How to Calm Your Pet’s Itching: Topical Remedies for Itchy Dogs and Cats
Scratch… .scratch… .scratch… … This must be SO difficult to cope with: both for our pets with allergies, and their owners 🙁
Fortunately there are many holistic options, but so often we forget about the basics.
Orally you should consider a natural antihistamine such as Quercetin – our Quercetin supplement is getting some great reviews as it is stopping the itch! It’s here:
Your pet requires well-hydrated skin with a strong skin barrier to manage allergies effectively. It’s crucial to keep the allergens washed off regularly. A simple and effective way to achieve this is through the use of a quality, pet-specific shampoo designed to balance your dog’s skin pH and add moisture back into the skin.
Dr. Jones’ Complete 5 in 1 Pet Wash
Dr. Jones’ Complete 5 in 1 Pet Wash is an all-natural shampoo and conditioner that helps to moisturize and lock in water, making it an excellent choice for any allergic pet. You can find this product here.
Understanding Atopic Dermatitis (Environmental Allergy)
Previously, it was thought that allergens causing Atopic Dermatitis were primarily inhaled. Now, it’s believed these allergens are absorbed through the skin, triggering an inappropriate immune response in dogs. Symptoms include scratching, hair loss, odor, ear infections, paw licking, anal licking, redness (especially in the groin), and the blackening and thickening of skin.
Topical Solutions for Allergic Reactions
Regular Paw Washing
Regularly washing your dog’s paws after being outdoors is one of the best ways to decrease itching by washing off outdoor allergens. Use a damp cloth or give your pup a quick bath.
Herbal Creams
Consider using topical herbal solutions such as licorice gel, chamomile cream, and burdock. Studies show that licorice gel, available in 1% and 2% solutions, can be more effective than placebo in treating eczema after two weeks.
Over-The-Counter Anti-Itch Cream
1% Hydrocortisone cream is safe to use on pets with inflamed skin. Apply a small layer over the affected area twice daily for 14 days.
Propolis: Bee Glue for Dogs and Cats
Propolis has antimicrobial properties that may protect bees from pathogens and is beneficial for pets with skin inflammation. Applying propolis spray twice daily can also be effective for treating hot spots.
Topical Fats for Skin Health
Natural ceramides like sunflower oil improve epidermal barrier function. Apply 5-10 drops over the spine daily for 30 days and assess the improvement.
DIY Remedies for Pet Allergies
Stinky Dog Shampoo Remedy
- 1 cup of green tea
- 2 tablespoons of castile soap
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (ACV)
Mix these ingredients to create a shampoo that combats bacteria, yeast, and swelling.
DIY Allergy Cream
Mix the following ingredients and warm them until they liquefy:
- 3 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
- 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- 1 tablespoon of shea butter
- 2 tablespoons of beeswax
Pour the mixture into a mason jar, allow it to cool in the fridge, and apply it twice daily to affected areas.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pet Shampoo
Selecting the right shampoo is critical for maintaining your pet’s skin health. Dr. Jones’ Complete 5 in 1 Pet Wash offers an all-natural solution that preserves the natural oils of your pet’s skin while removing allergens, without the harsh chemicals found in other shampoos.
Find more about this product and purchase it here.
P.S. In veterinary practice we didn’t pay enough attention to the simple basics of using holistic products such as Quercetin to decrease inflammation, and keeping the skin hydrated and strong. So often the 1st thing we jumped to was steroids, or some NEW drug to just STOP the itch.
P.P.S. A natural antihistamine and quality shampoo can make a HUGE difference.
Dr. Jones’Extra StrengthUltimate BioActive Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant with antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties
Dr. Jones’ Complete 5 in 1 Pet Wash is an all-natural shampoo and conditioner that will moisturize and lock in water, being an awesome option for any allergic pet.