Cat Allergies

Is your cat constantly sneezing, scratching, or exhibiting other signs of discomfort? If so, allergies may be to blame. Cat allergies are common, and understanding how they can affect your pet’s health and well-being is vital.

At Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital, we know that caring for a cat with allergies isn’t easy. That’s why we strive to provide expert advice for pet owners to help them do what’s best for their furry family members. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cat allergies, including how to diagnose and treat them. From preventive care to common treatments, we’ll help you understand what you can do to help keep your cat feeling their best.

How Do Allergies Impact the Health and Well-Being of My Cat?

Allergies can cause multiple problems in cats, including skin irritation, respiratory symptoms, and digestive problems. Allergens, such as pollen, grass, dust mites, and even human dander, can trigger an overreaction of a cat’s immune system. This often causes unpleasant symptoms like coughing, wheezing, hives, itchy and red eyes, red and irritated skin, runny nose, and sneezing. In some cases, untreated allergies cause hair loss or open sores that can lead to secondary bacterial skin infections. Cats with allergies may also have trouble breathing or sleeping due to shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing. Food allergies, typically to a protein in the diet, can cause upset stomach symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, or itchy skin and rashes.

What Preventive Care Can I Provide My Cat to Help Avoid Allergies?

Preventive care is crucial when it comes to minimizing your cat’s risk of allergies. Here are some tips for preventive care:

• Regular grooming: Brush your cat daily to remove loose hair and dander. This can help minimize allergens in your cat’s environment, reducing allergy symptoms for your feline friend and the other members of your household. Grooming also distributes natural oils in your cat's skin, which can lead to a healthier coat and less shedding.
• Bathing: Bathe your cat using a gentle pet shampoo formulated for cats. Never use dog shampoo as it can be toxic to cats. This can help reduce allergens on their fur and skin. Talk to your vet for additional advice on what type of shampoo to use and how often to bathe your feline friend. Your vet may even recommend a medicated shampoo or one that helps with itch.
• Clean living environment: Vacuum your home frequently to remove cat hair and dander and other things your pet may be allergic to. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture the even smallest allergens. Consider using HEPA air purifiers in your home to further reduce airborne allergens.
• Washable pet bedding: Choose bedding that is washable and launder it regularly to remove allergens. This helps keep your cat's sleeping area clean and allergen-free.
• Diet and nutrition: A healthy diet can contribute to a healthier coat and skin for your cat, which may help reduce shedding and dander. Consult with your veterinarian for the best diet for your cat, including any supplements that could benefit their skin and coat health.
• Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular check-ups with your veterinarian ensure early detection of allergy symptoms. Your vet will determine what’s causing your cat’s symptoms and provide treatment options.

What Are Some Signs and Symptoms That My Cat May Have Allergies?

Allergies in cats can manifest in various ways, creating dermatologic conditions, problems with the respiratory system, or digestive issues. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of cat allergies:

• Itching and skin issues: Cats with allergies may experience intense itching, either localized to one area or generalized all over the body. This may lead to excessive grooming, hair loss, open sores, or scabs on the skin. Red or dry skin can also indicate allergies.
• Respiratory symptoms: Allergies can also affect a cat’s respiratory system, resulting in coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. There may be nasal or ocular (eye) discharge.
• Digestive symptoms: Many cats experience digestive issues due to allergies. These issues often include vomiting, gas, and diarrhea.
• Ear infections: Cats with allergies are more prone to ear infections which manifest as itchy ears and otic (ear) discharge.
• Swollen, sensitive paws: If your cat has allergies, they may develop swollen and/or sensitive paws.

Why Is It Important to Avoid Self-Diagnosing Allergies in My Cat?

Self-diagnosing allergies in cats can lead to misinterpretation of symptoms and incorrect treatments, potentially worsening the condition. Only a professional veterinarian can diagnose allergies in your cat and provide proper treatment.

Cat allergy symptoms vary and may include sneezing, coughing, wheezing, itchy eyes, and skin rash or hives — all of which could also be symptoms of parasites, infections, and other health conditions. Your veterinarian can determine what’s causing your cat’s symptoms and develop a customized treatment plan based on their individual needs.

Administering the wrong treatment based on self-diagnosis is, at best, ineffective and, at worse, dangerous. Giving your cat the wrong treatment could cause worsening symptoms or additional health problems. To ensure proper care for your pet’s allergies, seek advice from a professional veterinarian who has specialized training and experience in diagnosing and treating allergies.

How Will a Veterinarian Diagnose Whether or Not My Cat Has Allergies?

Veterinarians use various diagnostic methods to determine the cause of a cat’s allergies, including blood tests, intradermal skin tests, and elimination diets.

The first step is ruling out non-allergenic causes. Your veterinarian may perform skin scrapings to identify mange, fungal cultures to identify ringworm, and other tests based on your cat's history and clinical signs.

Once other options are ruled out, your vet may utilize Nextmune allergy testing which is a blood test to confirm whether your pet is allergic and which allergens are causing the symptoms. This test is the first commercial serological IgE-specific test that tests for molecular components (the real proteins to which animals are allergic) to identify which allergens are affecting pets. Your vet will take a small blood sample to be sent to the lab to look for antibodies against different allergens. If the level of antibodies is above a certain value for a particular allergen, it means your pet is over-reacting to it and causing the symptoms. 

Your veterinarian may recommend an elimination diet, where your cat is fed a “novel” diet containing limited and new ingredients, to identify food allergies. Your cat's symptoms are monitored and ingredients are gradually reintroduced to identify the specific allergen causing the reaction.

What Are Some of the Most Common Cat Allergies?

The four most common types of cat allergies include fleas, food, atopic dermatitis, and contact allergies.

• Flea allergies: Flea bites cause allergic reactions in many pets, resulting in intense itching and inflammation of the skin. This may lead to excessive grooming, hair loss, sores, or scabs.
• Food allergies: Cats can be allergic to proteins found in their diet such as beef, chicken, or dairy products. Signs of food allergies may include itchy skin and digestive issues.
• Atopic dermatitis: This type of allergy is typically caused by environmental allergens and can cause intense itching and red skin.
• Contact allergies: Some cats are sensitive to certain materials, like rubber or plastic, used in pet bowls, beds, or toys. Symptoms may include redness and irritation of the skin where the material came into contact with the cat's body.

What Types of Treatments Can Be Used to Relieve the Symptoms of a Cat That Is Suffering from Allergies?

Treating cat allergies is essential for the well-being of both the pet and its owner. The type of treatment used may depend on the type of allergy and how severe it is. Here are some common treatments for cat allergies:

• Medications: Antihistamines can help reduce production of immune system chemicals active in an allergic reaction, relieving itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) can help reduce sensitivity to allergens over time, leading to a reduction in allergy symptoms. Your veterinarian may also recommend other medications depending on your cat’s individual needs.
• Environmental modifications: Regular cleaning, including vacuuming, dusting, and washing of pet bedding, can help reduce allergens in the home. Air purifiers with HEPA filters can remove pollutants from the air. Bathing pets regularly can also help reduce airborne allergens.

How Effective Are Treatments for Cats Suffering from Allergies?

The effectiveness of allergy treatments for cats varies depending on the type of allergy and the severity of the reaction. Medications such as antihistamines and corticosteroids can provide relief from symptoms in some cases; however, they may not address the root cause of the allergy. Immunotherapy has been shown to offer effective long-term relief from allergies, with an 85% to 90% success rate at improving allergic symptoms. Your veterinarian will help you determine which treatment is most suitable for your feline friend.

Conclusion

Cat allergies can cause a variety of health issues for cats ranging from skin irritation to difficulty breathing. It’s important to avoid self-diagnosing allergies and seek professional advice from a veterinarian to ensure the best possible outcome for your four-legged best friend. By understanding the different types of cat allergies and implementing effective preventive care measures, you can help keep your cat healthy and happy. There are several treatments to help cats live healthy, allergy-free lives.

At Glen Oak Dog & Cat Hospital, we understand the challenges of caring for cats with allergies. That’s why we strive to provide the highest quality and best service to our pet owners. If you are located near Glenview, IL and think your cat could be suffering from allergies, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today! Call (276) 600-2631.