Animals – Managing itchy pets

Contact and inhalational allergies in pets can significantly impact the comfort and overall wellbeing of pets (and owners!) by causing itchy skin, persistent scratching or licking, sneezing, watery eyes nasal discharge, snoring and “over grooming”. Reactions occur when pets are exposed to airborne allergens like pollen, mould spores, grasses and house dust mites.

There are many strategies to reduce these symptoms without relying too heavily on medications. While medications may sometimes be necessary, a supportive approach focusing on nutrition, environment and targeted care can make a noticeable difference.

A well-balanced, anti-inflammatory diet plays a key role in supporting your pet’s skin and respiratory health. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), help reduce inflammation and support the integrity of the skin and lungs. These can be provided through fish oil or algal oil supplements. Choosing a low-reactivity, high-quality diet, such as limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic food, can help reduce underlying inflammation. For pets that suffer from nasal allergies such as sneezing, snoring or nasal discharge, iodine supplementation may be beneficial. Iodine supports the health of mucous membranes and may reduce inflammation in nasal passages. Seaweed-based supplements, used under veterinary guidance, can provide a natural source of iodine.

Limiting your pet’s exposure to allergens is another important step. Try to avoid freshly mown lawns and wandering jew plants. Use a plant id app to help track which plants are releasing pollen in your area. Pay attention to when your pet’s symptoms worsen and reduce their time outdoors during that season. After walks, wash your pet’s paws and tummy to remove pollen and dust.

Using the MetService website for pollen forecasts can be useful in planning your pet’s activities. On days when pollen counts are high, keep windows closed and limit outdoor exposure as much as possible.

Oral cortisone medications such as prednisone can be effective for managing allergy symptoms but should be used with caution. Side effects can include increased thirst, weight gain and immune suppression. As alternatives, some pets may benefit from topical sprays, ointments or inhalers, which offer more targeted treatment with fewer systemic effects.

Managing temperature and humidity inside your home can also help. Heat can worsen itching and inflammation, so keep pets cool with fans, cooling mats or cool water rinses. Aim to maintain indoor humidity levels between 40 and 50% to discourage mould and dust mites.

Topical treatments can support skin health. Dry, flaky skin may benefit from warm oil soaks, while greasy or weepy skin may require antiseptic shampoos or powders. Flea prevention is critical as even a single bite can cause a severe allergic reaction. Use year-round flea control for all pets, even during winter, especially in warmer regions like north of Auckland.

By combining nutrition, environmental management, topical care and veterinary advice, you can help your pet live more comfortably. Allergy testing is also available and may help pinpoint specific triggers.