Identifying & Treating Allergies in Dogs & Cats
Is your pet constantly scratching or experiencing tummy troubles? If so, your furry friend could possibly be suffering from allergies. Here at Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario, we see many pets suffering from allergies, often without their owners even realizing it. Allergies in dogs and cats can look like skin infections, ear problems, or digestive upset, and they often get worse without proper care.
This blog from an East London, ON vet explores the most common types of pet allergies, how to identify allergic reactions, and the treatments that bring lasting relief.
What Are the Main Types of Allergies in Pets?
Allergies in pets are immune system overreactions to substances that are usually harmless. The three main categories are:
- Environmental allergies – dust mites, mould, pollen, grass
- Food allergies – proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, or grains
- Flea allergy dermatitis – hypersensitivity to flea saliva
Some pets may suffer from more than one allergy type, making diagnosis and treatment a layered process.
What Are Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs and Cats?
Allergic pets often show symptoms that affect their skin, ears, or digestion. Dog allergy symptoms can vary, so it’s important to know what to look for:
- Itchy skin, especially paws, ears, and belly
- Frequent licking or chewing
- Hair loss or hot spots
- Red, inflamed ears or recurring infections
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Scooting or excessive grooming (especially in cats)
Read more about pet allergy signs here (External link 1).
These signs may worsen seasonally (in environmental allergies) or persist year-round (in food allergies). Keep in mind that while allergies are often a cause of skin and coat problems, they aren’t the only option. A veterinary exam is the first step in narrowing down the cause.
How Are Pet Allergies Diagnosed?
Diagnosing allergies requires a combination of history-taking, physical exams, and in some cases, testing. Your vet may recommend:
- Food trials – feeding a novel or hydrolyzed protein diet for 8–12 weeks to rule out food allergies
- Intradermal allergy testing – often used in referral dermatology practices
- Blood testing for allergens – less accurate, but sometimes useful
A diagnosis can take time, but it’s worth the effort. Treating dog allergy symptoms without knowing the cause may lead to temporary relief, but the issue will keep returning.
What Are Treatment Options for Pet Allergies?
Once diagnosed, managing allergies may include:
- Medications like antihistamines, corticosteroids, or Apoquel® for dogs
- Topical treatments including medicated shampoos and ear drops
- Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or oral drops)
- Strict flea prevention for flea-sensitive pets
- Long-term diet changes for confirmed food allergies
For cats, treatment often focuses on diet and topical care, since oral medications are more difficult to administer.
How Do Food Allergies Differ from Sensitivities?
Food allergies involve an immune response, often causing itchy skin or GI upset. Food sensitivities, on the other hand, are non-immune reactions—like lactose intolerance or trouble digesting fat—and may only cause digestive symptoms.
Appropriate diets can help a lot with managing pet allergic reactions. However, an elimination diet is required to confirm a food allergy diagnosis. Your East London, ON vet will guide you through the process and recommend prescription or limited-ingredient options.
Are Some Breeds More Prone to Allergies?
Yes—breeds like Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Boxers, and West Highland Terriers are especially prone to skin allergies. Siamese cats are more likely to develop food allergies or asthma-like reactions to inhaled allergens.
Knowing your pet’s breed risk factors helps tailor preventive care and catch allergy symptoms early.
Can Allergies Be Cured or Outgrown?
Unfortunately, allergies in pets are rarely cured—but they can be managed effectively with the right plan. Managing pet allergic reactions often entails limiting their exposure to the allergen that bothers them. Many pets need a combination of treatments, such as lifestyle changes, medication, environmental standards, and regular monitoring to stay comfortable long-term. Don’t worry, though: a kitty with cat food allergies may still be full of purrs and pounces.
Some seasonal allergies may become less intense over time, while food allergies typically remain for life. The key is to stay proactive and adjust treatment as your pet’s needs evolve.
Learn more about allergies in dogs here.
Give Your Pet the Relief They Deserve
Allergies can impact your pet’s comfort, behaviour, and quality of life—but with proper care, they don’t have to. Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see.
Contact Our East London, ON Animal Clinic
At Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario, we can help you manage your pet’s allergies, so they feel their best. Book an appointment today to discuss symptoms or schedule allergy testing.
This blog is meant to be informational only, always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice or treatment plan to fit your pet’s needs.
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