Cat and dog owners should keep pets indoors ‘until September’

Pet owners have been advised to keep their furry friends indoors during the day over the summer months due to high pollen levels.

A spokesperson from Pets at Home explained pets can experience similar symptoms to humans when it comes to hay fever, including sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose and rashes. The Met Office has outlined the different types of pollen that affect people throughout the year.

Tree pollen is typically present from late March to mid-May, affecting around 25% of people. Grass pollen, which most people are allergic to, has two peaks and lasts from mid-May until July while weed pollen can be released at any time, but the season usually runs from the end of June to September, reports Birmingham Live.

Veterinarian Olivia Anderson-Nathan, from charity PDSA, suggested strategic timing for walks in the early mornings or late evenings to help reduce symptoms. She said: “You can reduce symptoms by taking dogs out when pollen is low” .

In addition to this, regularly washing and vacuuming your pet’s bedding can help remove any pollen that they may have brought in from outside. Adding skin supplements or oils to your pet’s diet can also support their skin health and potentially alleviate allergic reactions associated with hay fever

Everyday Paw Insurance advises removing the allergen trigger and keeping your dog or cat indoors as much as possible during the summer months – especially during and after mowing the lawn. Monitor pollen forecasts and keep your dog indoors when the pollen count is high.

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