Seasonal allergies are difficult to manage in dogs and cats, especially if you don’t know what the allergens are. While you can get your dog or cat tested, airborne allergens are especially difficult to narrow down. Keep reading to learn how to manage, prevent, and treat allergies and bring relief.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Dealing with allergies in dogs and cats can be complex. Multiple allergens affect various organ systems such as the nervous, immune, and skin systems. Certain breeds, like Shar-Peis, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, and Labrador Retrievers in dogs, and Domestic Shorthairs, Devon Rexes, and Abyssinians in cats, have a genetic predisposition to allergies.
Seasonal allergies are triggered by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, insect bites, and plant allergens, which can also be carried indoors on fur or clothing.
It’s crucial to monitor pets for signs of seasonal allergies, including:
- Excessive grooming
- Itching
- Scratching
- Watery eyes
- Paw chewing
- Skin irritation
- Sneezing
- Ear infections
- Respiratory problems
- Excessive shedding
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Ocular problems like conjunctivitis
How Can You Prevent and Manage Seasonal Allergies in Dogs and Cats?
While there is no cure for allergies in dogs and cats, there are steps you can take to prevent and manage them.
- Regular grooming practices. A key to preventing and alleviating allergies in dogs and cats is regular grooming. This includes bathing frequently with appropriate products with regular brushing. HICC Pet® Freshening Grooming Glove Wipes with fermented coconut is an excellent choice for maintenance between baths. They remove dander, moisturize the skin, and clean allergens from the fur.
- Allergen avoidance. Prevent allergies in dogs and cats by limiting outdoor exposure during peak allergy times. Maintain a clean environment with regular vacuuming, washing bedding, and using an air purifier.
- Diet and nutrition. Dietary changes and supplements, such as hypoallergenic diets or omega-3 fatty acids, can support the immune system and alleviate allergy symptoms.
- Veterinary care. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for preventing allergies, allowing for monitoring of symptoms, and discussing treatment options like allergy testing, shots, or medication.
- Flea prevention. Ensure comfort during peak allergy season with flea prevention. Fleas can exacerbate allergies with their saliva.
- Skin Sprays. Certain skin sprays such as HICC Pet® Skin Care Spray with Hypochlorous Acid can relieve itching and potentially heal hotspots with its natural healing properties. For extreme allergies, the 2x Power Spray can provide even further relief.
Conclusion
Seasonal allergies in dogs and cats are complex and can make them miserable if not properly prevented or managed. While it’s difficult to pinpoint certain types of allergens like airborne ones, by implementing proper preventative measures like regular grooming, veterinary care, and diet and nutrition, dogs and cats can live a better life.
The post How to Prevent Seasonal Allergies in Dogs and Cats appeared first on Animal Wellness Magazine.