Tips for pets and seasonal allergies

DELMARVA – Whether it’s tree or grass pollen, or another allergen, millions of people suffer from seasonal allergies every year.

Our furry friends are no exception.

Dr. Marianne Bailey with the Queenstown Veterinary Hospital says some of the most common symptoms in dogs includes paw licking and ear scratching. She adds that they might also shake their head a lot or experience skin irritation.

When it comes to cats, they might experience irritation around their chin or ears, or lick the hair off their belly. They can also suffer from asthma, even if they don’t go outside, caused by opening windows and dirty air filters.

“I had a cat that came in that has been coughing a lot and it got really bad when we got these cooler evenings but nicer days. We had a conversation about medications to help but also keeping the windows closed, checking their air filters to see what kind of air filters they have, make sure they’re rated high for pollens and allergens.”

Besides changing your home’s air filters more frequently this time of year, Dr. Bailey also says it’s a good idea to rinse off your pup’s feet after a walk. This can help get rid of any pollens or other allegers that they may otherwise lick off.

If your pet is experiencing skin lesions, or if you have a cat that’s coughing, Dr. Bailey says you should probably seek veterinary care.

“Some pets have long term allergies and maybe we need to do allergy testing and start allergy medications like people take.”