Hayfever in Pets

Hayfever in Pets

First things first, do animals get hayfever? It’s a question our experts in the pet pharmacy get asked a lot from concerned pet owners. And the answer is yes, the animals in our lives can suffer with hayfever just like we can. However, symptoms of hayfever in animals display differently to how they do in humans – which is why knowing the signs, and how to manage them effectively, is so important.

Hayfever and Pets: Key Facts

  • Pets can and do get hayfever, but their symptoms do not manifest in the same ways as they do in humans.
  • Common hayfever symptoms to look out for in pets include excessive scratching, licking paws, red or inflamed skin, head shaking and extreme tiredness.
  • Human hayfever medications may not be safe for animals. Only use antihistamines or other treatments specifically recommended by a vet.
  • Consider natural remedies like wiping your pet after walks, limiting time outdoors during high pollen hours, and using air purifiers can reduce exposure and ease symptoms.
  • Always consult an animal healthcare professional. Before starting your pet on any treatment, natural or medicinal, we recommend speaking to your vet or pet pharmacist.

Symptoms of Hayfever in Pets: What to Look Out For

Although the main triggers of hayfever and other allergies are similar in pets and humans, the actual symptoms of hayfever in animals can be quite different. While humans typically experience sneezing, a runny nose and watery eyes, these symptoms are less common in pets and animals. 

Keep an eye out for your pet experiencing any of the following:

  • Licking or chewing their paws
  • Excessive scratching or itching
  • Red or inflamed skin, especially around their eyes, ears or between their toes
  • Shaking their head frequently
  • Rubbing their ears or face against furniture or the floor
  • Tiredness or low energy, particularly when the pollen count is high

If your dog or cat is showing any of these signs, particularly during the warmer months, it’s important to speak to your vet or a pet expert. Many of these symptoms could also indicate other health issues, so a proper diagnosis is extremely important. If your pet’s symptoms seem to lessen during winter months, that’s a strong sign that pollen is likely a contributing factor. You can read more here about dogs and skin allergies.

Hayfever Relief for Animals ​

Hayfever tablets and treatments in humans can get straight to the source of the allergy and nip symptoms in the bud - which is exactly what you need for your furry friends too. If your pet has been diagnosed with hayfever, treatment plans often include:

  • Pet-safe antihistamines
    Antihistamines for pets are an extremely effective allergy medication for dogs, especially for those suffering from seasonal allergies. Always consult your vet for the correct dosage and type, as some over-the-counter options for humans can be harmful to animals.
     
  • Medicated shampoos to soothe itchy skin
    Bathing your pet with vet-recommended medicated shampoos can help remove allergens from their fur and calm irritated, itchy skin. Look for products containing ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera to gently cleanse and hydrate.
     
  • Prescribed anti-inflammatory medications
    For more severe reactions, your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling, redness and discomfort in your pet. These treatments can make a big difference in restoring your pet’s quality of life during high pollen seasons.
     
  • Special diet or supplements to help support the skin and immune system
    Food and nutrition plays a vital role in managing pet allergies. Your vet might recommend a special hypoallergenic diet or give you supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation naturally.

If you’re a concerned pet owner, get expert advice on animal hayfever from our trusted pet experts today. We have a quick and easy pet prescription service available.
 

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Natural Remedies for Hayfever Treatment in Animals

If you’d prefer to go down the natural route when treating your pet’s hayfever symptoms, you can try to avoid hayfever triggers or use natural remedies. Here are several ways to reduce your pet’s exposure to allergens and ease symptoms without relying on medication.

  • Limit outdoor time during pollen peaks
    Limiting outdoor walks and time spent outside to early mornings and evenings, when the pollen count is usually at its highest. Avoid midday outings, especially during dry, windy weather. Keep an eye on local pollen forecasts.
     
  • Wipe down your pet after walks
    Use a damp cloth or pet-safe grooming wipe to gently clean your pet’s fur, paws and face after they’ve been outside. This helps to remove pollen particles and prevent them from triggering their hayfever symptoms.
     
  • Keep windows closed during high pollen days
    While fresh air is good for our furry friends, keeping windows and doors shut during peak pollen hours can help reduce the amount of pollen and allergens getting into your home and triggering symptoms.
     
  • Regular grooming and bathing
    Frequent fur brushing can help remove pollen trapped in your pet’s coat. Bathing with soothing, natural shampoos can also help calm itchy and irritated skin.
     
  • Use an air purifier
    An air purifier can help trap pollen, dust and dander in your home. This creates a cleaner, more comfortable environment for both you and your pet.

 

FAQs

Can dogs get hayfever?

Yes, dogs can suffer from hayfever, although their symptoms look a little different to hayfever in humans. Instead of sneezing, runny noses or watery eyes, dogs often show signs like itchy skin, excessive scratching, licking paws, or shaking their head more frequently.

 

Can dogs have antihistamines and hayfever tablets?

It is considered safe for dogs to take certain antihistamines, but only under the guidance of a vet or pet healthcare professional. Some over-the-counter options can be harmful to pets, so it’s important to use products and dosages specifically approved for animal use.
 

Do horses get hayfever?

Hayfever in horses is a real concern for owners and trainers, especially during peak pollen seasons, as horses are most often kept outside. In horses, hayfever often presents itself as respiratory issues such as coughing, laboured breathing or a runny nose. This may require treatment or management through environmental control and vet-prescribed medications.

 

Do cats get hayfever?

Cat hayfever is less common than in other animals like dogs and horses, but is still possible. Cat hayfever is particularly prevalent in the spring and summer, when the pollen count is higher. Keep an eye out for irritated skin and sneezing in your cat, before taking to the vets for a full examination and diagnosis.