Can Cats Have Allergies? Signs, Common Types & Treatments

Can cats have allergies just like their pet parents? Yes, they can! However, cats don't normally show the same clinical signs — watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing — that we commonly associate with allergies in humans. Instead, cats with allergies display signs of itchiness such as licking, chewing or rubbing on the fur and skin. Allergies in cats are commonly separated into three categories: flea, environmental and food. The specific type of allergy present will help determine treatment and what to feed a cat with allergies. Read on to learn more about the types of allergies, their clinical signs and treatment options.

Clinical Signs of Allergies in Cats

Most cats with allergies will appear very itchy, usually by licking, chewing or rubbing their face and bodies. Many times, the itchiness will result in visible areas of skin irritation and the pet parent may see the following:

• Fur loss
• Redness
• Skin rash
• Scabs
• Any signs of skin irritation

With food allergies, gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhea and lack of appetite can also be observed. If a pet parent notices signs of allergies in their cat, a thorough evaluation by a veterinarian is recommended.

3 Common Allergies in Cats

The most common types of allergies that affect cats include:

1. Flea Allergies

A flea allergy is one of the most common skin conditions seen in cats. Flea allergies are caused by a reaction to the saliva transferred by a flea's bite. Many times, the fleas may not be seen by the pet parent or even the vet during a physical examination. It can take only a few bites to incite the intense itchiness associated with a flea allergy. Clinical signs may include itchiness, hair loss, skin redness and scabs which are most common on the head, neck, abdomen and lower back or tail.

Flea allergies are easily treatable with preventative medication, and treated with year-round flea medication for cats that are allergic to fleas. These preventative medications come in both topical and oral forms for ease of administration. Other medications to control itchiness and treat secondary bacterial skin infections may also be needed based on the vet's evaluation. Treatment of the home or yard as well as any other cats or dogs living in the home may also be recommended.

2. Environmental Allergies

Cats can also have allergies to things in their environment just like humans. Common environmental allergens are trees, grass, mold and dust mites, as well as things that we may not suspect, like plastics used in food and water bowls, cleaning products and detergents. Diagnosis of environmental allergies is based on ruling out other causes. Many times, signs of environmental allergies are seasonal, with flare-ups occurring when the allergen is at high loads in the environment.

The best way to treat environmental allergies is to remove the trigger allergen from the environment. Using air purifying machines, vacuuming frequently, and washing your cats bedding and other household items that can trap allergens help reduce environmental allergens. Using metal bowls and washing them frequently and using unscented cleaning products, detergents and litters can also be helpful. When your kitty has an allergy flare-up, evaluation by a vet is recommended. Your vet will probably prescribe treatment with oral or topical medications to reduce itchiness, skin inflammation and secondary skin infections. Some cats have to be on long-term medication or therapeutic nutrition for management of their environmental allergies. Allergen-specific immunotherapy shots based on skin allergy testing can also be an effective treatment option. These shots require special testing, which is normally done with a veterinary dermatologist.