When most people think about allergies, they picture springtime blooms and sneezing fits. But for some pets, allergies aren’t limited to one season. They can cause itchy, irritated skin at any time of year. Seasonal allergies in dogs and cats are triggered by environmental changes, and each season can bring its own challenges. Country Club Veterinary Clinic treats pet allergies so that animal companions find long-lasting relief.

What Are Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Pets?

Allergies occur when your pet’s immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless, like pollen, mold spores, or even certain grasses. For many pets, this reaction shows up on the skin rather than as sneezing or watery eyes. The result? Persistent itching, licking, and scratching that can lead to red skin, hair loss, and infections if left untreated.

Pets may show signs of seasonal allergies like:

• Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching
• Red, inflamed skin or rashes
• Recurrent ear infections or head shaking
• Hair loss or thinning coat
• Scooting or rubbing against furniture
• Watery eyes or nasal discharge

If symptoms flare up around the same time each year, allergies are a likely cause.

How Each Season Can Trigger Pet Allergies

Spring
Blooming plants release high levels of pollen. Pets may develop itchy skin, especially on the paws, belly, and face after contact with grass or flowering plants.

Summer
Grass pollen peaks and flea activity surges. Flea bites can cause flea allergy dermatitis, a hypersensitive reaction that can make pets itch intensely after a single bite.

Fall
Weeds like ragweed release pollen, while mold spores increase as leaves decay. Damp weather can also create an ideal environment for skin yeast infections in sensitive pets.

Winter
While outdoor allergens are lower, dry indoor heat can cause flaky, itchy skin. Pets may also react to dust mites or indoor mold when they spend more time inside.

How Are Seasonal Allergies Diagnosed in Pets?

Veterinarians may start the allergy diagnosis process by ruling out other causes of itching, such as fleas, mites, or skin infections. Skin scrapings and cytology are two methods that can be used to check for parasites and infections. Blood testing is an allergy test that may be suggested to pinpoint a specific environmental allergen. The veterinarian will also discuss what you have noticed at home and review your pet’s history to identify seasonal patterns.

While seasonal allergies are not curable, the vet will lay out a treatment plan to manage your pet’s symptoms throughout the season. Treatments can vary from medications to control inflammation to anti-itch injections for dogs.

Treating Pet Seasonal Allergies in Lake Charles, LA

Seasonal allergies aren’t necessarily just a spring problem. The good news is that with the right treatment and preventive care, your pet can enjoy every season itch-free. Country Club Veterinary Clinic tests and treats allergies for pets in Lake Charles and from areas like Westlake and Sulphur. Is your pet itching more during certain times of the year? Schedule an appointment for an allergy consultation at Country Club Veterinary Clinic.