August is Itchy Pet Month - Understanding and Managing Pet Allergies

As responsible pet parents, we strive to keep our furry companions healthy and happy year-round. However, August brings a special focus on a common concern: skin allergies. Skin allergies can manifest in various forms in dogs and cats, leading to discomfort and sometimes severe health issues if left untreated.

August is Itchy Pet Month, and no surprise, Nationwide® sees a 45% increase in claims for allergic reactions, including skin allergies, between spring and summer months. This is most likely due to pets spending more time outside, allowing them to be exposed to increased allergens in the environment.

As we navigate Itchy Pet Month, it's a good idea for pet parents to learn how to recognize, manage, and prevent allergies in furry friends.

Skin Allergy Stats:

• Skin allergieshave been the #1 most common claim among Nationwide-insured dogs for 12 years.
• In 2023, Nationwide received 410,500 individual claims for skin allergies (up 10% from 373,000 in 2022).
• Skin allergies represented 20% of the claims Nationwide received for dogs in 2023.
• Dog parents can expect to pay about $240* for treatment of skin allergies within the first 30 days after diagnosis. Since allergies tend to be chronic, those costs often continue over the dog's life.
• Skin allergies are also among the Top 10 most common claims for cats insured by Nationwide.
• The estimated cost for cats is $289 * within the first 30 days after diagnosis.

Get Nationwide's full Top 10 list of most common claims here.

Understanding Pet Allergies

Allergies in pets can stem from a range of sources, including pollen, dust mites, certain foods, and even flea bites. Symptoms often include itching, redness, skin inflammation, and sometimes secondary infections due to excessive scratching.

While most reactions start out mild, it's wise to consult with a veterinarian if you notice them. They can assess your pet's condition and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options, including determining the cause of the reaction.

It's uncommon, but allergic reactions can progress to a life-threatening emergency if they escalate to anaphylaxis (characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse). Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet shows signs of an allergic reaction, especially if swelling is seen around the face. Early detection and intervention can improve the chances of successful management and prevent complications.

Managing Your Itchy Pet

To help prevent allergy flare-ups, take these steps:

• Reduce allergens indoors: Dust mites can kick allergies into high gear, so vacuum and sanitize your dog's living area frequently and wash pet bedding weekly.
• Avoid allergens outdoors: Steer clear of leaf piles and tall grasses. Wipe your pet's paws after coming inside to get pollen, ragweed, mold spores, and other substances off. (A wet rag, unscented baby wipes, or moist paper towel work fine!)
• Bathe and groom your dog: Use a pet-safe hypoallergenic shampoo and maintain a grooming routine so you can frequently check for irritation.

Resources for Pet Parents

For comprehensive information on pet allergies and how to support your itchy pet, explore Nationwide's Pet HealthZone®.This resource offers valuable insights into recognizing allergy symptoms early, understanding treatment options, and maintaining your pet's overall well-being.

Pet parents can also look up their dog or cat's breed and discover the conditions they are at higher risk for developing (allergies among them!), based on analysis of millions of claims submitted to Nationwide.

This August, let's prioritize understanding and managing our pets' skin health, helping them thrive throughout the year.

*This number was calculated by analyzing the 80th percentile of costs Nationwide pet insurance policyholders reported within the first 30 days after diagnosis for a given condition.