Sneezin’ Season: How to Help Your Pet Through Fall Allergy Season

By Kendra S. Gray, CPDT-KA

When you think of fall, your mind probably jumps to apple picking and leaf-peeping in the crisp autumn air or drowning your senses in pumpkin spice everything! What you probably don’t picture, or don’t want to picture, is your dog or cat scratching and sneezing like it’s their full-time job. But here’s the thing — pets get seasonal allergies too, and autumn can be especially tough on your dog or cat’s sensitive nose, skin, and paws.

If your furry friend seems a little “off” this time of year, allergies could be to blame. Let’s walk through what’s going on, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to help your pet through fall allergy season.

The Usual Suspect for Fall Allergies

Just like people, dogs and cats can react to all the autumn allergens floating around once September hits. Environmental allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to contact with a foreign substance, an allergen. Here are some of the most common culprits:

• Ragweed is one of fall’s most common allergens for both humans and pets. A single plant can produce up to 1 billion grains of pollen, and it can then spread for miles on the autumn breeze.

• Mold Spores are another common issue in the fall. Wet leaves and damp soil create the perfect breeding ground for mold. Pets who love rolling in leaf piles or moist grass can be especially susceptible.

• Dust Mites are year-round menaces for many with allergies (pets and their humans). But when the dropping temperatures and damp fall weather usher us inside and force our hand on the thermostat, all the dust that’s built up in our homes over the summer gets stirred up, often triggering reactions.

• Outdoor Fungi tends to pop up all over the place in damp fall weather. And while mushrooms might be cute for fairytale photos, they’re also allergy troublemakers for sensitive pets.

• Fleas, like dust mites, can be a nuisance all year, but fall is one of the worst times for infestations. They thrive in the cool, damp autumn weather, and while not all pets have a true flea allergy, animals with other environmental allergies are more likely to have an allergic reaction to a flea bite.

  
  

How to Tell if Your Pet Has Fall Allergies

Unlike allergies in people, seasonal pet allergies don’t always cause sneezing, wheezing, or runny eyes. And we all know our pets can’t raise a paw and say, “Hey, my sinuses are clogged.” But their bodies give plenty of clues. Keep an eye out for:

• Excessive itching, scratching, or licking (especially of the paws, belly, or ears) – this is the most common!!

• Red, irritated, or scaly skin or hot spots

• Scratches or abrasions (indicating excessive itching and scratching)

• Hair loss or darkening and/or thickening of the skin

• Head shaking or frequent ear infections

• Watery eyes or runny nose

• Sneezing or coughing

• Scooting or licking their rear end (it may be less obvious, but allergies can cause itchiness there, too!)

Ways to Help Your Allergic Pet Feel Better

Thankfully, there are plenty of simple ways to ease your pet’s discomfort during fall allergy season. And some may even help the humans in your home with their allergies, too. Here are a few little things that can make a big difference:

1. Wipe down after walks

   A quick once-over with a damp cloth or pet wipe can remove pollen from fur and paws before it gets tracked all over the house or ingested by your pet’s eager tongue.

2. Bathe regularly

   Oatmeal or hypoallergenic shampoos can calm itchy skin and wash away allergens. Just don’t overdo it – too many baths can dry out their coat and skin.

3. Clean bedding often

   Washing your pet’s favorite blankets and bedding weekly in hot water will help reduce dust mites and pollen buildup.

4. Vacuum like a pro

   Vacuum frequently and consider using a HEPA-filter vacuum; these vacuums are especially good at preventing allergens from recycling through the air.

5. Don’t forget the paws

   Pollen and other allergens can cling to your pet’s paws like Velcro. If wiping your pet's paws isn't doing enough, some pets may find relief with the proactive use of paw balms or even little booties (the same ones you use to keep the paws safe from ice and ice melt in the winter months).

6. Keep up with vet care

   If your pet’s symptoms are severe or persist despite taking steps to alleviate them, contact your vet, who may recommend supplements, antihistamines, medicated shampoos, or even allergy testing and shots.

   
   

Indoor Cats Can Struggle Too

It’s easy to assume allergies only affect dogs that romp and play outside, but indoor cats aren’t immune. Pollen and mold spores hitch a ride inside on clothing and shoes. And as mentioned before, dust mites are a common year-round issue in all households, so kitties can still end up scratching and sniffling. If you notice your cat grooming excessively, coughing, or scratching, allergies may be the culprit.

When to Call the Vet

A little paw licking or sneezing might be a simple case of seasonal allergies. But if it continues for days, if your pet seems miserable, isn’t eating, or develops skin infections, it’s time to seek professional help. Untreated allergies can lead to secondary issues, such as chronic ear infections or skin wounds from scratching. A vet can rule out other possible causes and help tailor treatment, including possible prescription medications, so your furry friend feels more like themselves. If you're ever in doubt, reach out to your trusted veterinarian for guidance.

Helping Pets Enjoy Fall Again

Fall is too beautiful a season for our pets to sit it out. With some extra care, both dogs and cats can still enjoy crunchy leaf walks, cozy naps, and maybe even a safe taste of pumpkin without being sidelined by fall allergies.

So, the next time you notice your dog or cat scratching or sneezing, remember – they might be as allergic to autumn as you are. Luckily, with a little time and TLC, everyone can get back to enjoying the best parts of the season.