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Seasonal allergies, like hayfever, are all too common for humans to suffer from, but did you know that pets can struggle with them, too? During spring and summer, rising pollen levels can trigger uncomfortable symptoms in dogs, cats and other furry companions. While dogs are most commonly affected, any pet exposed to environmental allergens may experience irritation during warmer months.
Pollen from grass, trees and weeds is one of the biggest triggers of seasonal allergies in pets, with symptoms usually making an appearance between March and September. Warm, dry and windy weather can make allergies worse as pollen levels tend to be much higher. The tricky part is that pets often show different symptoms to humans, meaning owners may not immediately realise an allergy is the problem.
What causes seasonal allergies in pets?
Seasonal allergies are usually triggered by environmental allergens, including:
• Grass pollen(at its peak in mid-May to July)
• Tree pollen (at its peak in late March to mid-May)
• Weed pollen (at its peak in late June to September)
• Flower pollen (at its peak in mid-May to July)
• Mould spores
• Dust and airborne particles
When pets come into contact with these allergens, their immune system can overreact, leading to irritation and inflammation.
All dogs can be prone to seasonal allergies, but it’s more common in bulldogs and terriers due to their genetic makeup, so worth keeping an extra eye on those breeds.
Symptoms of hayfever and seasonal allergies in pets
Rather than suffering from blocked noses and headaches like humans, pets are more likely to develop skin irritation. Excessive itching is often one of the first signs that something is wrong.
Some of the most common symptoms of seasonal allergies in pets include:
• Scratching or licking excessively
• Red, flaky or sore skin
• Chewing paws
• Watery eyes or a runny nose
• Sneezing or coughing
• Ear irritation or frequent head shaking
In more severe cases, all that constant scratching can lead to skin infections or bald patches, so it’s always worth speaking to your vet if symptoms persist.
How you can help a pet with seasonal allergies
A lot like hayfever in humans, there’s no instant cure for seasonal allergies in pets, but there are plenty of ways you can help make them more comfortable during high pollen months.
Walk dogs during lower pollen times
For dogs, planning walks earlier in the morning or later in the evening may help reduce pollen exposure. Even keeping an eye on the pollen levels during weather forecasts can help you plan when’s best to take your pooch out.
Avoiding freshly cut grass or heavily grassy areas can also make a difference during peak allergy season. If you can’t help going through grassy areas, you should at least keep dogs on leads in particularly grassy areas to stop them rolling in it.
Wipe down paws and fur after walks
Pollen can easily cling to fur, paws and ears. Gently wiping pets down with dedicated pet grooming wipes after they’ve been outside, whether going for walkies or simply doing their business, can help stop allergens from spreading around the home and sitting on their skin.
Keep up with grooming
Regular brushing and baths can help remove pollen and soothe irritated skin. Some pets may also benefit from shampoos specifically designed for sensitive or itchy skin, like this Bugalugs one, but it’s always best to check with a vet first before trying new treatments.
Keep the home clean
Vacuuming regularly, washing pet bedding and keeping windows closed on high pollen days can help reduce indoor allergens. This can be especially helpful for pets who love to spend a lot of time relaxing indoors after walks or outdoor playtime.
Speak to your vet about treatment options
If symptoms are becoming difficult to manage, a vet may be able to recommend treatments such as medicated shampoos, creams, sprays or allergy testing. In some cases, prescription medication may be needed to control flare-ups.
Can I give my dog hayfever tablets?
Pet owners should never give pets human antihistamines or hayfever tablets without veterinary advice, as some medications can be unsafe for animals.
Why pet insurance matters
Seasonal allergies might sound minor at first, but ongoing skin irritation, ear infections and repeat vet visits can quickly become expensive. Some pets may need long-term treatment, prescription medication or allergy testing to keep symptoms under control.
Having pet insurance in place can help cover the cost of unexpected vet bills and give owners peace of mind if their pet becomes unwell. Depending on the policy, cover many include consultations, diagnostic tests and chronic conditions, helping pets get the support they need. You can compare cover with some of the UK’s leading pet insurance providers today via Mustard.co.uk.
Can pets grow out of seasonal allergies?
Some pets may experience mild symptoms that come and go with the seasons, while others can develop more serious allergies over time. Early treatment and good management can make a huge difference to a pet’s comfort and quality of life during the spring and summer.
Keeping an eye out for changes in behaviour, scratching or skin irritation during warmer months can help owners spot the signs early and get the right support for their furry companion.
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