If you’ve already started noticing the sniffles or itchy eyes, brace yourself: 2025 is expected to be a tough year for allergy sufferers, with higher-than-average pollen counts across the U.S., including Southern California. If you’re stocking up on antihistamines, you’re not alone… But what about your furry friends? Let’s dive into the pollen forecast for the season and how to protect both you and your pet.
What to expect for spring 2025?
The AAFA’s 2025 Allergy Capitals, report, states that 2025 will likely be a particularly rough year for seasonal allergies. Pollen counts are predicted to be higher than average in 39 states, with SoCal seeing its share of the pollen surge.
Tree pollen, which tends to be the first to cause problems in spring, is already starting to make its presence felt. After tree pollen, grass pollen takes over Southern California, where we can expect an increase in grass pollen as the season moves into late spring and early summer.
Is allergy season getting worse?
It’s not your imagination: seasonal allergies are getting longer and more severe. Research from Climate Central reveals that 87% of the nearly 200 cities studied have seen their allergy seasons worsen since the 1970s.
The reason? Climate change. Warmer temperatures and an earlier arrival of spring give trees, weeds, and grass a longer growing season, which means more time for pollen to spread. In addition, increased carbon dioxide in the air is causing plants like ragweed to grow larger and produce more pollen, exacerbating the problem.
How to protect yourself from pollen
While there’s no magic cure for allergies, there are a few steps you can take to minimize symptoms and feel better during peak pollen season. However, these tips in no way replace a consultation with a healthcare provider, which we strongly recommend.
- Track pollen levels: Keep an eye on the daily pollen forecast in your area. This way, you can plan your outdoor activities and try to stay inside when pollen levels are at their highest.
- Limit outdoor exposure: Try to stay indoors during peak pollen times, usually early morning and late afternoon. If you need to be outside, wear sunglasses and a hat to reduce pollen exposure.
- Shower and change clothes: After spending time outdoors, rinse off pollen from your skin and hair, and change your clothes to avoid bringing allergens inside.
- Use air purifiers: Consider investing in an air purifier for your home to help filter out pollen and other allergens.
- Over-the-counter medications: Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can help manage symptoms. Consult with your doctor about the best options for you.
How to protect your pet from pollen?
It’s not just you, your pets can suffer from allergies as well. Just like humans, animals can react to pollen, as Animal Humane Society explains, but the symptoms may look a little different. Pet owners may not always recognize that their furry friends are struggling with seasonal allergies, so it’s important to watch for signs like:
- Itchiness and excessive licking
- Red or inflamed skin, hot spots, or hives
- Swollen or watery eyes
- Face swelling or irritation
- Scratching and biting at paws or fur
Just as with humans, minimizing exposure is key when it comes to protecting your pets from pollen allergies. Here are a few ways to keep your pets comfortable:
- Regular grooming: Bathe your pet regularly with a hypoallergenic shampoo to remove pollen from their fur. Be sure to clean their paws, ears, and face to reduce the allergens they carry inside.
- Supplements: Adding fatty acid supplements to your pet’s diet can help strengthen their skin and reduce inflammation. Consult your vet for recommendations.
- Flea prevention: Flea allergies are common in pets and can worsen during allergy season. Keep your pet on regular flea prevention medication to avoid allergic reactions.
- Monitor symptoms: Keep an eye on your pet for any changes in behavior or health, especially if they have a history of allergies.
As usual, when in doubt, always consult your pet’s veterinarian.