Do you have a pet who is always licking their feet or scratching, even though they don't have fleas? Is the constant licking or scratching driving your cat or dog crazy? What many people don't know is that itchy feet is often a classic symptom of an allergic reaction to pollen.

Many animal lovers don't know that pets can suffer from allergies. Often, pet owners don't know which signs to look out for since cats and dogs experience different reactions to the same things that we're allergic to. Depending on the allergy, a pet may exhibit any of these symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Scratching
• Itchy feet
• Watery eyes
• Constant licking
• Ear infections
• Skin infections
• Asthma-like wheezing
• Scratching or rubbing the face
• Respiratory problems (more common in cats)

Although pets can exhibit any of the above symptoms, the most common symptom is scratching. The concern is that constant scratching can lead to open sores, infected welts, and hair loss.

Causes of Pet Allergies

Pets can be allergic to almost anything that humans are allergic to. Common sources include, dust mites, pollens, and molds. Pets can have allergic reactions to flea bites; this is called flea allergy dermatitis. They can have food allergies, or they can have an allergic reaction to something that they come into contact with.

The most common form of allergy in dogs and cats is called "atopy." Atopy is usually seasonal and if a pet is allergic to ragweed, the symptoms will flare up in the fall. On the other hand, pets who are allergic to tree pollen will typically show signs in April and May.

A pet that is allergic to dust mites may show the greatest signs during the winter months, when they are spending more time indoors.

If you suspect that your pet is suffering from allergies, you should discuss their treatment options with a veterinarian. The type of allergy and the severity of the symptoms will dictate the treatment course.