Allergies in cats can be very complex, but they are quite common, affecting up to 13% of cats. Cat allergies can be categorised into three main groups: parasites, diet, and environmental factors. While most cats diagnosed with allergies may require lifelong management, many can lead normal, happy lives.

Allergies can affect cats of any age or breed. Common symptoms of allergies include itching and skin issues. Treatment typically involves a multi-modal approach, including skin supplements, anti-itch medications, specialised diets, parasite control, and topical treatments like shampoos and ear cleaners.

 

Overview

What are allergies in cats?

Allergies in cats can usually be split into 3 main categories: parasites, food and environment.

• Parasites: flea allergies are the most common, but cats can also have allergies to mites (mange)
• Food: the 3 most common allergens in cats are fish, chicken and dairy
• Environment, also known as atopy: includes pollen, dust, grass, cigarette smoke and plants
• Asthma in cats is also due to an allergic reaction. Inhaled allergens from the environment cause a reaction in the airways.
• There’s often overlap: many cats can have allergies to more than one of these categories simultaneously
• The symptoms of these different allergies tend to be very similar
• Allergies are caused by an exaggerated response of the immune system to usually harmless substances
• Allergies are not curable, but many cats with allergies can live normal, happy lives. Medication may be needed long-term or only during flare-ups.

Allergies are common in cats and numerous treatment options are available. It’s best to speak to a vet if your cat displays signs of allergies. If left untreated, skin conditions can deteriorate, potentially resulting in severe infections and skin thickening.

 

Our Joii vets help cats with allergies every day. Call us now if you have any questions.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms of allergies in cats

The most common signs of allergies in cats include:

• Itching: this can appear as over-grooming, scratching, biting, licking or chewing a particular area
• Red, inflamed skin, rashes, crusts, and scabs
• Swollen lip or chin
• Hair loss leading to bald patches
• Thickened or darkened areas of skin

Other areas of the body can also be affected by allergies:

• Recurrent ear infections
• Wheezing due to asthma
• Runny eyes and sneezing

 

The location of skin issues can often provide clues about the type of allergy that is involved:

• Flea allergies typically appear along the spine and over the back and hip area.
• Environmental allergies tend to affect the paws, abdomen, ears, and inner legs.
• Food allergies may impact similar areas as environmental allergens but could also present with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and weight loss.

 

Risk

Are some cats more at risk of allergies than others?

• Environmental allergies: Abyssinians, Maine Coons, Persians, Himalayans, and Devon Rex.
• Food allergies: Siamese and Siamese crosses.
• Flea allergies: no known risk for breed.

 

Diagnosis

How are allergies diagnosed in cats?

Diagnosing allergies in cats can be a time-consuming and intricate process. It often involves ruling out other potential causes of itching.

Diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood and urine tests
• Skin tests, such as scrapings to check for mites, hair plucks to examine for fungus like ringworm, or even a skin biopsy.
• Diet trials, which involve feeding a hydrolysed or novel protein diet for a minimum of 6-8 weeks.
• Allergy tests, which can be either blood tests or skin tests to detect specific allergens in your cat’s body. Skin tests typically require sedation.

 

Vet treatment

What’s the treatment for allergies in cats?

Treatment will depend on how severe the symptoms are. Allergies can be tricky to treat, especially in the beginning and a multi-modal approach is usually recommended.

Treatment typically involves:

• Anti-itch medication: Various types and forms are available, with costs varying considerably. This medication may be necessary long-term or intermittently during flare-ups.
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy: tailored medication based on the results of skin or blood allergy tests.
• Antibiotics: prescribed for secondary skin infections.
• Prescription parasite preventatives: essential for preventing and treating mites (mange) and often have a faster onset of action against fleas than over-the-counter options.

 

Home treatment

How to look after a cat with allergies at home

Some cases of cat allergies can be effectively managed with home treatments, which may include:

• Skin supplements
• Soothing shampoos and mousses for irritated skin
• Ear cleaners
• Providing appropriate nutrition

While numerous over-the-counter products are available, the best choice for your cat depends on their specific symptoms. Consulting with one of our Joii vets online can offer personalised advice on selecting the most suitable product for your cat.

 

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent allergy flare-ups in cats

• Ensure all your household pets are kept on regular parasite prevention, especially for fleas.
• Regularly clean your cat’s bedding, collar, and bowls.
• Frequently dust and vacuum your home, refraining from using sprays or perfumes indoors.
• Provide your cat with high-quality, balanced nutrition suitable for their age and activity level. Some brands offer a specialised skincare line with a focus on omega oil content.
• Some cats may benefit from regular baths, shampoos, and ear cleanings. Seek professional guidance, as excessive bathing can lead to issues.
• Brush your cat’s coat and check for any unusual areas of skin at least weekly.
• Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible if your cat displays signs of itchiness to prevent self-trauma injuries.

 

Is my family at risk of catching allergies from my cat?

Allergies in cats are not contagious to humans or other pets in the household.

 

When to worry

When to worry about allergies in cats

Seek help from a vet if:

• Your cat is constantly scratching, to the point where it interrupts normal activities
• Your cat has large areas of hair loss or rashes all over the body
• Your cat is in pain from their skin or ear problems

Call us and speak to one of our Joii vets if:

• You want to find out how to do a food trial
• You want to know what topical products or skin supplements are best for your itchy cat
• You have any questions about parasite control in cats