Do spring and fall bring to mind your hay fever — the sneezing, sniffles and red, runny, itchy eyes? Well, your pet can have allergies, too, but he or she displays them differently.

Dogs' and cats' reaction to allergens — the offending source — causes histamine release from mast cells in their skin to cause severe itching. This is why your allergic pet licks, chews and scratches; pulls his hair out and might cause his own "hot spots" by chewing himself raw.

Over time, the hair coat may become stained a brownish-red color from the constant licking. Chronic skin irritation and inflammation can lead to secondary bacterial and yeast infections that require antibiotics or anti-yeast drugs to treat. Secondary ear infections are also common.

The primary cause of allergies in cats and dogs are these: atopy — inhalant allergies to airborne pollens; flea allergy (we'll cover this later); and food allergy (we'll cover later).

Less common allergies are hypersensitive reactions, caused by insect bites, and contact allergies. These are usually stronger reactions that occur suddenly and might require emergency treatment. The pattern of itchiness on your pet's body can often help your veterinarian determine what type of allergy he has.

Pets are frequently allergic to the same inhaled allergens that affect us. These include tree pollens, grass, molds, mildew and house dust mites. In Florida, due to our tropical environment, we are exposed to these allergens year-round, not just in spring and fall like our Northern neighbors.

Because allergens elicit a histamine reaction, we often use antihistamines or corticosteroids to treat this problem. Steroids are effective, but they must be used with caution because of their adverse effects.

More recently, cyclosporine, a prescription drug, has been approved for use in atopic dogs. Fatty-acid supplements can frequently decrease the inflammation of allergies, too. There are a multitude of topical medications to help alleviate your pet's itchiness, from steroid sprays to oatmeal-based shampoos to leave-on conditioners.

Due to the abundance of over-the-counter products, it's probably best to ask your veterinarian what he or she recommends.

A final option for allergy treatment is desensitization: Test first, to identify the allergen, and then get allergy shots. You should see a veterinary dermatologist for this treatment.

The big thing to remember about allergies is this: You cannot cure them but you can control them. Learn to recognize the symptoms early — and stop the itch before it gets out of control.