Allergies in Pets: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Just like us, our furry friends can suffer from allergies, and they can make life pretty miserable for your pet (and for you, watching them itch, scratch, and sneeze!).

Whether it’s the pollen in the air, what’s in their food bowl, or those pesky fleas, allergies in pets are more common than you might think. This time of year, Spring, is absolutely classic for skin and ear allergies to manifest in dogs and cats.

Let’s break down the three main types of pet allergies: environmental, food-related, and flea allergies—and what you can do to help.

🌸 1. Environmental Allergies (Atopy)

What causes them?

Environmental allergies are triggered by substances like pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or grasses—basically the same things that make humans sneeze in spring.

Common symptoms:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Red, inflamed skin
• Watery eyes or sneezing
• Ear infections
• Chewing paws

What you can do:

• Wipe your pet’s paws and coat after outdoor walks
• Use air purifiers indoors
• Bathe your pet regularly with vet-approved hypoallergenic shampoos
• If things become problematic then book in to see us – we can check and treat any infection, dispense anti-itching medication, allergy testing, or even immunotherapy (“allergy shots”)

🥩 2. Food Allergies

What causes them?

Food allergies often develop over time and are most commonly linked to proteins such as beef, chicken, dairy, or eggs. Grains are less commonly the cause than many assume.

Common symptoms:

• Itchy skin (especially ears, face, and feet)
• Chronic ear infections
• Digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea
• Poor coat condition

What you can do:

• Work with your vet to do an elimination diet (usually a special prescription diet for 8–12 weeks)
• Once the offending ingredient is found, avoid it in all treats and foods
• Be mindful of hidden ingredients and always read labels

🐜 3. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)

What causes it?

It’s not just the fleas—it’s the saliva from flea bites that triggers a reaction in sensitive pets. Even one bite can cause major itching and discomfort.

Common symptoms:

• Intense scratching, often around the base of the tail
• Red, inflamed skin or scabs
• Hair loss in affected areas
• Restlessness or constant grooming

What you can do:

• Keep up with year-round flea prevention for all pets in the home
• Treat your environment (home and yard) if you notice signs of fleas
• Your vet may recommend medicated shampoos, antibiotics or steroids for flare-ups – an appointment is needed to assess each individual case.

🩺 When to See the Vet

While mild allergies can sometimes be managed at home, persistent symptoms should always be evaluated by a veterinarian. Allergies are chronic and don’t usually go away, but with the right management, your pet can live a comfortable, happy life.

Here at Kelperland, we can all assess skin cases in the first instance. We’re delighted, though, to also have with us our vet Rosie, she is an ‘advanced practitioner’ in skin conditions and here to help with any really challenging cases.