As I’ve been waking up lately, I can’t help but notice my dog licking her paws and groin… lick… lick… lick. It’s definitely not good for her—and honestly, it’s not good for me either. If your pet has been doing the same, you’re probably familiar with the frustration of dealing with constant itching.

Why Does Your Pet Scratch So Much?

The most common reason our pets scratch or lick excessively is due to allergies. Just like humans, pets can suffer from allergic reactions, which often result in persistent itching, discomfort, and licking.

How to Manage Your Pet’s Allergies

Managing your pet’s allergies can be tricky, but it’s best approached in multiple ways. One of the most effective methods is by introducing a natural antihistamine to your pet’s routine. A great option is Quercetin, a bioflavonoid found in common foods like apple peels and red onions.

Introducing Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Bioactive Quercetin for Dogs and Cats

We now have a Quercetin supplement that has been receiving fantastic reviews from pet parents dealing with itchy pets! Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Bioactive Quercetin for Dogs and Cats is a great addition to your pet’s allergy management plan, helping to reduce itching and inflammation naturally.

Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Bioactive Quercetin for Dogs and Cats Awesome Reviews

Give it a try and see the difference it can make for your pet’s comfort and happiness!

8 Most Important Home Remedies to STOP Your Dog or Cat from Itching

Itching and scratching can make your pet uncomfortable and even frustrated. If your dog or cat is constantly scratching or biting at their skin, they may be dealing with allergies. I want to help you understand the symptoms and provide effective remedies to relieve their discomfort.

Pet Allergy Symptoms to Look For:

If your pet is suffering from allergies, here are some common signs to watch for:

• Scratching and biting their coat or skin
• Red, inflamed, or infected skin
• Excessive shedding
• Compulsive paw licking in dogs
• Boot scooting or licking their anal glands
• Chronic ear infections or red, waxy ears (especially in dogs prone to ear problems)
• Respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing (more common in cats)

While allergies are more common in dogs, some cats can also suffer from them. Environmental allergies, known as atopy, often begin as seasonal issues (e.g., when plants grow and pollinate) but can become a year-round concern.

Top 8 Effective Remedies for Itchy Pets

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Omega-3s are one of the most effective remedies for pet allergies. The anti-inflammatory components of EFAs, specifically EPA and DHA, can significantly reduce redness and scratching.

However, it’s crucial to use a higher dose than what’s typically recommended and to choose the right type of Omega-3. New research suggests that krill oil may be better absorbed, providing better results. If you use fish oil supplements, I recommend a dose of 1000mg per 20 lbs of body weight daily. If using krill oil, start with 500mg per 20 lbs daily, but if there’s no significant improvement after 14 days, increase the dose to 1000mg per 20 lbs daily.

2. Antihistamines

Antihistamines can be helpful for managing allergy symptoms in pets. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is one of the most commonly used antihistamines, with a recommended dose of 1 mg per pound of body weight, 2-3 times daily.

I’ve also found Ceterizine (Zyrtec) to be effective. It’s a 24-hour antihistamine that causes fewer side effects than Benadryl. I use it for my dogs and cats at a dose of 5 mg/10 lbs once daily. As always, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new medication. Antihistamines often take 14 days to show noticeable improvements.

3. Herbal Antihistamines – Nettle

If you prefer a natural approach, Nettle is an excellent herbal antihistamine. Studies have shown its effectiveness in managing allergies, and it’s rich in nutrients such as Vitamins A, C, K, B, calcium, magnesium, iron, quercetin, and carotenoids. It also offers added nutrition for your pet’s diet.

I recommend giving 1 teaspoon of nettle per 10 lbs daily for allergy relief.

4. Topical Hydrocortisone (1%)

For quick, local relief of inflammation, 1% hydrocortisone creams can be very effective. I’ve used these successfully with my animals to alleviate itching and inflammation. However, hydrocortisone should not be used long-term, and I suggest limiting its use to 5 days in a row to avoid side effects.

5. Licorice Root

Licorice root is considered a “natural steroid" and can be very helpful in relieving itching. It’s particularly effective for fast relief of itching symptoms, as I’ve seen with my own dog. I recommend using the tincture at a dose of ½ ml per 20 lbs twice daily.

Use with caution if your pet has underlying organ dysfunction, and limit its use to 14 days in a row.

6. CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis, has become a go-to remedy for decreasing inflammation and pain, especially for seasonal allergies. My brother’s dog, Angus, experiences a dramatic decrease in itching when on CBD.

The typical dosage is 3 mg per 10 lbs twice daily. Many pet owners find it helpful for managing itching associated with allergies.

7. Soy for Itch Relief

Beta-sitosterol, a sterol found in soy, has been shown to help decrease itchiness (pruritus) in dogs. It’s most commonly used in humans to lower cholesterol and improve symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Studies suggest it can also improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis in animals.

I recommend a dose of 1-2 mg per lb twice daily of Beta-sitosterol. The supplement I use is Beta-Sitosterol Plant Sterols by Now, which comes in soft gel form.

8. Bioflavonoids – Quercetin

Quercetin, a powerful bioflavonoid, has been extensively studied for its benefits in managing seasonal allergies. It’s found in foods like apple peels and red onions. Quercetin acts as a natural antihistamine and possesses high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The standard dose is 100 mg per 10 lbs daily, but for the bioavailable form of quercetin (such as the one I recommend), you can give 50 mg per 15 lbs daily.

Heal Your Pet At Home!

These remedies have been incredibly effective in relieving itching and allergy symptoms in my pets, and I’m confident they’ll help your dog or cat as well. Always remember to consult your veterinarian before starting any new treatments, especially if you’re unsure about dosage or side effects.

P.S.
I could have really used some of these remedies just a few days ago after getting a surf rash! But I did find that aloe helped a lot.

P.P.S.
If you’re looking for a natural option to help your itchy pet, check out Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Bioactive Quercetin for Dogs and Cats. This whole-plant extract combines all parts of the plant to offer maximum benefits. It’s a favorite among many pet parents!