When the time of year comes around and the flowers are blooming, bees are buzzing and grass needs mowing more often – so comes hay fever! Much like us humans, our pets can experience hay fever as well, and it’s so important for their comfort and health that we know how to identify it and help them through it, as hay fever symptoms in our pets can be incredibly uncomfortable and may need possible medical treatment.
What causes hay fever in our pets?
The same as us humans, springtime and the weather that comes along with it can trigger hay fever in our pets. The pollen, grasses, and seed spores that growing plants produce get into their air causing irritation to our pet’s skin – especially if you have a dog that loves rolling around in the grass!
What should you look for when identifying hay fever in your pet?
Our pets tend to show a much larger reaction to hay fever in their skin and eyes, rather than their sinuses like us humans – so look out for sores, rashes, or flaky skin that is overly itchy, and your pet is excessively nibbling, rubbing, or scratching at. These rashes or sores are usually more noticeable in places with less fur, like the face, armpits, paws, or belly. The irritation from hay fever can lead to the fur being lost around their itchy spot due to rubbing. It’s important to note that not all pets have a noticeable rash or sore, so you should be on the lookout for excessive rubbing or scratching even if the skin seems fine. You may also notice your pet having weepy eyes, sniffling and a runny nose, wheezing, and even ear infections!
Interestingly, according to Leticia Fidalgo Buron, vet and technical manager at Webbox, says certain breeds are more likely to develop hay fever than others!
“Certain breeds are more predisposed to allergies, which can be due to various factors, such as the shape of their noses and the type of their coat. Although mixed-breed dogs can suffer with allergies, science has shown that purebred dogs are more genetically prone to allergies.”
The breeds most likely to suffer from hay fever include, but aren’t limited to: Pitbulls, German Shepherds, Golden retrievers and Boxers.
What can we do to relieve hay fever allergies in our pets?
If your pet has symptoms of hay fever, you should always make your first point of call the Vet. They can then determine if the hay fever is the definite cause of their symptoms and discomfort, or if it is something else like a yeast infection or parasite.
Your vet may recommend a cone to stop your pet from scratching the site and causing any more damage. Your Vet may also recommend medications to help your pet get through the hay fever season – like pet antihistamines or itchy soothing creams.
They may also suggest bathing with special shampoos, brushing routines to remove allergens from the coat, or other grooming techniques to provide relief.
Your vet may also suggest staying away from long or pollinating grass, especially when there is a high pollen count. If you’d like to check the pollen levels on any given day, simply head to websites like https://www.pollenforecast.com.au/ which can provide you with that info!