THE Met Office has issued a “very high” pollen warning across the North West for tomorrow (Wednesday) and is also predicting soaring temperatures for the month ahead.
Over the next few days, the weather is expected to remain changeable with rain and showers expected and average temperatures. But these temperatures become increasingly warm and thundery from Wednesday (June 11) to Friday (June 13).
Weather experts have also predicted high or very high grass pollen and the potential poor air quality at times, advising hay fever sufferers to take precautions in the coming days.
A high pollen count means many people with any sensitivity to pollen will likely experience symptoms, whereas a very high pollen count means that almost everyone who has any sensitivity to pollen will have symptoms.
Hay fever impacts up to one in five people in the UK, but you might be surprised to learn your pet can suffer from it too. While humans typically experience sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes, pets with pollen allergies are more likely to show symptoms through their skin – such as itchiness, redness, or irritation.
As the weather gets warmer and flowers, trees, and grasses release more pollen into the air, your pet’s skin can become increasingly sore and itchy.
Pets at Home Veterinary Services Director, Dr Samantha Butler-Davies MRCVS said: “A very common symptom is itching, so it’s important to watch out for any excessive scratching, nibbling, and licking on areas including their paws, eyes, ears or mouth.
“This can cause your pet’s skin to appear red, sore, or flaky and, in very severe cases, can lead to the skin getting infected and them losing patches of fur. Make sure to seek advice from your vet if the skin becomes particularly inflamed.
“It’s also worth remembering that different kinds of pollen can trigger ‘hay fever’ in your pet, so keeping a diary of their symptoms can help you identify the most probable cause.”
What’s the best way to treat a pet’s ‘hay fever’?
Dr Sam said: “Although there’s no cure for ‘hay fever’ there are things you can do to help treat the symptoms and make your pet more comfortable.
“It’s always best to speak to your vet to understand whether your pet’s symptoms are ‘hay fever’ and then determine which treatments would suit them best. This could include a range of different options, which your vet will discuss with you.
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1 Comment
I have hay fever almost every day of the year now from birch and ash to grass flowers etc. l bulk buy tablets all year round. I used to go through boxes of tissues and wet handkerchiefs, I’d know it was easing off during summer when blood would pour onto my exam papers, there were no meds at the time.