If your dog or cat is constantly itching, licking their paws, or getting frequent ear infections, allergies may be the cause. Allergies are one of the most common reasons pets visit the veterinarian, especially during the spring and summer months in Florida.
Pet allergies often affect the skin, ears, and paws, and symptoms can range from mild itching to severe infections if left untreated.
What Causes Allergies in Pets?
Pets can develop allergies to many things in their environment or diet. The most common causes include:
- Pollen
- Grass
- Mold
- Dust mites
- Fleas
- Certain foods (chicken, beef, dairy, etc.)
Environmental allergies are commonly called Atopic dermatitis, and they tend to be seasonal at first but often become year-round over time.
How Allergies Affect the Skin
Skin is the most commonly affected area in pets with allergies. You may notice:
- Scratching
- Red skin
- Hot spots
- Hair loss
- Scabs
- Skin infections
- Chewing or licking the body
When pets constantly scratch and chew, they damage the skin, which allows bacteria and yeast to cause infections.
How Allergies Affect the Ears
Many pets with allergies also develop ear problems. Allergy-related ear issues may include:
- Ear infections
- Head shaking
- Scratching at ears
- Red or inflamed ears
- Odor from ears
- Dark discharge
If your pet keeps getting ear infections, allergies are often the underlying cause.
How Allergies Affect the Paws
Paw licking is one of the biggest signs of allergies in dogs. Signs include:
- Constant licking or chewing paws
- Red or swollen feet
- Brown staining on fur from saliva
- Limping
- Recurrent nail or toe infections
Many owners think their pet is bored, but paw licking is often due to allergies.
How Are Pet Allergies Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of your pet’s allergies. Your veterinarian may recommend:
- Allergy medications
- Ear medications
- Flea prevention
- Diet trials
- Cytopoint or Apoquel (for dogs)
- Allergy testing or immunotherapy
Allergies usually cannot be cured, but they can be managed very successfully so pets are comfortable and not constantly itching.
When Should You See the Vet?
You should schedule an exam if your pet has:
- Constant itching
- Paw licking
- Ear infections
- Hair loss
- Hot spots
- Skin odor
- Red skin
- Scabs or sores
The earlier allergies are treated, the easier they are to control and the less likely your pet will develop infections.
The Bottom Line
If your pet is itching, licking, or getting ear infections, allergies may be the cause. Allergies commonly affect the skin, ears, and paws, and they often get worse over time if not treated.
The good news is that there are many safe and effective treatments that can help your pet feel much more comfortable.
If you think your pet may have allergies, we recommend scheduling an exam so we can help create a treatment plan.