Scratch, scratch. Wheeze, wheeze. Does your cat have allergies? If so, good news—they’re manageable! Let’s explore the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions in cats, so you will know how to help Mr. Whiskers find relief!
In this blog about cat allergies, we’ll look at:
Reasons cats develop allergies
Signs and symptoms of allergies in cats
What to do for cats who have allergies
COMMON TRIGGERS FOR ALLERGIC REACTIONS IN CATS
Your pointy-eared pal has been looking a little off lately. The fact about felines is, they can develop allergies, just like people can. So if your furry buddy is showing new symptoms, it’s not something to ignore. Knowing when to take your cat to the emergency vet is crucial to his health and comfort.
So, why does your cat have allergies? These are some substances cats can develop an allergic reaction to:
Your cat may have access to certain foods that can bring on an allergic reaction:
It could be your kitty's own brand of cat food
Perhaps your curious cat found foods while exploring the trash
Maybe well-meaning people hand your cat table scraps
Things in the environment – yes, your cat’s surroundings can be the cause of allergies.
Could a different brand of laundry detergent be the culprit? If your cat curls up in clothing that’s fresh from the dryer, or even in hops into an empty laundry basket, new scents can linger and cause a reaction
A new carpet can be the allergy culprit! Carpet fibers are hardly visible but can cause allergic reactions in cats
Do you use scented candles or a room deodorizer? Any of these can be allergy triggers in cats
Stinging insects and fleas – if your cat gets stung by a bee or other insect with stingers or your feline has fleas and is allergic to them, he'll get a little itchy or scratchy
Allergic reactions - Cats can have underlying allergies from food and environmental allergens, but can also develop true allergic reactions.
Allergic reactions can range anywhere from super mild to potentially life-threatening. In cats, more mild signs can be seen at a single region of the body; if the allergic reaction is more significant, it will affect the body as a whole
Note that while it’s important to get your cat on a routine vaccination schedule, be on the lookout for any allergic reaction that might develop after a vaccination
WHAT CAT ALLERGIES LOOK LIKE
Recognizing the symptoms of allergies in cats is step one in helping your feline friend find some relief. Below, discover seven common signs of allergic reaction in cats. If your cat shows such symptoms, give the veterinary experts at VEG a call. They’ll help you solve the potential allergy problem and provide relief, so your cat can return to his happy-go-lucky self again.
SYMPTOM 1: SKIN IRRITATION (DERMATITIS) IN YOUR CAT
Skin irritation, or dermatitis as it’s clinically known, can be a hallmark sign of an allergic reaction in cats. Common symptoms include:
Itchiness
Redness
Painful or swollen skin
Skin irritation may be the answer if your cat is:
Biting at the site of discomfort
Licking incessantly
Scratching frequently
If your cat is doing any of this, take a closer look and then come to your nearest VEG emergency hospital. This could be an allergic response, and may lead to more severe skin damage if not addressed quickly.
SYMPTOM 2: SWELLING AROUND THE EYES, EYE DISCHARGE IN FELINES
Eye swelling, eye discharge, redness, and itchiness in your cat’s eyes all point to an allergic reaction. If you notice your cat pawing at his eyes or rubbing his face against furniture or the floor, try to get him to stay still so you can see what’s going on. These are common signs of an allergic reaction, along with swelling, redness, and discharge from the eyes.
Maybe your cat’s eyes are watering more than usual, or his eye discharge has changed in color and consistency. You don’t want to mess around with his peepers! Best get your cat checked out at VEG by one of our emergency vet as soon as possible.
SYMPTOM 3: CAT DEVELOPING EAR INFECTION
Did you know that allergic reactions can lead to ear infections in cats? Signs to watch for:
Scratching at the ears
Redness and swelling of the ears
Head shaking
Noticeable odor coming from the ears
A buildup of wax or discharge in the ears is also a telltale sign of underlying allergies. Untreated, a bacterial infection may result. To avoid infection or help clear one up, our VEG vet will clean and treat your cat’s ears to mitigate any effects from her allergy.
Contact your local VEG animal hospital to have your cat examined by a professional ER vet. They’ll help you find the cause of the allergy, and resolve symptoms.
SYMPTOM 4: YOUR CAT HAS GASTROINTESTINAL UPSET
A more significant allergic reaction in cats can sometimes manifest as gastrointestinal issues. Symptoms include:
Diarrhea
Significant change in appetite
Vomiting
Does your cat seem extra finicky lately, or has he lost interest in food? He may feel unwell as a result of an allergic reaction.
Keep a close watch on your cat. If he continues to reject his food or show other signs of gastric distress, get to your nearest 24-hour VEG animal hospital. Your cat’s overall health and hydration may be affected if he’s having allergy-related tummy troubles.
SYMPTOM 5: SNEEZING AND NASAL DISCHARGE IN CATS
If your cat breathes in something he’s allergic to, it will likely result in sneezing, nasal discharge, or breathing abnormalities. Some common offenders: pollen, dust, and mold.
If these symptoms persist (think constant sneezing), this can signify a more serious allergic reaction that needs to be seen by a VEG vet.
SYMPTOM 6: BEHAVIORAL CHANGES IN YOUR CAT
Is your cat acting a bit “off?” If your normally charming chaser-of-cat-toys suddenly seems too pooped to party, it could point to allergies.
Do not overlook changes in your cat’s behavior as a possible symptom of an allergic reaction. An often-overlooked sign of discomfort, lethargy, or withdrawal from social interactions can indicate that your cat is dealing with discomfort from an allergic reaction. Increased irritability, or changes in their daily routines can also be indicative of how they’re feeling internally.
SYMPTOM 7: CAT HAVING RESPIRATORY ISSUES
Coughing, wheezing, and sneezing are more than just cartoon-like behaviors in your cat. They’re legit signs of respiratory discomfort. Cats with allergies can exhibit respiratory symptoms, which can sometimes be mistaken for a cold.
Can allergies impact your cat’s ability to breathe, and impede his airways? Yes. And if left untreated, a so-called harmless little allergy can escalate, and cause further complications.
Can cats get asthma? Yepper. Mild, chronic irritation can lead to feline asthma, however severe allergic reactions can actually lead to difficulty breathing and respiratory distress.
Take your cat’s wheezing and other respiratory symptoms seriously. If your cat is ever open-mouth breathing, coughing, or breathing with increased effort, do not hesitate to give the caring and knowledgeable veterinary experts at VEG a call. Or bring your cat in anytime. Our highly skilled vet team can determine the cause and guide you to managing symptoms, so your cat gets some relief.
VISIT VEG’S 24-HOUR EMERGENCY VET HOSPITAL IF YOUR CAT HAS ALLERGIES
Recognizing allergic reactions in cats is crucial for their health and comfort. Have you observed any of the symptoms listed above? Act swiftly and get to your nearest VEG ER for pets.
At VEG, we’re committed to providing immediate care to help manage your cat's allergies and ensure his well-being. Your fast response can make a significant difference in your cat's health!
