Signs & Symptoms of a Pet Allergy

Allergens in your home and in the environment can affect your pets. Smoke, mites and household cleaners can all be the source of allergies, and different household pets will display different signs and symptoms.

  1. Dogs

    • The most visible signs of allergies in dogs are itching, scratching and chewing. Allergens cause the sensitive skin to itch, particularly the ears. Chronic ear infections are also symptomatic of allergies in dogs. Other signs are poor coat quality and changes in the length of fur, sniffling, sneezing and wheezing.

    Cats

    • Signs of allergies in cats are similar to those in dogs. Allergens can inflame the skin and cause hot spots: areas on the skin that turn red and itch, similar to a rash in humans. Weepy eyes are also signs of allergies in cats, as is an excess of mucus. Excessive shedding in cats can also be a symptom of allergies.

    Birds

    • Signs of allergies can be more difficult to detect in birds. Coughing and sneezing can be indicative of allergies, so can loss of feathers. Molting is sometimes symptomatic of allergies, especially seasonal ones.