Flea bite allergy, also known as flea allergy dermatitis or bite hypersensitivity, is a seasonal allergy. The worst times of year for dogs and cats with flea bite allergies is the summer and fall — peak flea times. Even in temperate areas, summer and fall seem to be worse than the rest of the year for flea bite allergies.
Flea saliva contains more than fifteen different potential allergens. Any or all of these can cause an allergic reaction in a sensitive dog or cat. Once a pet develops a sensitivity to flea bites, it is rare for them to stop being sensitive. Flea bite allergies can be made worse by inhaled allergies.
A dog or cat that is not sensitive to flea bites will bite or scratch at a bite. A dog or cat that has flea allergy dermatitis may develop lesions from the bites. A single bite can cause hours or days of intense itching! Many dogs demonstrate reactions to flea bites near the base of their tails; some itch all over and experience hair loss. Flea bite allergies can lead to the development of hot spots, too. Cats with flea allergy dermatitis may develop skin lesions and experience hair loss.
Your veterinarian will do a physical examination to determine the presence of fleas or flea waste on your pet. Intradermal skin testing may also be used to confirm an allergy, though false negative results are possible.
The best thing you can do for a pet with flea allergy dermatitis is keep the fleas away! Choose a product that both repels and kills fleas for your allergic pet. Treat occasional flare-ups with antihistamines or steroids to relieve itching and inflammation. Be sure that all your pets are on flea prevention programs, not just the ones with allergy issues. Be sure your home and yard are free of fleas, too.
Tips on managing fleas naturally, without chemicals.