Pet Allergies: What to Watch for This Spring
As flowers bloom and temperatures rise, many of us welcome spring with open arms. But for pets, this season can bring more than sunny days and longer walks—it can also bring a wave of irritating allergies. If your dog or cat has started scratching more than usual, licking their paws obsessively, or developing red, irritated skin, they may be reacting to common environmental allergens.
Seasonal allergies in pets, also called atopic dermatitis, occur when a pet’s immune system overreacts to airborne substances like pollen, mould spores, or dust mites. Unlike humans who tend to sneeze and get watery eyes, pets usually show allergy symptoms through their skin and ears. These reactions are particularly common in spring, when pollen counts spike and outdoor allergens are everywhere—on the ground, in the air, and even clinging to your clothes or your pet’s fur.
How to Tell if Your Pet Has Spring Allergies
Dogs and cats can’t tell us when they’re feeling off, but their behaviour speaks volumes. You might notice your pet scratching constantly, licking or chewing at their paws, or rubbing their face against furniture to relieve the itch. In many cases, their skin may look red, inflamed, or irritated—especially on their belly, underarms, and between the toes. Some pets develop hot spots (raw patches of skin), while others experience repeated ear infections, which can cause head shaking and discomfort. Cats may groom excessively, creating bald patches or scabby spots, particularly on the neck and face.
While occasional scratching is normal, persistent symptoms are a sign that something’s not right—and spring allergies are a common cause.
Common Triggers for Pet Allergies in Spring
During spring, the most common allergens include tree pollen (from oak, cedar, birch, and maple), grass pollen, weed pollen, mould spores, and dust mites. Fleas are also more active as the weather warms up, and a single flea bite can cause an intense allergic reaction in sensitive pets. Even pets who spend most of their time indoors can be affected by these allergens, which often enter the home through open windows, on shoes, or via other pets.
How to Soothe Your Pet’s Allergies
Helping your pet feel better during allergy season starts with minimising their exposure to allergens and supporting their skin and immune health. After outdoor walks or playtime, wiping down your pet’s paws and coat with hypoallergenic pet wipes can go a long way in reducing allergens. Bathing them weekly with a gentle, anti-itch shampoo—especially one with soothing ingredients like oatmeal or aloe—can also relieve irritation and wash away allergens trapped in their fur.
Coatex Aloe and Oatmeal Shampoo 500ml £26.49
Flea prevention is another essential step. Spring is high season for fleas and ticks, and flea allergy dermatitis is one of the most common causes of severe itching in pets. Be sure your pet is on a consistent flea and tick preventative, whether it’s a monthly chew, topical treatment, or flea-repelling collar.
Supplements can also play a powerful role in managing allergies. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, help improve skin health and reduce inflammation, making them a great addition to your pet’s daily routine. Allergy support chews that contain natural ingredients like quercetin, colostrum, or nettle leaf may also help reduce histamine responses and provide relief from itching. Don’t forget about probiotics, either—supporting your pet’s gut health can strengthen their immune system and make them less reactive to allergens overall.
Dorwest Probiotic Plus for Dogs £20.29 and Gomega Plus Pump 150ml £46.99
At home, creating a clean, allergy-safe environment can make a huge difference. Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can reduce the number of airborne allergens in your pet’s living space. Washing pet bedding, blankets, and toys regularly—and vacuuming often—will help keep dust and pollen from building up indoors. On high-pollen days, it’s a good idea to keep windows closed and limit time spent in grassy or wooded areas.
When to Call the Vet
If your pet’s symptoms persist despite at-home care, or if you notice signs of infection (such as a strong odour, discharge from the ears, or open wounds), it’s time to talk to your veterinarian. They may recommend prescription medications such as antihistamines, medicated shampoos, or even corticosteroids to control inflammation. In some cases, your vet may suggest allergy testing to identify specific triggers, or allergy immunotherapy to help desensitise your pet to the allergens over time.
Give Your Pet the Relief They Deserve
Allergies can’t be cured, but with consistent care and the right products, you can help your furry friend stay happy, healthy, and itch-free this spring. As an online pet retailer, we offer a full range of products to support your pet during allergy season—from soothing shampoos and gentle wipes to immune-boosting supplements and vet-approved flea preventatives.