Although seasonal allergies in dogs and cats are common, they don't usually manifest in pets the same way they do in humans. We humans will sneeze, cough, and get congested, but dogs and cats tend to get skin problems, even when they inhale allergens.
The most common form of allergy in dogs and cats is called atopy. Atopy is often seasonal. If a pet is allergic to ragweed, symptoms occur in the fall. Pets who are allergic to spring tree pollen will show signs in April and May. If a pet is allergic to dust mites, the symptoms may be most dramatic in the winter, when more time is spent inside. Signs of atopy include:
- Chewing at the feet
- Constant licking of the flank (side) and groin area
- Rubbing of the face
- Inflamed ears or recurrent ear infections
- Recurrent hot spots in dogs and pinpoint facial scabbing in cats
- Asthma-like wheezing and respiratory problems is more likely in cats
Cats:
There are four known types of allergies in the cat: contact, flea, food, and inhalant. Each of these has some common expressions in cats, and each has some unique features.
Contact - flea collars or to types of bedding
Flea - irritation in response to flea bites
Food – General cat allergens are soy, wheat gluten, corn, and fish. They can be allergic to just about anything though.
Inhalant - Cats may be allergic to all of the same inhaled allergens that affect us.
