Allergy in Cats

Like people, our feline pals can develop allergic reactions. This takes place when their body immune systems end up being sensitive to substances present in their environments. Called irritants, these annoying substances may not trouble you or other animals in your home, but as your feline’s body tries to eliminate the offending compounds, he may reveal all type of symptoms.

Because there is such a variety of allergens, cat allergic reactions are typically divided into 3 primary classifications: flea allergy, ecological allergies (atopic dermatitis), and food allergic reaction. Flea allergy and ecological allergic reactions — the ones that cause “hay fever” symptoms in human beings — are the most typical. Nevertheless, cats typically have multiple allergies, so a thorough examination by your veterinarian or veterinary skin doctor is recommended.

Symptoms

Allergic cats are frequently very itchy and have skin issues associated with allergic dermatitis. They likewise may show some of these symptoms:

  • Sneezing, coughing, and wheezing — specifically if the cat has asthma
  • Itchy, runny eyes
  • Ear infections
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Snoring triggered by an irritated throat
  • Paw chewing or swollen, delicate paws

There are a range of irritants that cause these symptoms:

  • Pollen, turf, plants, mold, mildew, and other organic compounds
  • Food
  • Fragrances and perfumes
  • Fleas or flea-control items
  • Home cleaning items
  • Prescription drugs
  • Some feline litters

Gastrointestinal symptoms generally accompany a food allergy, so it is essential to prevent feeding your feline food to which she or he has a recognized allergy. Likewise, allergic reactions tend to be more typical amongst outside felines since they are exposed to a larger variety of possible allergens, specifically from plants and organic matter.

Read also: Flea meds for cats.

Diagnosis

If something seems making your kitty unpleasant, the best thing to do is pay your veterinarian a visit. He or she will at first do a complete history and physical exam for your cat to figure out the source of the allergic reactions.

If your veterinarian thinks your feline has allergies, he might want to perform blood tests or try out your kitty’s diet to narrow down the cause. Or, if your veterinarian thinks your feline has a skin allergy, your cat may be referred to a veterinary skin specialist.

How Is Allergy in Cats Treated

The best method to treat your feline’s allergic reactions is to remove the allergens from his/her environment. For example, if your feline’s allergies are brought on by fleas, using veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives can remove the cause. If the issue is feline litter, substituting your normal litter for a dust-free option could work. In reality, this may help correct a larger issue if your feline’s been missing his/her litter box.

When it pertains to pollen, fungus, mold, or dust, bathing your feline a few times weekly can assist reduce itching. Your vet can suggest a suitable hair shampoo to help you avoid drying your feline’s skin.

A diagnosis of food allergic reactions might need you to offer your feline with a prescription diet and even home-cooked meals devoid of the offending allergens. Your veterinarian will offer suggestions as to the best course of action. It is possible that your cat will require dietary supplements to guarantee he gets all the vital nutrients he needs.

Allergy Medications for Cat

Medication is in some cases recommended for cats in case certain allergens can not be removed from the environment. Medications consist of:

  • Cortisone, steroids or allergy injections for airborne pollens
  • Antihistamines as a preventative
  • Flea prevention items.

Related article about coughing cats treatment.

How do allergies impact asthma?

If your cat is allergic to toxic wastes, it may aggravate your cat’s asthma. In this case, your veterinarian may recommend medications that open your cat’s respiratory tract for the short-term; long term options include corticosteroids. And here’s an excellent pointer: cigarette smoke is bad for your feline, specifically if your feline has asthma.

Also read: Cat Allergic to Fleas.

D. Roberts (Junior Expert)/ author of the article

He is a specialist in the field of veterinary medicine, and pet care. Believes that the person responsible for each pet, which was taken into the house, and therefore should study his behavior, means of determining health status and methods of first aid.

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