Pet allergies can be frustrating for both pets and their owners. Dogs and cats with allergies may scratch constantly, lick their paws, develop skin irritation, or deal with repeated ear infections.

Need help with your pet’s allergies? Learn more about our Cat & Dog Allergy Treatment services at Covina Animal Hospital.

What are the signs of allergies in pets?

Allergies do not always look the same in every pet, but common symptoms include itching, chewing, licking, hair loss, red skin, and recurring ear or skin infections.

What are the most common causes of itching?

Not every itchy pet has allergies. Chronic itching in pets is commonly caused by either external parasites or allergies. Fleas and mites are two common parasite-related causes, while food and environmental triggers are also frequent contributors.

What types of allergies can pets have?

Flea Allergy

Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the most common causes of itchy skin in dogs. Even if an owner does not see fleas, a small number of bites may still trigger a strong reaction. Because of that, consistent flea control is an important part of treatment for many itchy pets.

Food Allergy

Some pets develop allergies to ingredients in their food, including proteins, carbohydrates, preservatives, or dyes. Food allergies are typically diagnosed through a diet trial and follow-up evaluation.

Environmental Allergy

Environmental allergies, also called atopic dermatitis, can be triggered by pollen, dust mites, and other airborne allergens. Pets with this type of allergy often show skin and ear symptoms rather than the respiratory symptoms people usually associate with seasonal allergies.

Can Pet Allergies Be Cured?

Pet allergies are usually a lifelong issue rather than something that can be permanently cured. In most cases, the goal is to control symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and keep the pet comfortable over time.

How Are Allergies Treated?

Treatment depends on the pet and the underlying cause, but common approaches may include:

  • Flea prevention
  • Treating bacterial or yeast infections
  • Oral anti-itch medication
  • Cytopoint injections
  • Medicated bathing and skin support products
  • Ear care for pets prone to infections
  • Omega-3 fatty acid supplements
  • Steroids in some cases
  • Allergen-specific immunotherapy

When Should You Bring Your Pet to the Vet?

If your pet has frequent itching, skin irritation, ear infections, or symptoms that keep returning, it is a good idea to have them evaluated. Allergy symptoms can overlap with parasites, infections, and other skin conditions, so a veterinary exam is the best place to start.

If your dog or cat is dealing with ongoing itching or allergy-related skin problems, contact Covina Animal Hospital to schedule an exam.

Looking for allergy care for your pet? Visit our Cat & Dog Allergy Treatment page to learn how we diagnose and manage allergies.