Itchy, Sneezing, Sniffling: Seasonal Allergies in Dogs, Cats & Other Pets

I’ve loved animals my entire life—from caring for my family pets as a child to building a career as a trusted veterinarian. I’ve seen firsthand how seasonal allergies can affect pets of all kinds, and I truly understand how worrying it can be when a furry, feathered, or scaled friend seems uncomfortable. Whether it’s a dog licking their paws, a cat sneezing, or a rabbit with watery eyes, I know that timely care and attention can make all the difference.

At Gibson’s Paws, Claws & Crawls, our dedicated team provides compassionate care to keep your pets healthy, happy, and comfortable year-round. 

Here, I’ll share the signs to watch for, along with tips and strategies to help your pet find relief this allergy season.

How Do Allergies Show Up in Different Pets?

Allergy symptoms can vary depending on the type of pet. Here’s limited list of what to look for:

• Dogs & Cats: Red, itchy skin, paw licking, shaking head, watery eyes, or sneezing.

  
  

• Rabbits & Small Mammals: Sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, patchy fur, or excessive grooming.

  
  

• Birds: Feather plucking, sneezing, wheezing, swollen eyes, or changes in droppings.

  
  

• Reptiles: Skin irritation, wheezing, frequent rubbing, or unusual shedding patterns.

If your pet seems extra itchy, sneezy, or just “off” this season, allergies could be the reason.

Helping Your Pet Find Allergy Relief

You don’t have to feel helpless, there are simple steps to make your pet more comfortable:

• Keep them clean: Gently wipe down fur, feet, feathers, or scales after outdoor play. Fragrance-free baby wipes or species-specific wipes can be used.

  
  

• Bathe routinely: Use pet-safe, species-appropriate shampoos or wipes weekly. Fragrance-free, oatmeal-based moisturizing shampoos work best for our furry friends. Frequently change out dust used in dust baths for small animals, such as rodents.

  
  

• Wash bedding and enclosures: Clean, fresh spaces mean fewer allergens. Clean out enclosures frequently and replace bedding/substrate used. Remove excrement and soiled bedding as soon as possible. Use fragrance-free, sensitive skin laundry detergent to keep bedding and toys clean.

  
  

• Control pests: Consistent flea and mite prevention helps keep your pet comfortable and reduces allergy flare-ups. Year-round, prescription flea prevention works best. Flea treatments for the environment may be required. Frequent use of flea shampoos can dry out the skin/coat and exacerbate the problem.

  
  

• Consult your veterinarian: Some pets may benefit from medications, medicated shampoos, allergy testing, or species-specific care plans. Pets with allergies are more susceptible to developing secondary infections of their skin, eyes, and ears. Veterinary care is crucial for managing these infections.At Gibson’s Vet Hospital, we create individualized treatment plans and offer the best allergy medicine options— always prioritizing your pet’s health, comfort, and happiness.

We’re Here for Paws, Claws, & Everything in Between

From wagging tails to twitching whiskers to flickering tongues, every animal deserves to feel their best. If you notice your pet showing signs of seasonal allergies, our knowledgeable vet-led team is here to help bring them relief.

Fall Wellness Specials

This season, we’re offering comprehensive fall wellness packages for dogs and cats, designed to keep your pets healthy, happy, and allergy-free. Conveniently located, we're a full-service veterinary hospital proudly serving the pet families in Spring, Humble, and the greater Houston area.

Call us at (281) 443-2626 to book your pet’s fall wellness visit today and give them the compassionate care they deserve!