Cats are lovely and loyal pets that are perfect for any household. However, they are not immune to allergic reactions. In this blog post, our Kamloops vets discuss the common allergens that affect cats, the symptoms of allergic reactions in cats, and options for treatment and management of these allergies.
Common Allergens Affecting Cats
There are several potential allergens that can affect your cat. Allergens can be related to the environment, foods, parasites, detergents, or drugs. One of the most common environmental allergens is pollen from plants, trees, and grass. Cats can also be sensitive to the dust in your home, including materials such as mold spores, dust mites, and tobacco smoke. Certain foods, such as dairy products and chicken are more likely to cause an allergic reaction than others. Chronic flea infestations are another common cause of allergies. Your cat may also develop allergies to certain medications or grooming products.
Recognising Symptoms of Allergic Reactions
Allergies in cats can cause irritation to their skin, digestive system, and respiratory system. Some common symptoms of allergies include excessive grooming, persistent scratching or chewing of their hair or skin, or vomiting. You might also notice your cat scratching one area obsessively which can cause open wounds. Other symptoms may include diarrhea and coughing or wheezing.
Treating and Preventing Allergic Reactions
The most important thing to do if you notice your cat showing symptoms of allergies is to get them to the vet. The vet will work with you to diagnose the cause of the allergies and prescribe proper environmental management, food, or medication for it. If the cause of the allergies is pollen, you may want to invest in air purifiers in your home to prevent exposure to allergens or simply keeping your home cleaner and free of dust, mold, and other irritants. Treating flea infestations as soon as possible is an important step you can take to ensure your cat is less likely to develop flea allergy dermatitis.
Managing Allergic Reactions
Managing allergic reactions in cats involves a team based, multi-step approach requiring long term commitment. You can give your cat some relief from their allergies by ensuring they’re on a hypoallergenic diet, all detergents or soaps are unscented for sensitive skin, and limiting access to known allergens. Your vet might prescribe medication to help with allergies that can’t be controlled another way. Regular check-ups with a qualified vet are important to monitor the progress of your cat’s allergies because the severity may change over time.
As a cat owner, it is important to be aware of the common allergens that affect cats and know how to identify the symptoms of allergies. It is also essential to take an active role in treating and preventing allergies in your cat by working with a qualified vet. By being aware of what to look for and how to manage these allergies, you can reduce your cat’s discomfort and keep them healthy and happy for a more extended period. If you suspect your cat is suffering from allergies, do not hesitate – contact the Cat Hospital of Kamloops today!
Questions? Call Us To Book An Appointment. We provide consultations, wellness exams, X-rays and imaging, soft tissue surgery, dental care, diagnostics, spaying and neutering services for cats. We love cats, and we know you do too!