It’s almost summer, the sun is out (occasionally), flowers are blooming, and warmer weather means longer walks and more time outdoors. But for some pets, it can also mean the start of allergy season — leaving them restless, itchy and uncomfortable.
Just like us, cats and dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies. But they don't typically experience the streaming eyes and runny nose that we associate with hay fever. Still, that doesn't make it any less uncomfortable for them.
What types of summer allergies affect pets?
Summer brings longer grass, higher pollen counts, and more time spent outdoors, increasing allergen exposure. Pets pick up pollen on their fur, paws and skin, which can trigger irritation, inflammation and persistent scratching. Grass and tree pollens are the most common triggers between May and August – inconveniently right when your pet is most likely to be rolling around in a field! Later in the summer and autumn, ragweed pollen peaks.
As if pollen wasn’t enough, mould spores thrive in warm, damp conditions too. Fleas are also far more active in the warmer months, when even a single bite can cause flea allergy dermatitis.
Hay fever symptoms in cats and dogs
Pets don’t always show allergies the same way humans do. Unlike humans, pets absorb allergens mainly through their skin and paws, so that's where symptoms tend to concentrate. You’re likely to notice:
- ● Persistent itching or scratching
- ● Licking or chewing paws
- ● Red, inflamed, or irritated skin
- ● Ear infections or head shaking
- ● Hair loss or bald patches
- ● Sneezing, coughing, or watery eyes (more common in cats)
All that nibbling and scratching at skin can also cause secondary infections. Check with your vet if symptoms are severe.
Can indoor cats get hay fever?
Yes, indoor cats can get hay fever, though it’s usually milder. Pollen can enter a house through open windows and doors, or you can bring it in on your shoes and clothes. Hay fever isn’t always to blame – dust mites, mould and household allergens from cleaning products can get your indoor cat scratching and sneezing year-round.
How to help your pet during hay fever season
There's plenty you can do at home to ease the misery. Start with the basics: daily grooming. After outdoor walks and garden adventures, wipe down paws and fur to remove pollen. You can also soothe irritated skin with an occasional bath using a gentle, vet-approved shampoo.
Tackling the house is up next! Create a low-allergen environment by vacuuming and washing your pet’s bedding regularly. Outside, aim to keep your grass under 2 inches. Walking your dog in the early morning or evening also helps to avoid peak pollen counts.
If symptoms persist, throw your pet a metaphorical bone! Your vet can rule out other issues in case you need a prescription for antihistamines and other medications.
Can diet help pets with seasonal allergies?
While diet won’t cure seasonal allergies, good nutrition can play an important role in supporting skin health and immune function.
Look for high-quality pet food with clearly named protein sources and minimal unnecessary ingredients. Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are naturally rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help support the skin barrier and normal inflammatory responses.
Keeping skin healthy and resilient can help pets cope better during the warmer months, especially when allergens are at their peak.
Explore the Thrive range of high-protein cat food, dog food, pet food cat treats and dog treats, made with real meat and fish and 0% nonsense®.
When should you see a vet?
Speak to your vet if your pet:
- scratches constantly
- develops sore or broken skin
- has recurring ear infections
- seems distressed or uncomfortable
- loses fur or develops bald patches
Your vet can help identify whether pollen, fleas, food or another allergen may be responsible.
Support your pet through allergy season with high-quality nutrition from the Thrive range of premium pet food and treats.
Written by Zahra Pettican.
