A practical guide to tell mild from serious — but when in doubt, always ask your vet.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual
Self-care and monitoring — see a vet if it does not settle — For most cases, follow the home-care steps below and call your vet the same day if warning signs appear.
Occasional scratching is normal. Constant scratching, biting, licking paws, or rubbing the face often means allergies, parasites or a skin infection.
Contact your vet if any of these apply:
Check for fleas and bathe with a gentle pet shampoo if needed. Do not self-medicate. If itching persists beyond a few days, see your vet.
Your vet can identify the cause — parasites, allergy or infection — and prescribe the right treatment plan.
Only under your vet’s direction. Many human allergy medicines are unsafe for pets or contain ingredients that are toxic. Ask before dosing.
Fleas are easy to miss, and one bite can trigger weeks of itching in allergic pets. Other causes include food allergies, mites, fungal infections or skin infections — your vet can help identify it.
Same symptom in Cat: see Cat Skin Itching — causes and home care can differ by species.
This page is educational triage information, not a diagnosis. Pets vary — when in doubt, ask your vet. In an emergency, contact your local emergency clinic or pet poison hotline directly.