Skin allergies rank among rank among the most common conditions in dogs and cats, pet insurance data shows

A recent Nationwide report has revealed that skin allergies have been the #1 claim in dogs with Nationwide Pet insurance for 13 consecutive years. In 2024, Nationwide’s pet insurance division received more than 450,000 individual claims in skin allergies for cats and dogs, marking a 13% increase from claims made for the condition in 2023.¹

In 2024 alone, skin allergies made up 16% of all dog-related claims at Nationwide Pet,¹ with the skin condition being #10 in most common claims for cats with the insurance.² The company estimates that treating skin allergies in canines costs dog owners approximately $266 within the first 30 days after diagnosis and up to $841 after 1 year. For cats, the price is estimated to be $318 within the first 30 days after diagnosis and is projected to reach $592 after a year.¹ 

Photo: RooM The Agency/Adobe Stock

Educating clients about skin allergies in pets, including their symptoms and other signs to watch out for, is important given their high prevalence and economic and emotional impact. “By educating pet parents to observe shifts in frequency, intensity, or pattern, we can empower pet families to manage their pets optimally at home and understand when to bring us into the care plan,” Emily M. Tincher, DVM, chief veterinary officer at Nationwide, told dvm360 in an email communication.

“Itchy skin is the most common condition we see affecting dogs. Often, when a pet is diagnosed with skin allergies, it is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care,” said Tincher in a news release.¹ “The financial impact can be just as concerning as the diagnosis of chronic conditions. Understanding this and planning can help pet parents navigate these challenges and ensure their pet receives the care they need.”

Some of the environmental triggers of allergies in cats and dogs include pollen, dust mites, certain foods, flea bites, and more. Symptoms may include itching; redness or skin irritation; skin infections due to excessive scratching; a rash on the feet, ears, face, base of tail, toes, or abdomen; scooting; bald spots/hair loss; pawing at ears; head shaking; vomiting or diarrhea; and more.^1,3

Although rare, allergic reactions can become life-threatening if they progress to anaphylaxis, which may cause vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse. Patients exhibiting signs of an allergic reaction, particularly facial swelling or other severe signs should receive prompt veterinary attention.

“Many allergy symptoms in cats and dogs are so subtle they’re often chalked up to routine behavior—like a cat’s excessive grooming or a dog’s persistent paw licking. Skin allergies are a year-round and chronic condition, but Nationwide pet insurance claims for the condition do increase by nearly 10% in the spring and summer months,” Tincher told dvm360.

“Skin allergies often start subtly, with increased licking, scratching, or localized redness,” she continued. “Pet parents are the first to notice these early shifts in behavior and appearance, which makes their observations invaluable. When veterinary teams empower clients with knowledge about breed predispositions, environmental triggers, and skin barrier health, it opens the door to timely interventions and effective topical care. And because dermatology cases can be emotionally draining, empathetic statements from the team and adjustments to the care plan can make all the difference.”

To help prevent and reduce allergy flare-ups, outdoor exposure should be limited. Pets should avoid leaf piles and tall grasses. It is also recommended to wipe the pet’s paws after walks to clean off pollen, ragweed, mold spores, and other allergens.¹ Additionally, bathing dogs with a pet-safe hypoallergenic shampoo and upholding a grooming routine to help check for irritation may also help.¹

Still, veterinary teams play an essential role in the management and prevention of skin allergies in pets. “Educating pet parents on what management truly involves, from regular bathing and ear cleaning to maintaining flea and itch control and using appropriate topical treatments, can make a big impact,” Tincher expressed.

References

1. Kleven L. The itch you can fix: A guide to managing Itchy Pet Month. July 28, 2025. Accessed August 11, 2025. https://news.nationwide.com/a-guide-to-managing-itchy-pet-month/?utm_source=prpitch
2. Kleven L. What is most likely to send your pet to the veterinarian? Nationwide. March 19, 2025. Accessed August 8, 2025. https://news.nationwide.com/what-is-most-likely-to-send-your-pet-to-the-veterinarian/?utm_source=prn
3. Allergies & skin issues in pets. Oregon Veterinary Medical Association. August 24, 2022. Accessed August 11, 2025. https://www.oregonvma.org/care-health/companion-animals/health-safety/allergies-skin-issues-in-pets