There isn't a quick cure for hives, but you can relieve the itching until they go away. Over-the-counter antihistamines can be very effective. Vets often recommend giving antihistamines containing diphenhydramine (such as Benadryl) to dogs. The usual dose is one milligram for every pound of dog, three times a day, says Karen L. Campbell, D.V.M., associate professor of dermatology and small animal internal medicine at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine at Urbana-Champaign. For cats, vets recommend Chlor-Trimeton. You can give half of a four-milligram tablet for every 10 pounds of cat, twice a day, she says. Check with your vet to make sure that the dose is right for your pet.
Ointments to stop itching don't always work because dogs and cats tend to lick them off. If your pet will leave it alone, however, over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointment can be very helpful. It will quickly stop the inflammation and irritation that lead to itching. "Coating the hives with a baking-soda-and-water paste can also bring your pet relief," says Dr. Scheele. Cool baths with an oatmeal shampoo and cream rinse -- or simply a five-minute soak in cool water to which you have added a little colloidal oatmeal (like Aveeno) are time-tested ways to ease itching. Many owners may feel, however, that these are a lot of work for a problem that will be gone in a day or two anyway.
The one time that you should definitely give your pet a bath, or a least a thorough washing, is when you suspect that the hives are caused by direct contact with an irritating substance -- chemicals on the lawn, for example. Washing her thoroughly with a mild soap will remove any lingering substances before they have time to cause more itching.
Even though hives are nearly always harmless, sometimes they are only the beginning of a more serious allergic reaction. "If she shows any signs of breathing trouble, like coughing or breathing rapidly, or if she is having an allergic reaction that does not immediately respond to antihistamines, rush her to the vet immediately," Dr. Rizzitano says.
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