Paw’s Corner: Environmental allergies affect pets and people
Dear Paw’s Corner: The vet says my dog Wyatt has hay fever and should be kept inside the house when pollen counts are high. She also says my cat Snowball is allergic to something inside the house. Does that mean she has to stay outside? – Confused in Crystal Lake, IL
Dear Confused: Dealing with pet allergies can be frustrating and confusing. But don’t toss the cat outside yet.
Allergic reactions caused by pollen, dust and other things in the environment (known as atopic dermatitis) are more common in pets than many owners realize. But they can be managed with a veterinarian’s help.
Symptoms of hay fever and other environmental allergies can include frequent sneezing; irritated, runny, itchy eyes; a runny nose; scratching much more than usual; and even a rash on the paws or face. Dogs may frantically lick between their paws to ease the itching. Excess scratching can cause sores and hot spots on a pet’s skin, which can get infected.
Vets diagnose atopic dermatitis by its symptoms and common factors, like the time of year they occur. You can help with this by writing down everything you notice about your pet, including symptoms, behavior and their daily activities.
They’ll create a treatment plan based on the severity of symptoms. Steroids may be prescribed short-term to reduce inflammation. Antibiotics or antifungals will clear any secondary infections caused by scratching and chewing.
Longer-term treatment may include allergy shots (hyposensitization, a type of immunotherapy), medication to reduce immune response and omega-3 supplements. These can all take a few months to be effective, so your pets may need additional treatment for acute symptoms in the interim.
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