27. May 2026
How to Manage Itching in Dogs and Cats, Holistically
If your pet is itchy, here is a simple step-by-step approach to helping them improve long-term (and not just cover symptoms!)
Step 1: Evaluate the skin for infections including bacteria, yeast, fleas and other parasites.
Step 2: Treat what is found to resolution (i.e. make sure to come back for that recheck!)
Step 3: Address the underlying problem if this is a recurring issue for your pet.
The usual underlying problems:
- Flea allergy
- Food allergy
- Environmental allergy (officially named Atopic Dermatitis)
Addressing the underlying problems:
You will need the help of a veterinarian to conclusively rule out flea and food allergies. Once that has been done and you KNOW you are dealing with an environmental allergy, here is a list of management strategies I often recommend:
- Bathe regularly with a soothing or medicated shampoo depending on your pet’s skin testing results (step 1).
- Dose omega-3s at around 50 mg/kg/day EPA + DHA. I prefer to use Standard Process VF Omega-3 (Access code is 4SFK46).
- Include gut healing products such as Skin Rescue and a Fecal Microbiome Transplant.
- Feed a low-inflammation diet that supports microbiome health. This varies depending on the needs of your pet, but Chi Dog makes great whole food diets that are lightly cooked. This is a good place to start.
- Regularly check for internal parasites (fecal exams).
- Test skin for infections if your pet has any flare-ups. Ensuring these infections are promptly treated will help reduce the long-term impacts of inflammation. Ideally treat any infections with topical options. Avoid oral antibiotic use wherever possible.
- Address any toxins in the environment (such as mold, pollution, etc) - read more here.
If your pet is itchy and you need help, reach out at consultaholisticvet@gmail.com. I would love to help your pet feel more comfortable in their skin!