Allergies and Itchy Skin in Dogs and Cats
Constant scratching, licking and chewing can make life miserable for your pet and keep the whole household up at night. Allergies are one of the most common reasons pets visit our hospital, and with the right diagnosis they can be managed effectively. The veterinarians at The Pet Clinic help pets in Omaha, NE find lasting relief from itchy skin and recurring infections.
Common Types of Pet Allergies
Flea Allergy Dermatitis
For allergic pets, a single flea bite can trigger intense itching that lasts for weeks. Hair loss and scabbing near the tail and back legs are classic signs. Year-round parasite prevention is the foundation of treatment.
Environmental Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)
Pollen, mold, dust mites and grasses can cause itching of the paws, face, ears, belly and armpits. Symptoms are often seasonal in Nebraska at first and may become year-round over time.
Food Allergies
Some pets react to a protein in their diet, such as chicken or beef. Food allergies can cause itchy skin, chronic ear problems and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.
Signs Your Pet May Have Allergies
- Frequent scratching, licking or chewing, especially the paws
- Red, inflamed or darkened skin
- Hair loss, hot spots or scabs
- Recurring ear infections
- Scooting or licking the rear end
- Odor from the skin or ears
How We Diagnose Allergies
Our veterinarians start with a thorough history and skin exam during a sick visit. Skin scrapings, tape cytology and ear swabs examined in our in-house laboratory let us identify mites, bacteria and yeast right away. When food allergy is suspected, we guide you through a strict elimination diet trial, which remains the most reliable way to diagnose it.
Allergy Treatment Options
- Fast-acting anti-itch medications and injectable allergy therapies
- Treatment of secondary skin and ear infections
- Medicated shampoos, mousses and wipes
- Prescription hypoallergenic diets through nutritional counseling
- Omega-3 fatty acid supplements to support the skin barrier
- Laser therapy for hot spots and lick granulomas
- Strict flea control for every pet in the household
Allergies are usually managed rather than cured, so regular wellness exams help us adjust your pet’s plan through the seasons. If your pet has already been treated elsewhere without improvement, we are happy to offer a second opinion. Explore other conditions we treat.
Pet Allergy FAQs
What are the most common allergies in dogs and cats?
The most common are flea allergy dermatitis, environmental allergies to pollen, dust mites and mold, and food allergies to specific proteins.
Why does my dog keep licking its paws?
Paw licking is one of the most common signs of environmental or food allergies. It can also be caused by infections, injuries or anxiety, so an exam is the best way to find the cause.
Can allergies cause ear infections in pets?
Yes. Allergies are the leading underlying cause of recurring ear infections in dogs. Controlling the allergy is key to preventing repeat infections.
How is a food allergy diagnosed?
Food allergies are diagnosed with an elimination diet trial, feeding a prescription hydrolyzed or novel protein diet exclusively for eight to twelve weeks and watching for improvement.
Can pet allergies be cured?
Most allergies cannot be cured, but they can be controlled very well with the right combination of medication, diet, skin care and parasite prevention.
Are over-the-counter allergy medications safe for pets?
Some antihistamines can be used in pets, but doses differ from people and some products contain ingredients that are toxic. Always check with your veterinarian first.
Do indoor cats get flea allergies?
Yes. Fleas can come indoors on people or other pets, and even one bite can trigger severe itching in an allergic cat.
Find Relief for Your Itchy Pet
Your pet does not have to live with constant itching. Call The Pet Clinic at (402) 330-3096 or request an appointment to start an allergy plan in Omaha, NE .