The only thing funnier than a dog sneezing is a cat sneezing. But a pet that suffers from allergies is nothing to sneeze at. Just like humans, your fur babies can also suffer from allergies, which can cause sneezing, watery eyes, coughing and skin irritation. There are three types of common allergies that affect cats and dogs: allergies to food, insect bites, or the environment. Allergic symptoms will vary for each animal, but there are common symptoms to watch out for.
Allergic Reactions in Dogs and Cats
Allergic symptoms occur when the body responds to allergens, which are simply antigens that trigger the immune system and cause a response. Allergens are present in the environment and for the most part, do not result in any reactions because the body builds up immunity over time. However, when the body misidentifies an allergen as harmful, the immune system creates unnecessary antibodies which can cause mild symptoms, but also very dangerous reactions.3 The most common allergens that result in allergies are found in foods, plants, drugs, mold, metals and wood. In addition, allergies are caused by insect bites or contact with animal fur or dander.4 While there may be a hereditary predisposition to allergies, most allergies are the result of the environment.
Types of Pet Food Allergies
While less than 10 percent of cats and dogs have allergic reactions to food, the most common food allergies for cats are due to eating beef, dairy, chicken or fish. When a cat has a food allergy, a common symptom is small, pale, fluid-filled lumps on the skin, which are generally around the head and neck areas.1 While the skin irritation is usually not a great risk, excessive itching can result in bacterial infections, which can be serious. Cats can also experience digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea as a result of allergies.
For dogs, the most common food allergies are due to beef, dairy, wheat, lamb, chicken, eggs or soy.4 Dogs with food allergies may experience itching, digestive issues or respiratory distress. While there is a scientific distinction between a food allergy and food intolerance, the symptoms are similar. However, food intolerance does not trigger a response by the immune system, but can result in a variety of adverse food reactions that are generally less serious than food allergies and primarily include gastrointestinal symptoms.5
Pet Allergies Caused by Insects
A second common source of allergies for dogs and cats are insect bites. In addition to fleas, common insects that can trigger an inflammatory reaction include bites from
- Spiders
- Ticks
- Blackflies
- Horseflies
- Deerflies
- Mosquitoes
- Ants
- Bees
- Hornets and wasps
While a single flea bite may only cause a slight localized skin irritation, there is a risk that severe itching will result in further skin irritation or a bacterial infection.
Spring Allergies in Dogs and Cats
Another common source of allergies is the environment. Potential allergens are present inside and outside. Sources include dust, mold, pollen, grass, mildew, cleaning products, smoke and perfume. Some allergens are seasonal, like “hay fever” which usually occurs in the spring when there is more pollen in the air. However, many environmental allergens, like dust mites and dander are year-round. Because environmental allergens are inhaled, the symptoms typically include upper respiratory distress like watery eyes, running nose and sneezing. Some allergies can result in bronchitis, and for dogs, inhalant allergies also result in itchy skin.
Preventing Pet Allergies
Like most pet health care issues, keeping a watchful eye on your pet is the best line of defense because you are most likely to notice any change in behavior. Allergic symptoms are not necessarily unique to allergies, and can also be symptoms for other medical issues. Also, the symptoms often overlap which makes diagnosis even more challenging. However, if you notice excessive itching, skin irritation or respiratory distress, then you should consult with a veterinarian to determine whether your pet has an allergy.
Seasonal Allergy Treatment
Once a pet has been diagnosed with an allergy, there are various treatment options available including medication and lifestyle changes. Of course, treatment will depend on several factors including the type of allergy, the general health of your pet and the type of symptom. For example, symptoms for seasonal allergies due to pollen can be reduced by avoiding parks or fields and wiping your dog’s feet and coat after each walk. For cats, keep them inside, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon when the level of pollen is at the highest.
Other ways to reduce the risk of allergies is to use flea protection and check for any insect bites. Keeping the home clean and dust free will also help keep your pet healthy. Most importantly, and a pet health and wellness insurance policy will ensure your pet receives the necessary medical treatment in case of allergies or any health issue.
Interestingly, veterinarians are learning more about pet allergies as scientists learn more about human allergies and treatments. For example, studies have shown that higher incidents of allergies in dogs were directly correlated with higher incidents of allergies in pet owners. This suggests that environmental allergens impact humans and pets similarly. 2 Moreover, lifestyles such as having more than two children in the family and having regular contact with other pets have been found to be allergy protective for both humans and pets alike.2 Perhaps it is not surprising that pets, as members of the family, are exposed to the same allergens as humans, which can result in allergies (and plenty of sneezing).
Fortunately, Pets Best offers pet insurance policies that cover allergies and can help reimburse you for veterinary costs to treat your pet’s allergies. Insure your pet while they are young to help reduce the risk of medical conditions being considered pre-existing and gain peace of mind knowing that you’ll have help affording the best care for your pet.*
* Terms and conditions apply. See policy for details.
References
1 Cornell Feline Health Center. (n.d.). Food Allergies. Retrieved from Cornell Feline Health Center: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/food-allergies
2 Hakanen, E., Jenni Lehtimaki, E. S., Tiira, K., Anturaniemi, J., Hielm-Bjorkman, A., Ruokolainen, L., & Lohi, H. (2018, January 25). Urban Environment Predisposes Dogs and Their Owners to Allergic Symptoms. Scientific Reports. doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-19953-3
3 Mayo Clinic. (2020, August 4). Allergies. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/symptoms-causes/syc-20351497
4 Rozenbaum, M. (2015, July 28). Can Your Pet Be Allergic to Humans. Retrieved from Understanding Animal Research: https://www.understandinganimalresearch.org.uk/news/research-medical-benefits/can-your-pet-be-allergic-to-humans/
5 Williams, K., & Downing, R. (n.d.). Food Intolerance in Dogs. Retrieved from VCA Hospitals: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/adverse-reactions-to-food-in-dogs