HEALTH EDITION
Not just an itch Dr Bridget Adcock, veterinary surgeon and owner of Highgate Vets in Willingham, discusses summer allergies in pets A s we enjoy the warmer weather across Cambridgeshire, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors with our the pollen carried home on the coat and skin. Rinsing paws after walks, wiping down coats, washing bedding regularly and avoiding long grass during periods of high pollen can all make a difference. Of course, not every itchy pet has
pets. But while summer brings longer walks and days out, it can also mark the start of allergy season for many dogs and cats. Most people are familiar with hay fever in humans, but pets can suffer from seasonal allergies too. The difference is that, rather than causing sneezing and watery eyes, allergies in dogs and cats are far more likely to affect the skin. These allergies develop when the immune system overreacts to substances in the environment that are normally harmless, including grass and tree pollen, weeds, mould spores and even house dust mites. The result is inflammation that can leave pets persistently itchy and uncomfortable. One of the most common signs in dogs is excessive scratching. You may notice your dog licking or chewing at their paws, rubbing their face along furniture or carpets, scratching their ears or developing red, inflamed skin. Some dogs experience recurrent ear infections, while others develop hot spots: painful areas of irritated skin that can appear suddenly and deteriorate quickly.
an allergy. Fleas remain one of the most common causes of skin irritation, and a single flea bite can trigger discomfort in sensitive animals. Skin infections, parasites and other conditions can produce similar symptoms, making an accurate diagnosis important. Maintaining effective year-round parasite prevention remains an essential part of protecting your pet’s skin health. If your pet is persistently scratching, licking or showing signs of discomfort, it is well worth seeking veterinary advice. Modern veterinary medicine provides a range of effective treatment options, from medications that quickly relieve itching to long-term management plans tailored to individual pets. Early treatment can often prevent minor irritation from developing into more serious skin infections, while significantly improving a pet’s comfort and quality of life. With the right diagnosis and treatment, most pets with seasonal allergies continue to enjoy everything the season has to offer – without the constant itch.
Cats can also be affected, although the signs are often more subtle. Over- grooming, hair loss, skin irritation and recurrent skin infections may all indicate an underlying allergy. Summer poses a particular challenge because grass pollen levels are often at their highest. Dogs that enjoy rolling in long grass or exploring fields are exposed to allergens throughout the day. While it isn’t possible to eliminate that exposure entirely, simple measures can help reduce UNDER THE WEATHER Although seasonal allergies can affect both cats and dogs, the signs often present themselves in different ways
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