Does your dog or cat itch more in the spring, summer, or fall? You may notice more scratching, licking the paws, or problems with the skin and ears. These may be seasonal allergies caused by something your pet is coming in contact with outside. For some pets, the problems only last a few weeks. Others may have symptoms for several months.

When I work with pets with allergies, I do not look at the itching alone. I also look at the diet, digestive health, supplements, environment, and any other health problems that may be contributing to the problem.

Signs of Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies can affect pets in different ways. Some pets itch occasionally, while others scratch and lick constantly. Some common signs include:

• Itchy skin 
• Licking or chewing the paws 
• Red or irritated skin 
• Scratching the ears 
• Recurring ear problems 
• Rubbing the face 
• Watery eyes 
• Sneezing 
• Hair loss from scratching or licking 
• Hot spots 
• Skin infections

What Can Trigger Seasonal Allergies?

Many things your pet comes in contact with outside can trigger seasonal allergies. The time of year and where you live can also make a difference.

Some common triggers include:

• Grass pollen
• Tree pollen 
• Weed pollen 
• Ragweed 
• Mold 
• Mildew 
• Dust 

The Difference Between Seasonal and Food Allergies

Seasonal and food allergies can cause many of the same problems, which can make it difficult to know what is bothering your pet.

If your pet has seasonal allergies, you may notice the same problems coming back around the same time every year. Food allergies are more likely to cause problems throughout the year.

Some pets can have both seasonal and food allergies. This is why I look closely at what your pet is eating, when the symptoms started, and whether the problems come and go during different times of the year.

How Diet May Help

What you feed is important when dealing with allergies. A poor-quality diet can make it harder for the body to deal with allergy problems. I recommend foods made with high-quality animal protein and without a lot of fillers, artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors. To learn more about what to look for in a high-quality pet food, read my article, “How to Read a Pet Food Label.”

If I suspect the food is adding to the problem, I usually recommend changing the protein, trying a different food, or using a homemade diet. With a homemade diet, you control the ingredients.

Supplements for Seasonal Allergies

Certain supplements may be helpful for pets with seasonal allergies, but I do not recommend giving the same supplements to every pet.

Depending on the pet, I may recommend:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Often reduce skin inflammation and soothe scratching.
• Probiotics: May help support a healthy immune response.
• Quercetin: May help with your pet's response to environmental allergens.
• Supplements for skin and coat support 
• Other vitamins and minerals when needed 

The supplements I recommend depend on your pet's diet, symptoms, medications, and overall health. 

Reducing Seasonal Allergens Around Your Pet

You cannot completely avoid pollen, grass, and other outdoor allergens, but there are things you can do to reduce how much your pet brings into the house.

Some things that may help include:

• Wipe your pet's paws and legs after being outside 
• Wash bedding regularly 
• Vacuum frequently 
• Keep your pet off freshly cut grass when possible 
• Avoid walking through areas with tall weeds 
• Bathe your pet as needed to remove pollen from the skin and coat 
• Keep windows closed when pollen counts are high 

When to See Your Veterinarian

Itching is not always caused by seasonal allergies. Fleas, food allergies, skin infections, parasites, or another health problem may be the cause.

If your pet is constantly scratching, has raw or irritated skin, or is having problems with the ears, have your veterinarian check your pet.

Once you know what you are dealing with, you can make better decisions about the diet, supplements, and changes that may help.

An Individualized Approach to Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are not the same for every pet. During a consultation, I look at what your pet is eating, when the itching started, what time of year it happens, what medications and supplements your pet is taking, and any other health problems. I use this information to develop a nutritional and holistic program based on your pet's individual needs.

If your dog or cat continues to struggle with seasonal allergies and you would like help with diet, supplements, and natural support, contact For Pet Health to schedule a consultation.