When pets are allergic to pollen and other airborne allergens

When pets are allergic to pollen and other airborne allergens


Dogs and cats don’t get hay fever, per se, but they definitely can be allergic to pollen, mold and dust. It’s just that instead of affecting their respiratory tract, allergens target their skin, causing atopic [ā-TOP-ĭc] dermatitis.

Genetically affected pets have a defective skin barrier that allows the particles to enter their body, causing inflammation and relentless itching.

There’s no definitive test, but the clinical presentation of atopic dermatitis is pretty characteristic. It’s often worst from spring through fall, and animals are usually relatively young when first affected. Dogs often lick their feet, while cats tend to overgroom their face and neck.

Atopic dermatitis is miserable for pets and can cause other problems too. If your pet is scratching or licking uncontrollably, see your veterinarian as soon as possible to learn more.

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