Why your pet’s constant scratching could be more than an itch.

If you’ve ever watched your dog chew at their paws or your cat scratch the same spot repeatedly, you’ll know how helpless it can feel. When our pets are uncomfortable, we feel it too. What many pet parents don’t realise is that these signs often point to an allergy, and just like us, identifying the trigger is key to relief.

“Allergies in pets are far more common than many people think,” says Dr. Guy Fyvie, Senior Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “They can be caused by food, fleas, or environmental factors like pollen or dust, and they’re one of the leading reasons pet parents visit their vet.”

Globally, it’s estimated that up to 20% of dogs and around 10% of cats experience some form of allergic skin condition during their lifetime. But with the right knowledge and the right food, you can help soothe the itch and help your pet live a more comfortable life.

For dogs: The itch that won’t quit

Your dog’s skin is one of the best indicators of their overall health. When something’s off, it usually shows. Persistent itching, licking, or shaking their head can be signs of an allergic reaction caused by:

• Environmental allergens, like pollen, grass, or mould

• Flea bites, which can cause intense irritation even from a single bite

• Food sensitivities, often to proteins such as chicken, beef, or dairy

While it’s not always easy to tell food and environmental allergies apart, allergic dogs are sometimes affected by both. “The first step in managing your dog’s allergy should be feeding a diet that supports their skin health and immune system holistically,” says Dr. Fyvie. “Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete is designed to do just that. It helps manage both environmental and food allergies while promoting a healthy skin barrier.”

Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete contains bioactives and phytonutrients that help reduce the immune response to environmental allergens. It’s also made with a single, highly digestible animal protein source to help minimise food-related reactions. The result is less itching and licking, and visibly healthier skin.

Beyond avoiding allergens, nutrition that strengthens the skin barrier can make a world of difference. A diet rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins E and C   helps support healthy skin with reduced inflammation.

For dogs with diagnosed food or environmental allergies, specialised nutrition such as Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete, Prescription Diet z/d, or Science Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach can form an important part of their management plan, soothing irritation and supporting skin health from within.

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For cats: Subtle signs, big discomfort

Cats tend to suffer in silence. Instead of obvious scratching, they often over-groom, especially around the belly, legs, or tail, leading to bald spots or irritated skin. Some might develop scabs or recurring ear problems, while others show subtle digestive changes like vomiting or soft stools.

Common triggers include:

• Environmental irritants, like dust, cleaning products, or pollen

• Fleas, which can set off intense itching even after one bite

• Food sensitivities, most often to beef, chicken, or fish

“Because cats are such meticulous groomers, pet parents might not immediately notice there’s a problem,” explains Dr. Fyvie. “If you spot hair thinning or red patches, it’s worth having your vet take a closer look.”

A vet may recommend a hydrolysed or limited-ingredient diet such as Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d to minimise signs of adverse food reactions and promote a healthy skin barrier. For cats that are more prone to environmental sensitivities, Hill’s Science Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach can also be beneficial, as it’s formulated with high-quality protein, prebiotic fibre, and essential nutrients to support skin health and digestion. Supporting the skin through nutrition remains key, especially with a diet that includes essential fatty acids and antioxidants.

While allergies can’t always be cured, they can be successfully managed with a holistic approach. “Diet is one piece of the puzzle,” says Dr. Fyvie. “Regular vet check-ups, flea control, and medicated shampoos can all help keep symptoms under control.”

Most importantly, be patient. It can take time to identify what’s causing your pet’s discomfort, but once you do, the difference can be life changing.

As Dr. Fyvie concludes: “Understanding your pet’s allergies empowers you to make changes that improve their comfort and wellbeing. Once you know what’s triggering the reaction, you can take meaningful steps to give them lasting relief.”

For more information, visit www.itchypets.co.za