Inhalant Allergies in Pets: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief

3 min read

Just like people, pets can develop allergies to particles in the air they breathe. Known as inhalant allergies or atopy, these sensitivities occur when your dog or cat’s immune system overreacts to environmental allergens like pollen, mold, or dust mites.

These allergies can cause constant itching, discomfort, and even secondary infections if not addressed. The good news? With the right care and treatment, most pets with inhalant allergies can live happy, comfortable lives.

In this post, we’ll explain what inhalant allergies are, how to spot the signs, and the treatment options available—plus tips to make your pet’s environment more allergy-friendly.

Why Pets Develop Inhalant Allergies

Inhalant allergies happen when airborne particles trigger your pet’s immune system, leading to inflammation and irritation. Dogs tend to develop these allergies more often than cats, though cats can be affected too.

Common culprits include:

• Pollen – from trees, grasses, and weeds

• Mold spores – often worse in humid or damp environments

• Dust mites – microscopic pests that live in bedding and upholstery

• Dander – from other pets or wildlife

• Household irritants – such as cleaning products or cigarette smoke

  
  

Some pets are genetically predisposed, and symptoms can start as early as 6 months of age.

Signs Your Pet May Have Inhalant Allergies

Unlike humans, pets with airborne allergies often show skin-related symptoms rather than sneezing or watery eyes (though those can happen too).

Watch for:

• Persistent itching or scratching

• Red, inflamed skin

• Frequent ear infections

• Licking or chewing paws

• Hair loss or hot spots

• Runny eyes or nose (less common)

  
  

These symptoms may be seasonal (like spring pollen allergies) or year-round, depending on the allergen.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Inhalant Allergies

Your veterinarian will start with a physical exam and rule out other causes of itching, such as fleas, food allergies, or skin infections.

They may recommend:

1. Allergy testing – Blood tests or intradermal (skin) testing to pinpoint specific allergens

2. Trial treatments – Using anti-itch medications or special shampoos to see if symptoms improve

3. Environmental history review – Checking your pet’s home and outdoor environment for triggers

   
   

Treatment Options for Inhalant Allergies

Managing inhalant allergies usually involves a combination of treatments and environmental adjustments:

1. Medications – Antihistamines, corticosteroids, or newer allergy-control drugs like Apoquel® or Cytopoint®

2. Allergen-specific immunotherapy – Allergy “shots” or oral drops tailored to your pet’s triggers

3. Medicated baths – Using hypoallergenic or anti-itch shampoos to remove allergens from skin and coat

4. Environmental control – Air purifiers, frequent bedding washes, and reducing indoor dust/mold

💡 Tip: Keeping a treatment diary can help track what works best for your pet and identify patterns in flare-ups.

Important Considerations

• Long-term management: Inhalant allergies are often lifelong, so ongoing treatment is key.

• Secondary infections: Allergies can make pets more prone to bacterial or yeast skin infections—treat these promptly.

• Vet guidance: Never start or adjust allergy medications without veterinary input.