Is your dog constantly scratching, licking their paws, or chewing their skin? Does your cat seem to be grooming non-stop or developing red patches? These could be signs of seasonal allergies or other underlying skin issues, and they’re more common than you might think.
Itching and excessive licking in pets can be caused by several things: fleas or mites, yeast or bacterial infections, fungal infections, even tumours. But one of the most frequent culprits? Allergies — especially seasonal ones.
Just like us, pets can be allergic to environmental triggers like pollen from trees and grasses, mould spores, dust mites, or even fleas. Seasonal allergies tend to flare up in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), though some pets may show symptoms year-round if they’re allergic to indoor allergens like dust or storage mites.
Common symptoms include:
Excessive licking (especially paws in dogs)
Red, inflamed skin or fur stained brown from saliva
Hair loss or patchy coats
Head shaking, ear scratching, or recurring ear infections
Scooting or licking their rear end (in dogs)
Sneezing or watery eyes (especially in cats)
In cats, flea allergy dermatitis often shows up as red spots across the back, while some allergic reactions can even present as wheezing or respiratory issues. Grass allergy in dogs can be exacerbated by allowing your dog to walk or lie on newly cut grass!
Whilst allergies can’t be cured, they can be managed. Regular flea prevention, medicated shampoos, anti-itch medications, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements can all help reduce symptoms and support your pet’s skin barrier. Routine ear cleaning in dogs can prevent infections, and in more persistent cases, your vet may recommend allergy testing and immunotherapy (an allergy “vaccine”) to help desensitize your pet over time.
Because allergens like pollen and dust are hard to avoid, simple steps like wiping your dog’s paws after a walk, feeding a particular diet, regular washing of bedding and cleaning regularly at home can also help.
If your pet is showing signs of itching, licking, or skin changes, don’t wait — see your vet. If you’re looking for a Vet in Ledbury, we can help you identify the cause and provide tailored treatment. Prompt care from a Ledbury Vet can prevent more serious infections and make life much more comfortable for your furry friend.
Allergies may be lifelong, but with the right support and routine care, your pet can stay happy and itch-free all year round.
If your pet is showing signs of itching, licking, or skin changes, don’t wait — see your vet. If you’re looking for a Vet in Ledbury, we can help you identify the cause and provide tailored treatment. Prompt care from a Ledbury Vet can prevent more serious infections and make life much more comfortable for your furry friend
