How to Identify and Treat Cat Allergies
Seeing your cat scratching non-stop can make any owner worried.
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Allergies are more common than you think and affect the health and the well-being of your feline.
According to veterinarian Dr. Luanna Campos, many owners take a while to notice the signs.
Intense itching, redness of the skin and even vomiting are some of the symptoms.
These problems not only bother your pet, but also impact your daily routine. After all, who doesn't want their cat to be happy and healthy?
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In this guide, you'll discover how to help your pet. From recognizing the first signs to the best ways to provide relief. Let's take care of your feline together!
What are cat allergies and how do they affect your pet?
Does your cat seem to be constantly scratching or having irritated skin?
This could be a sign of a allergy. These reactions occur when the immune system of the feline overreacts to something common, such as food, pollen or even flea bites.
There are three main types of allergic reactions in felines: food, environmental and flea bites.
Each of these can cause discomfort and even more serious skin problems, such as dermatitis.
In the case of food allergies, approximately 30% of cases are linked to hypersensitivity to certain ingredients. Flea bite allergies are triggered by the insect's saliva, causing intense itching.
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These problems do not only affect the quality of life of your pet.
They may also require frequent vet visits and environmental changes, such as changing their food or using flea products.
According to experts, allergens present in cat saliva, urine, and dander can persist in the environment for months. Therefore, it's important to keep your home clean to reduce symptoms.
Learn more about how feline allergens affect the space where your pet lives.
Identifying the type of allergy is the first step in helping your cat live a more comfortable life. With the right care, you can minimize discomfort and ensure your cat remains healthy and happy.
Common Causes of Cat Allergies
Is your cat losing hair or having red skin?
It could be a sign of allergyKnowing the causes helps prevent and alleviate your pet's discomfort.
THE food allergy is one of the most frequent.
Proteins like beef, chicken, and fish are the main culprits. Milk, eggs, and preservatives can also trigger reactions.
Flea bite allergies occur due to the insect's saliva.
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Even a single bite causes intense itching and dermatitis. Products such as Hectopar Spot help prevent infestations.
Environmental factors account for 40% of cases. Dust mites, pollen, and dust are allergens common. In spring, the exhibition to pollen increases, worsening symptoms.
Identifying the cause is essential. Consult a veterinarian to adjust the diet or reduce substances irritants in your feline's environment.
Symptoms to identify allergies in cats
Is your feline scratching more than usual or exhibiting strange behavior?
These could be signs that something is wrong. Pay attention to symptoms that indicate allergic reactions.
THE itch intense is one of the first signs.
Your cat may lick, bite, or rub areas like its ears, paws, and abdomen. This can lead to wounds and even alopecia (hair loss).
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Problems in skin are also common. Redness, inflammation, and small bumps may appear. In cases like Mingau's, miliary dermatitis caused lesions all over the body.
In addition to skin signs, look for:
| Symptom | Description | Gravity |
|---|---|---|
| Sneezing | Frequent and without apparent reason | Moderate |
| Digestive problems | Vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive flatulence | High |
| Conjunctivitis | Red and watery eyes | Mild to moderate |
Less common symptoms include a dry cough and difficulty breathing.
They can be confused with colds, but they last longer.
Untreated cases can develop into bacterial infections. Skin damaged by itching becomes vulnerable. If you notice pus or wounds that don't heal, see a veterinarian immediately.
Acute reactions appear quickly after contact with the allergen.
Chronic diseases develop gradually but cause long-term damage. In both cases, early diagnosis makes all the difference.
How to Diagnose Allergies in Cats
Noticing changes in your cat's behavior can be the first step in discovering a problem.
If he is very itchy or has skin irritations, a veterinarian can help find the cause.
THE diet elimination is a common method. It lasts up to 10 weeks and removes food suspects. Then, each item is reintroduced to observe reactions. Products such as Royal Canin Hypoallergenic are used at this stage.
Another option is the tests Intradermal or serological tests. They have limited efficacy but can identify environmental allergens.
The average cost in Brazil ranges from R$ 200 to R$ 500, depending on the clinic.
Protein hydrolysates, such as Feline Allergen, are essential. They break proteins into smaller parts, reducing reactions. Your veterinarian can recommend this option.
One diagnosis accurate requires a detailed clinical history.
Note when symptoms began and if there are any patterns. This helps rule out other causes, such as parasites or infections.
Remember: allergies account for 701,000 cases of dermatological problems in felines. Patience and monitoring are essential to ensure your pet's well-being.
How to Treat Cat Allergies: Effective Options
Your cat deserves to live without itching and skin irritation. With treatment sure, it is possible to alleviate discomfort and improve your quality of life.
Products like Cetodine Shampoo Helps fight secondary infections. Its chlorhexidine formula soothes the skin and reduces inflammation.
For severe cases, the use Corticosteroids or antihistamines may be necessary, always with a veterinary prescription.
THE cleaning of the environment is essential. The Lavi-Fen disinfects surfaces and removes allergens.
Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters are also great allies for maintaining home safe.
| Method | Description | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Baths with Pro Skin Hypoallergenic | Reduces itching and moisturizes the skin | High |
| Homemade diet (rabbit + sweet potato) | Avoid allergenic ingredients | Moderate to high |
| Environmental enrichment | Reduces stress, a common trigger | Moderate |
According to studies, combining methods increases the response positive in 70%. Products such as DOUXO® S3 CALM restore the skin barrier, while fatty acids reduce inflammation.
Remember: every feline is unique.
Consult a veterinarian to adjust the treatment to your pet. With patience and care, your cat can be happy and healthy again.
Conclusion
Take care of well-being of your feline requires attention to the signs and measures fast.
An accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment make all the difference in your pet's quality of life.
If you notice any changes, consult a veterinarian. They may recommend solutions such as special diets or environmental control products.
Brands like Royal Canin offer options that help with skin health.
Don't forget: purifiers with HEPA filters reduce allergens in the air. For more tips, check out our complete guide.
Share your experience in the comments.
Together, we can help more cats live comfortably!