Spring in Cloquet brings sunshine, blooming trees, and longer walks with your furry companion. But it can also bring something less welcome—an itchy, scratchy, uncomfortable pet. If your dog is suddenly chewing on their paws or your cat is grooming themselves raw, you’re not alone.
Scratching, Sneezing, Licking—Is Your Pet Trying to Tell You Something?
You know your pet better than anyone. That sudden head-shake, nonstop scratching, or those red, watery eyes? They’re not just quirks—they’re signs something isn’t right. Common symptoms of environmental allergies in pets include:
- Itchy skin (especially around the ears, belly, paws, or base of the tail)
- Excessive licking or chewing
- Chronic ear infections or head shaking
- Red or inflamed skin
- Sneezing or watery eyes
- Hair loss or “hot spots”
These symptoms often appear or worsen in the spring and fall—when pollen counts are high and allergens are swirling through the air. But sometimes allergies can mimic other health issues, which is why getting a professional diagnosis is so important.
What’s Triggering the Reaction?
Here in northern Minnesota, pets are surrounded by seasonal and year-round allergens. Some of the most common environmental culprits include:
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
- Mold spores hiding in damp areas
- Dust mites found in upholstery, bedding, and carpets
- Dander from other animals
- Household chemicals and scented cleaning products
Dogs are especially prone to picking up allergens on their fur and paws during walks, then licking themselves as a way to soothe the irritation—which only makes things worse. And indoor cats? They’re not safe either. Mold, dust, and airborne irritants in the home can leave them just as itchy.
Could It Be Something More Than Allergies?
Itching isn’t always caused by seasonal triggers. Other possible causes include:
- Fleas or other parasites
- Skin infections like yeast or bacterial overgrowth
- Food sensitivities (especially to common proteins or grains)
- Autoimmune skin conditions
The tricky part is that many of these issues show up the same way—itchy skin, red spots, hair loss, or constant licking. That’s why trying to “wait it out” can leave pets uncomfortable and delay proper treatment.
Our veterinary team can help pinpoint the cause through skin tests, allergy screening, or food elimination trials. And if it’s not allergies, quick action can help catch infections or other issues before they become more serious.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
The good news is, pet allergies can be managed, and relief is within reach. Treatment will depend on the cause and severity, but may include:
- Antihistamines or anti-itch medications
- Corticosteroids for short-term relief during flare-ups
- Prescription diets or limited-ingredient foods
- Medicated baths or wipes to soothe the skin and wash away allergens
- Allergy desensitization injections (immunotherapy)
- Flea preventatives, even if fleas aren’t the main issue—because they often worsen skin reactions
You can find many vet-recommended products—including shampoos and allergy supplements—through our Cloquet Animal Hospital online pharmacy, which offers safe, reliable access to treatments.
Easy Steps You Can Take at Home
Even without a prescription, there are simple ways to ease your pet’s discomfort and reduce allergen exposure:
- Wipe down paws and fur after walks to remove pollen and debris
- Use an air purifier to reduce airborne allergens indoors
- Wash pet bedding weekly in hot water
- Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum
- Try hypoallergenic shampoos for gentle skin care
- Keep windows closed on high-pollen days
Keeping a journal of your pet’s symptoms can also help you and your vet spot patterns and seasonal triggers.
Don’t Let Allergies Keep Your Pet Down
No one wants to see their pet uncomfortable or in distress. If your dog or cat is showing signs of seasonal or environmental allergies, it’s time to get answers. Cloquet Animal Hospital offers expert care for itchy pets, from diagnostics to customized treatment plans that provide real relief. Whether it’s allergy testing, parasite control, or managing chronic skin issues, our team is here to help your pet feel their best again.
Call us at (218) 879-9280 or request an appointment online and find out what’s behind the itching—and what you can do about it.