Allergies in Pets –

By Dr. Maria Krenz, DVM – ZimmVet

Imagine that you have burning eyes, itchy skin, or hair loss, but without the ability to talk. Just like people, many pets suffer from allergies. If you have owned a pet with allergies, you know the common signs: skin redness, scratching, licking, chewing at the skin, ear and skin infections, hair loss, excessive paw licking among others. Pet allergies are a medical condition that requires lifelong management to control the symptoms. Pets that are affected only during certain times of the year, such as the Fall, need to start treatment prior to when allergy signs begin for best management.

Types of Allergies
Atopic Dermatitis, also known as Atopy, is the term for inhaled seasonal pet allergies from sources such as pollens and molds in the environment. Pets that itch and scratch only during one season during the year have Atopic Dermatitis. Many pets have multiple things they are allergic to causing them to have allergy symptoms year round. Weeds such as ragweed is the most common trigger for allergies in the fall. Fall allergies last until we have a couple hard frosts.

Start Treating Now
Pets that suffer from fall allergies need to start treatment to manage the symptoms usually mid-July. It is best to work with your veterinarian to create a plan that is best for your pet. Common treatments include the following.

1. Antihistamines: Benadryl is a common medication used to control allergies. Often people do not give a high enough dose to help the pet, it also must be given at least 2-3 times per day during the entire allergy season. Some pets will get drowsy on the medication. Other antihistamines include cetirizine, hydroxyzine, and others.
2. Shampoos: Bathing a pet can help to remove allergens that are on the surface of the skin. Often, pets with allergies have a poor skin barrier, which allows more allergens to get into the body. Bathing is usually needed at least every 2-3 days. Some shampoos may contain anti-itch medications, and antibiotic or antifungal medications to control secondary infection.
3. Topical Sprays: For pets that are itching in one general location on their body, a topical spray that includes a hydrocortisone and antibiotic can help.
4. Omega Fatty Acid Supplements: These supplements are a natural anti-inflammatory agent, and can help reduce itching and help with general skin health.
5. Dermaquin: This product is a natural supplement that comes in a form as a soft chew. Dermaquin helps strengthen the skin barrier which decreases a pet’s allergic response.
6. Apoquel: This is a very effective allergy medication. Apoquel directly affects the molecule that causes itch and inflammation in dogs. Apoquel is a tablet medication that is given daily.
7. Cytopoint: This allergy treatment is an injection. The effects last about 4-8 weeks. Its mechanism is interrupting the pathway that causes itch and inflammation in dogs.
8. Other allergy treatments include immunotherapy and Atopica. These treatments need to be given all year round to be effective.
   Infections also cause Itch

Allergies can be a very frustrating condition for pet owners. Your veterinarian is here to help find the best treatment for your pet. Often, pets with allergies develop secondary bacterial and fungal skin infections that need to be treated with oral and topical medication. Ear infections are also common secondary condition that would need prescription medication. For tough cases, your normal veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary dermatologist (skin specialist).

Disclaimer: This written content is meant to be educational and is not medical advice. Always consult a veterinarian about medical advice for your pet.