Allergies aren’t just a human problem—our furry companions can suffer from them too. Whether it’s constant itching, ear infections, or stomach upsets, allergies in pets often go unnoticed or mistaken for other issues. 

The good news? With the right information and timely care, you can help your pet feel relief and live a healthier, happier life.

Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs & Cats 

Watch for these red flags:

✅ Skin & Coat Symptoms 

• Constant scratching, licking, or chewing (especially paws, ears, belly, and groin) 
• Red, inflamed, or flaky skin 
• Hair loss or bald patches 
• Chronic ear infections or head shaking 

✅ Digestive Symptoms 

• Vomiting or diarrhea 
• Gurgling stomach or flatulence 
• Poor appetite or weight loss 

✅ Respiratory Symptoms 

• Sneezing or coughing 
• Runny eyes or nose 
• Wheezing (rare but possible) 

Common Types of Pet Allergies 

1. Environmental Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)

Triggered by pollen, dust mites, mold, or grasses.
Seasonal patterns are common, especially in spring or monsoon. 

2. Food Allergies

Caused by certain proteins (like beef, chicken, dairy, or soy).
Can lead to chronic digestive issues and skin inflammation. 

3. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

Even a single flea bite can trigger severe reactions.
Common symptoms include extreme itchiness near the tail and back. 

4. Contact Allergies

Result from touching irritating materials (e.g., certain shampoos, cleaning agents, plastics). 

How Vets Diagnose Pet Allergies 

• Physical exam and symptom history 
• Elimination diets (for food allergies) 
• Skin scrapings or blood tests 
• Allergy testing (in-clinic or specialist referral) 

What You Can Do: Treatment & Prevention 

For Environmental Allergies

• Wipe paws after walks 
• Use air purifiers or allergy-proof bedding 
• Prescribed antihistamines, steroids, or Apoquel under vet supervision 
• Immunotherapy shots or oral drops for long-term cases 

For Food Allergies 

• Elimination diet (usually 8–12 weeks on a limited-ingredient or hydrolyzed protein food) 
• Transition to hypoallergenic or prescription diet 

For Flea Allergies 

• Year-round flea prevention (oral or topical) 
• Regular grooming and flea-proofing your home 

For Contact Allergies 

• Switch to hypoallergenic grooming products 
• Limit exposure to known irritants 
• Use vet-approved soothing shampoos (like oatmeal or aloe-based) 

At-Home Care Tips 

• Regular grooming and skin checks 
• Use pet-safe wipes to clean paws after outdoor time 
• Maintain clean bedding, bowls, and surroundings 
• Don’t self-medicate with human allergy drugs unless advised by a vet 

Final Woof (or Meow) 

Allergies may be common, but they don’t have to control your pet’s life. By spotting the symptoms early, working with your vet, and tailoring your pet’s environment and diet, you can minimize discomfort and avoid complications. 

Your pet can’t tell you what’s wrong—but their body always speaks. You just have to learn how to listen.