Four paws explain possible symptoms and how affected animals are best protected
Hamburg. Spring time is pollen time – also for some animals. The Global Animal Welfare Foundation explains four paws what signs of a pollen allergy are available in dogs and cats and what keepers can do about it.
Not only people, but also dogs and cats can react allergic to different environmental stimuli. The reason for this are allergens to which the immune system of the affected animal reacts hypersensively. These include pollen of trees, bushes, herbs and grasses. “If the pet only gets problems with breathing in the spring, scratches more and more symptoms such as watery eyes, increased shaking the head or intensive licking of specific parts of the body, it may be that it suffers from a pollen allergy,” says Dr. Judith Förster, pet expert at four paws.
Does your dog or cat have a pollen allergy?
If a dog is allergic to pollen or grasses, the paws – especially the intermediate toe area – are most often affected by the snout, ears, eye area, groin area, armpits, limbs and the belly of allergic reactions.
“Dog owners should pay attention to the following symptoms: scratching or rubbing on the ears, eyes or face, intensive licking of the paws, reddened and damp skin, excessive fur loss, striking smell in the ears, hives, increasing shaking their heads, tearful backwards,” explains graduate biologist Dr. Ranger. “Some dogs show many reactions at the same time, others may only have a single symptom.”
In cats, the symptoms are similar: “Cat owners should be aware if the animal scratches or increasingly cleans or even if wounds even ignite because the cat is scratching itchy skin areas. Many cats also show an allergic reaction through frequent sneezing and a running nose or tearful eyes that are also red. It is also worth taking a look into the ear, because pollen and seeds can easily lead to ear infections in cats, ”explains the four paws expert.
This is how you help your animal through the pollen time
“Pet owners suspect a pollen allergy, the symptoms should definitely be clarified in a veterinary practice,” said Dr. Judith Förster. “If the animal is actually allergic, it is advisable to adapt the walk or exit in spring: During the time of day with the highest pollen concentration, the walk with the dog should only be brief. At this time, cats should be left in the house if possible. The air is particularly cleaned after the rain: the perfect time for a longer excursion in nature. ”
If possible, you should also avoid landscapes with long, flowering grasses for the walk. “It can be helpful to take the dog on a leash. This prevents the four-legged friend from throwing on her back in the grass and gathering a lot of pollen in the fur, ”said the pet expert. It is also advisable to pay more attention to grooming at pollen. “The animal can now be brushed a little more or even bathed. Depending on the fur quality, the veterinarian can give tips on what animal is useful for which animal, ”says Dr. Ranger.