could be more than just a passing itch—they might indicate your pet has allergies. Cats and dogs can develop allergies to various substances and parasites in their environment. By learning to recognize your pets’ allergy signs before their condition becomes severe, you can ensure your furry pal gets the relief and comfort they need. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team explains pets’ allergies and how we diagnose and treat your four-legged friend’s signs. 

Itchy-scratchy: Allergy signs in pets

Most pets with allergies develop skin conditions, but while these conditions are prominent, allergies can affect pets in several ways. The caveat is that pets’ allergy signs sometimes overlap with other medical conditions. So, our Santa Monica Veterinary Group veterinarian should examine your pet to determine whether they have an allergy. Pets with allergies often display the following signs:

  • Scratching and chewing — If your pet is constantly scratching, biting, or licking their skin and paws, they likely have an allergy. Be on the lookout for skin redness, inflammation, or hotspots—moist skin lesions.
  • Sneezing and watery eyes — Persistent sneezing, or watery or red eyes, especially with no apparent cause, such as a respiratory infection, could indicate an allergic reaction. Airborne substances often cause respiratory issues in pets with allergies. 
  • Ear infections — Allergies can lead to ear inflammation, resulting in discomfort and recurrent infections. Watch out for excessive head shaking or a foul odor emanating from your pet’s ears. An ear infection can cause your pet pain and discomfort, and damage the fragile inner ear, so always contact our team if you suspect your pet has an ear infection. 
  • Digestive issues — Pets with allergies might experience gastrointestinal (GI) problems, including decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea. These signs can be triggered by food allergies or sensitivities to environmental factors.
  • Skin irritation — Allergic reactions often manifest as skin problems such as rashes, hair loss, hives, or excessive dandruff. Persistent itching and redness should prompt a visit to our veterinarian to prevent your pet from developing infections and more severe skin problems. 

Identifying the itch: Pet allergy types

If you suspect your pet has an allergy, our Santa Monica Veterinary Group veterinarian will conduct a thorough examination and testing to pinpoint the exact allergens affecting your pet. The following are common culprits that most often cause pets’ allergies:

  • Environmental allergies — Pollen, dust mites, dander, mold, and specific plants and grasses can cause seasonal or airborne allergies. 
  • Food allergies — Some pets are allergic to food ingredients, including beef, chicken, wheat, corn, and dairy. Food allergies comprise only 10% of allergies diagnosed in pets, but our team should investigate if your furry friend is experiencing digestive upset and exhibiting other allergy signs.
  • Flea allergies — The most common pet allergy type—flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)—is caused by an allergic reaction to a protein in flea saliva, which leads to intense itching and skin issues.
  • Contact allergies — Many cats and dogs are sensitive to household chemicals, including fabric dyes, cleaners, and laundry soap. Contact allergies often manifest as skin redness, inflammation, and rashes. 

Managing pet allergy signs

Once our team has identified the allergens affecting your pet, we can take steps to manage your furry pal’s signs effectively. Depending on your pet’s allergy type, we may recommend:

  • Medications — Our veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines, corticosteroids, or antibiotics to alleviate your pet’s discomfort and minimize their allergy signs.
  • Parasite control — If your pet has FAD, our team will start them on parasite preventive medications. Sometimes, professional flea extermination in your home is necessary to eradicate remaining fleas and their eggs. 
  • Immunotherapy — Also known as allergy shots, immunotherapy gradually introduces your pet’s allergens to their immune system. Over time, their immune system’s response to these allergens is reduced, minimizing your pet’s allergic reaction signs.
  • Nutrition — Switching to hypoallergenic pet food or a limited-ingredient diet can help address food allergies and sensitivities.
  • Topical treatments — Medicated shampoos, sprays, or creams can relieve pets’ skin irritation and itchiness.
  • Allergen avoidance — Minimize your pet’s exposure to their allergen by vacuuming your home often, using air purifiers, and regularly laundering bedding. Frequently bathe your pet using a hypoallergenic shampoo and wipe off their paws and skin with a damp washcloth after they’ve been outdoors to remove pollen. 

Recognizing your pet’s allergy signs is the first step toward providing them with relief and comfort. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group can develop an effective allergy management plan tailored to your pet’s needs. Schedule your pet’s exam and allergy testing so we can pinpoint the allergens that are causing your four-legged friend discomfort and provide them with relief.