A simple guide to spring allergies from your local independent team at Priory Vets
As our local parks, gardens and forest walks burst into life, it’s a beautiful time to be out with our pets — but not all pets welcome the season as much.
Have you noticed your dog chewing their paws after a walk, or your cat grooming more than usual? That’s because spring and early summer are peak months for allergies in pets.
In pets allergies don’t usually mean sneezing or runny eyes. Instead, they tend to appear on the skin. Signs you might notice at home include:
• Scratching, licking or chewing (especially paws)
• Red or irritated skin
• Ear shaking or repeated ear problems
• Over-grooming in cats
• Small scabs or patchy hair loss
• Scooting or licking around the bottom
These early changes are often your pet’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right.
Why this time of year can be tricky
At this time of year, there are a few familiar triggers. Grass pollen is a common one, especially for dogs who pick it up during walks. Fleas also become more active as temperatures rise, and even a single bite can trigger intense irritation. Add in environmental allergens like tree pollen and mould spores, and symptoms can quickly build.
Some breeds are naturally more prone to allergies, meaning symptoms may appear earlier or become more persistent.
The good news is that, with the right support, most pets can be kept comfortable. The key is not waiting until things become severe.
Getting on top of things early
For many owners, one of the biggest challenges is knowing when to seek veterinary attention.
Symptoms can vary from season to season, and what settled on its own previously may not follow the same pattern — sometimes becoming more persistent or leading to infection and increased discomfort.
Because allergies tend to be something we manage over time, rather than cure completely, it helps to think ahead about day-to-day care, including routine parasite control and how best to support your pet when things change.
Having that support in place makes it easier to check in early, often preventing problems from escalating and keeping treatment simpler and less costly. At Priory Vets, our Priory Pet Club is designed with this in mind, with consultations included so you can seek advice as soon as something changes- giving reassurance and helping keep pets comfortable and happy this season.
If your pet doesn’t seem quite themselves this spring, trust your instinct. You know them best and acting early can make a real difference to their comfort over the months ahead.