Itchy & Scratchy? A Look at Common Allergies in Cats

Imagine having an itch that just won’t go away. No matter what you do, you can’t figure out how to soothe yourself. And the worst part? You’ve scratched at the itch so much you’ve actually broken the skin and are now suffering an infection.
The idea of an itch that won’t go away seems unbearable, and yet it’s surprisingly common in our feline friends who suffer from allergies. Allergies in cats are no fun to deal with (especially if you’re a cat!), but when they’re quickly recognized and treated, they can be successfully managed.
What’s Going On?
Allergens, or foreign substances/particles, have the potential to trigger an immune response in the body, also known as an allergic reaction. Allergies in cats can be caused by various triggers. Their immune system overreacts to the allergens by producing and releasing chemicals that result in the symptoms visible to the naked eye.
What Can We See?
Allergies in cats typically manifest on their skin. Owners will observe non-stop scratching, self-grooming, rubbing against furniture or carpet, and head shaking.
3 Common Categories
Allergies in cats can be separated into 3 categories: environmental, food, and flea. It is possible for one cat to be affected by all 3 categories simultaneously, or just one at a time.
In the Air, All Around
Environmental allergies can include anything inhaled, such as grass, pollen, perfume, mold, cleaning products, smoke, fungi, dust, and more. It can be difficult to rule out items in your cat’s environment that cause allergic reactions, but it’s critical to making Kitty feel more comfortable.
Not Hungry
Food allergies can also be hard to pinpoint. Skin problems are the most common sign of food allergies in cats, but some felines will show GI distress like diarrhea and vomiting in response to food triggers. Common protein sources like beef, lamb, chicken, turkey and eggs should be eliminated and then reintroduced. Carbohydrates, such as corn, soy, and wheat may require substitutes.
Bad Bugs
The saliva left behind by flea bites can cause severe allergic reactions in many cats. While we recommend year round parasite prevention to reduce the chances of flea allergies in cats, it’s not uncommon for indoor-only cats to go unprotected.
Symptoms of Allergies in Cats
Since most reactions center on the skin, you’ll likely notice excessive scratching, hair loss, chewing at paws or parts of the body, red, flaky skin, and possible swelling. Secondary skin infections are likely to occur. Rarely, severe reactions can include respiratory distress and anaphylaxis. Please seek emergency veterinary help.
Connecting the Dots
A physical exam and diagnostic testing are crucial to understanding allergies in cats. We may try an elimination diet if their food is suspected. Controlling their exposure to environmental triggers can also go a long way toward easing their pain and discomfort. Prescription medications can help soothe symptoms, but some allergies in cats cause lifelong health challenges.
Asthmatic cats commonly experience allergies and rely on medication to help them breathe.
A Comforting Thought
Allergies in cats aren’t fun by any measure, but they can be treated. Sure, they’re demanding and time-consuming, but every cat is worth it!
As always, please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. Our staff is always here for you and your cat!
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At Cat Care of Vinings, every person…demonstrated care. Everything was well explained… I received phone calls updating me on his progress and asking how he was after I took him home. They are compassionate and knowledgeable about cats and that is what really matters.
These people love your pet almost as much as you do… This seems less like a business and more like a labor of love. [They]…always keep you in the loop of what is happening…and put both you and your pet at ease…providing first rate care for you cat.
…We must say that Dr. Jennifer Palmer…is the BEST. Her medical experience, bedside manner, candor, and quest for knowledge…is immeasurable. She goes beyond the call of duty to ‘reach-out’ for answers and health options you may not be aware of.
The staff are always welcoming and hospitable. Doctors will go out of their way to make sure your cat is taken care of and comfortable. They always return your calls and even call to check up on your cat after an appointment.
This veterinary clinic changed my cat's entire life…[he had] severe dental problems… I was reluctant to…do the procedures… I cannot stress how happy I am… Everyone treats the cats with love and care, and they treat the people with respect and offer great advice.
The Vets have taken time to know and understand both my kitties. All clinic staff are caring, knowledgeable, and generally first rate.
Dr. Michael Friedlander is experienced, capable, kind, and caring with my cat and with me. Her staff is also excellent. Besides the excellent care for my cat, Michael also educated me on what I need to do to take care of my cat, such as vaccinations and heart worm prevention. This is a top notch feline veterinary hospital with a top notch staff!
I have had cats my whole life and have used many veterinarians over the years. Cat Care of Vinings provides the best care I have ever received for my 'kids' - cats
Knowledgeable, caring vets and a very supportive team. Highly recommended based on my personal experiences…
I am extremely fortunate to have taken her to Cat Care of Vinings… They take time to listen…answer questions, offer guidance…compassion, and give frequent and welcome updates.
Where do I begin? There are so many positives about Cat Care of Vinings…this entire practice is on a whole other level… The environment is relaxing and the staff are comforting and supportive.
Cat Care is exactly what it says. The whole office is geared toward all felines… There are cat trees, and cat friendly furniture throughout. But is what is more important is the feline expertise…
CCV is a warm, quiet environment that helps my nervous cat feel more comfortable… The vet techs and office staff are skilled, helpful and friendly. A+
…more information than the previous…places… Also,…we did not feel like they were pressuring us into paying for expensive procedures that may or may not work… [They] actually showed care and concern for our kitty…
The veterinarians and staff here are very professional, caring and thorough (they check for things other vet clinics don’t). They genuinely love their clients (i.e. cats)…
The quality of treatment and unbelievable care with which my kitten was treated are priceless to me especially as kitten moves into her later years. I wouldn’t take her anywhere else.
I was shocked at how little we knew even after more than a decade of cat ownership and regular vet visits. I really can't say enough about how thrilled we are with Dr. Palmer and Cat Care of Vinings. We just feel so fortunate to have you in our lives and are most grateful. Thank you all for all that you do! :-)