Like you, your cat can be allergic to allergens they can breathe, eat or touch. Read on this article to learn about the most common allergies in cats.
When a cat is allergic, it becomes sensitive to substances in its environment. As your cat tries to process and get rid of these irritating substances, it may display diverse symptoms.
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The Most Common Allergies in Cats?
MOST COMMON ALLERGIES IN CATS
There are 4 types of common allergies in cats:
- Environmental Allergies
- Flea Allergies
- Food Allergies
- Seasonal Allergies
ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGY
The most common environmental substances that cause allergies are:
POLLEN
Allergies to pollen from flowers, trees, and grasses are common in cats. Affected cats lick, chew, and scratch anywhere on their bodies and, in severe cases, can cause serious skin damage. These allergies often come with the seasons, but the symptoms become an ongoing problem for some cats, especially aging cats.
The best way to determine what your furry friend might be allergic to is to perform an allergy skin or blood test.
How can you prevent your cat from having pollen allergies?
- To prevent your cat from coming into contact with pollen, keep your cat indoors with the windows closed.
- Using an air conditioner or air filter during problem times can reduce your cat’s exposure to pollen.
- Bath your cat regularly or wipe her with a damp cloth to help remove the pollen.
- To help your cat’s allergy, the vet could prescribe antihistamines, immunosuppressive medications, and other treatments.
HOUSE ALLERGENS
Also, cats can suffer from allergies to household allergens such as mold, dust, house mites, etc.
The symptoms of indoor allergies are similar to environmental allergies, except does not last throughout the year.
Your veterinarian can determine if your cat has indoor allergies using a skin or blood test.
PERFUME
Some cats are sensitive to perfumes from cat litter, cleaning products, air sprays, carpet powders, or dryer sheets. Try switching to unscented products to see if your cat’s symptoms disappear.
FLEA ALLERGIES
When a flea bites your cat, it causes an allergic reaction that can be irritating. Saliva from a flea bite can affect a cat’s entire body. Your veterinarian can help you choose the right flea prevention product to help protect your cat.
FOOD ALLERGIES
Allergies to certain food ingredients are another type of feline allergy. These allergies can cause itchy skin, vomiting, or diarrhea. Cats can develop food allergies at any age, even if they have been eating the same food for years or recently started eating something new.
Your vet can help you solve which foods irritate your cat and create an appropriate diet.
SEASONAL ALLERGIES
Did you know that your beloved feline friend can be susceptible to allergies during the spring when the flowers begin to bloom, the trees bud, and the grass grows?
Seasonal allergies often manifest in cats as a condition known as feline atopic dermatitis.
When your cat has seasonal allergy she doesn’t develop a runny nose, itchy eyes, and watery sinuses like you would, but signs of allergy appear on your cat’s skin. The longer your furry friend is exposed to the allergen, the worse the reaction.
Atopic dermatitis can develop skin sores, scabs, hair loss, and redness.
What should you do when your cat has seasonal allergies?
There are supplements and medications your vet can recommend that can help your cat overcome seasonal allergies.
Give your cat a bath to remove all allergens. Avoid bathing her frequently as it can cause dryness and irritation. An alternative is to clean your cat’s fur with a warm damp cloth.
Keep your home dust-free and keep your windows closed to prevent allergy-causing molecules from entering your home.
You can also help your kitten by strengthening the immune system. Use a proper diet free of inflammatory foods to keep your cat’s immune system healthy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MOST COMMON ALLERGIES IN CATS
How do Know My Cat Has Allergies?
If your feline friend has allergies, some of the most common allergic reactions produce the following symptoms:
- Sneezing and coughing
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Ear infections
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Snoring
- Swollen and tender legs
- Excessive licking (grooming)
- Red or dry skin
- Scratch
What Should I Do If I Think My Cat Has Allergies?
If you suspect your cat has allergies, visit your vet.
Since there are many different forms of allergies, your vet can help you diagnose the causes and determine the appropriate treatment.
How is Cat Allergy Diagnosed?
The most common allergy tests are blood tests or skin tests.
How to Treat Cat Allergies?
If you’re helping your cat manage her allergies, the best thing you can do is prevent allergens from coming into contact with your cat. For example, you can:
- Use a veterinarian-approved flea and tick control product.
- Bathe your cat to relieve itching.
- Keep your home clean from dust and mold.
- Wash your cat’s bedding regularly.
- Provide your cat with a healthy diet. Your veterinarian may provide your cat with a daily prescription or dietary supplements.
- Use unscented cat litter.
- Avoid smoking around your pets.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAT ALLERGY MEDICATIONS
There are different medications available to treat cat allergies. The most common are:
- Antihistamines
- Flea Prevention Products
- Lotions, ointments, ear drops, or eye drops
- Cortisone pills (medicine for itching)
Always check with your veterinarian before giving your cat any medication.