Cat Allergies

Detecting cat allergies can be easier said than done, but treating them is important to make your cat more comfortable – and your life a whole lot easier!

When the words ‘cat’ and ‘allergies’ are used in the same sentence, we usually assume the conversation pertains to a human who is allergic to cat hair. Yet many of our furry friends suffer allergies as well, which can leave them itching, scratching and uncomfortable if these allergies go untreated.

How do I know if my cat has an allergy?
Usually, the cause of your cat’s allergy will be either an ingredient in his food, something in the air that she’s inhaled (perhaps a seasonal flower or chemical you’re using in your home), or something that has come into contact with his skin – like a product or, most likely, fleas. Cats can be allergic to fleas and flea excrement (which the fleas kindly leave all over poor moggy’s skin), as well as suffering the usual discomfort of an animal with fleas, which make flea allergies difficult to spot.

If your cat has been scratching, licking, rubbing or sneezing excessively, you should consider allergies as a possible cause. Changing around variables like what food he’s eating, where he’s sleeping and what he’s coming in contact with could help you determine exactly what your cat is allergic to. A vet can perform a blood-test, skin-test or diet-tests, depending on which allergen is suspected to be the problem.

How should I treat my cat’s allergies?
If possible, removing the allergen is obviously the best solution. If your cat is allergic to fleas, you can increase the frequency of his flea treatments so that he is protected all year round. Keeping your cat’s bed and litter tray extra-clean and dust-free is another good solution if dust is causing your cat’s allergies, as is switching the kind of cleaning products you use in the house, or the shampoos you use on your cat.

If, however, the allergy is to something that can’t be easily eliminated from your cat’s environment, there are a range of medical options for treatment, such as antihistamines, allergy injections and cortisol creams to relieve itching. These will not cure the allergies, but will effectively manage your cat’s symptoms and make life a lot more comfortable for the both of you!

And remember, for the best advice, always consult your vet.

Images by Helen hsd and Russ Crib