Seasonal Allergies In Dogs And Cats

Spring on Long Island brings blooming flowers and warmer days. But for many pets, it also triggers seasonal allergies that can make life miserable. At Long Island Pet Services, we see it every year; dogs scratching nonstop during walks and cats grooming obsessively at home. Understanding these allergies helps pet owners keep their furry family members comfortable, active, and happy through pollen season.

Common Symptoms in Dogs and Cats

Seasonal allergies often show up as intense itching, especially on paws, ears, belly, and armpits. Dogs might chew their feet raw or lick until bald patches form, while cats overgroom to create hot spots or hair loss. Other signs include red, inflamed skin, watery or red eyes, frequent sneezing, runny noses, and recurring ear infections. On Long Island, tree pollen peaks in April, grass follows in May, and mold spores thrive in humid coastal air which turning routine walks into itch-fests.

Why Spring Worsens Allergies Here

Our region’s mix of ocean breezes and suburban lawns means higher pollen counts than many areas. Pets pick up allergens on fur and paws during outdoor time, then track them indoors. Breeds like Labs, Bulldogs, and Golden Retrievers are prone in dogs; Siamese and Bengals in cats. Early detection prevents misery, so watch for changes after the first warm spells.

Getting a Proper Diagnosis

Skip guessing, head to your vet for allergy testing. Skin scrapes, blood tests, or intradermal exams identify triggers like pollen, grasses, or weeds. Rule out fleas or food allergies first, as they mimic symptoms. Long Island Pet Services often spots early signs during visits and alerts owners promptly.

Effective Treatment Options

Vets prescribe antihistamines like Benadryl or Zyrtec for mild relief, Apoquel or Cytopoint injections for quick itch control in dogs, and Atopica for cats. Steroids offer fast help but short-term use only. Long-term, custom immunotherapy shots desensitize pets over 6-12 months. Medicated shampoos, ear cleaners, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements soothe skin naturally.

Everyday Home Remedies

Wipe pets down after walks with damp cloths or hypoallergenic wipes to remove pollen. Bathe weekly with oatmeal-based shampoos, use HEPA air purifiers, and launder bedding often. Feed anti-inflammatory diets rich in fish oil. Trim yard grass short and avoid midday walks when pollen soars. During our dog walking services, we note symptoms and adjust paces to minimize exposure.

Prevention for a Smoother Season

Start flea/tick preventives early, as bites worsen allergies. Keep indoor humidity low with dehumidifiers. Annual vet checkups catch issues before spring hits. For traveling owners, our pet sitting services includes allergy monitoring, ensuring meds are given and symptoms tracked.

When Allergies Turn Serious

Seek emergency care for hives, swelling, breathing trouble, or vomiting. Untreated allergies can lead to infections, so act fast.

Hire The Long Island Pet Professionals Today!

Long Island Pet Services is your partner through every season. Reliable walks and sits mean less stress for allergy-prone pets. We offer a wide variety of services including dog walking, drop-in visits, overnight stays, pet taxi, and more! Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 516-247-6976. We look forward to hearing from you! Be sure to check out our social media pages too! Follow us on our Facebook, Instagram, and X!