Rolling around on the grass, brushing up against trees and having a good scratch behind the ears sounds like normal pet behaviour, but these actions could be a sign that your pet has more than just regular itchy skin. Just like humans, skin allergies in pets can be common, despite most of their skin being hidden by their fur. In this Vetsure for Kids article and accompanying Pet Pack, we’ll give you the facts about common skin allergies in pets, as well as how to explain this change to your little ones.

Recognising Skin Allergies in Pets

As our pet’s skin is usually hidden by fur, it can sometimes be difficult to recognise when their skin is reacting to something. Common signs you can pick up on are excessive scratching, or rolling around on the grass. Some pets may even brush up against trees or bushes to scratch their itches, and although this can be quite normal for pets, they shouldn’t be doing it all the time! A few other typical signs of skin allergies in pets can be gnawing on paws or legs. You may also notice underneath their fur that their skin appears red or bumpy. The best thing to do if you think your pet is itching too much, is to take them to the vests for an examination. Prior to this, it may be a good idea to keep an eye on your pet and note their behaviour so you can inform the vet at your visit. Take note of what they’re eating and coming into contact with as one of these things may be causing their allergies.

Once you have visited the vet and they’ve given a diagnosis, there may be some changes that need to happen to ensure your pet is happy and healthy. Not only will this be a learning curve for you, but your little ones will also need to know how to care for their pet to make sure their allergies are kept at bay.

Useful tips and reminders when dealing with skin allergies in pets

It may be difficult for your children to understand what’s going on, so we have a few useful tips to help you explain why your pet’s feeling this way. An easy way to explain the concept of skin allergies in pets is similar to how a nettle sting can make human skin feel, it’s sore and itchy and it can be difficult to think about anything else! This is how your pet will be feeling!

So, what can your children do to help:

  1. Your pet may need medicine, which should be handled with care! Only grown ups should be allowed to give your pet their medicine as it can be dangerous for children.
  2. If your pet’s feeling particularly sore, then try to give them space and not hug or stroke them as this could make them feel uncomfortable.
  3. Only feed your pet foods that are safe! They may need special diet food or treats, so always check with a grown up before you feed your pet as it could make them feel sore and itchy.
  4. It may be a good idea to keep a diary for your pet to see how they’re getting on. You can find a template in our downloadable Pet Pack.

Vetsure for Kids Pet Packs

Our Vetsure for Kids Pet Pack includes lots of helpful tips for understanding skin allergies in pets and explains what your children can do to help. These packs are written in a child-friendly manner, and include fun activities for your children to complete. At the end of the booklet, you will find a certificate which can be awarded to your children for all their hard work caring for their furry friend!

Download your free Vetsure for Kids Pet Pack to help your little one learn about skin allergies in pets, designed by our Senior Claims Assessor, Veterinary Nurse, mum and pet owner, Amey Montgomery.

Pet Insurance

All pets are a joy to have, but it’s important to keep them covered if they were ever to get ill or become injured. Rest assured with Vetsure Pet Insurance, all of our policies are life long, so your pet can be covered for their whole life with an active policy.

Get a Vetsure Pet Insurance quote, or give our friendly customer service team a call on 0800 050 2022, to find out more.