Pet allergies and prevention

Like people, dogs and cats can have allergic reactions to different things. Many allergies cause similar signs, such as itchy skin, spots, hair loss or an upset stomach, so it can be hard to tell what is causing the problem. Knowing the common triggers helps you and your vet work it out.

The list below covers the most common allergies, but it is not complete. If you are worried about your pet, contact your vet.

Flea allergy

Flea allergy is one of the most common allergies in dogs and cats. It is a reaction to substances in flea saliva. Your pet doesn't need a heavy flea infestation to react: a single bite can trigger itching in an allergic animal.

Common signs include:

• severe itching;
• scabs on the skin;
• hair loss.

Regular flea control, as recommended by your vet, for every pet in the home is the best way to prevent flea allergy flare-ups.

Atopy

Atopy is an allergy to things in the environment, such as pollens, dust mites and moulds. It can be seasonal, for example when pollen levels are high in spring and summer, or it can happen all year round if the trigger is something like dust mites in the home.

Common signs include:

• red, inflamed ears and ear infections;
• licking around the groin;
• chewing the paws;
• rubbing the face;
• hot spots (sore, inflamed patches of skin).

Some pets may also wheeze or have breathing problems. If your pet is wheezing or having trouble breathing, contact your vet straight away.

Food allergy

Food allergy is less common than other allergies, and it is often confused with a food intolerance or an upset stomach.

Common signs include:

• soft stools or more frequent bowel movements;
• itching around the trunk, bottom or face;
• skin infections;
• yeast infections.

Food allergies are usually diagnosed with a strict elimination diet planned with your vet. This means feeding a special diet for several weeks and then reintroducing foods in a controlled way. Keeping a diary of what your pet eats and any reactions can help, but don't start cutting out foods without talking to your vet first.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a less well-known allergy. It is a reaction to something your pet's skin touches, such as some carpets, plastics or cleaning products. It is not seasonal: an allergic pet reacts each time they come into contact with the trigger.

Common signs include:

• severe scratching;
• hair loss;
• itchy lumps;
• blisters on areas with little fur.

Once the trigger has been found, avoiding it can greatly reduce the symptoms.

Preventing allergic reactions

The best way to prevent allergic reactions is to avoid what your pet is allergic to. That isn't always possible, for example if your pet is allergic to grass or the cause is not yet known.

Keeping a diary of when reactions happen, and what your pet was doing or eating at the time, can help narrow down the cause. Share it with your vet, who can recommend tests and treatment to keep your pet comfortable.