Feline Hives

Feline hives are a common ailment occurring in approximately 15 percent of cats. The hives are usually caused from various allergens found at home or in your own backyard. Simple topical treatments or special medication can be prescribed to resolve the problem. Observe your cat's activities carefully to remove the allergens and watch as its itchy hives disappear.

  1. Allergies

    • Look for red, pink or swollen bumps on your cat's skin. Your cat may be having a reaction to a food, medication, insect or airborne allergen. It may be difficult to determine what your cat is allergic to. The most common culprit is a flea bite and is created from the saliva in the flea's mouth. Your cat may continue to scratch after the bite disappears.

    Food

    • Determine if your cat has new food or if its diet has been changed. Cats may develop hives from a food allergy. Remember that your cat may have eaten a scrap of food or gotten into a garbage bin to find a new treat. Milk of magnesium can usually be administered to relieve allergy symptoms without harming a cat's stomach. Consult your veterinarian to discuss appropriate dosage or alternate medications.

    Chemicals

    • Feline hives may appear from exposure to lawn chemicals and fertilizers or recent medication and vaccinations. Look for a red, circular, raised area on your cat's skin in as little as 30 minutes after exposure to the allergen. Your cat may also excessively groom its paws, belly and face. Unless bitten by a flea, the hive should disappear within 24 hours. Hives caused from flea bites may take several days to clear up.

    Natural Remedies

    • Feline hives or skin irritations can often be treated with natural remedies. Chamomile, horsetail and dandelion tonics can help improve skin and fur conditions in your pets. The tonic or oil is usually administered with a clean cloth or cotton ball. Speak to your vet before administering aid to your pet.

    Skin Infections

    • Observe your cat closely. Signs of obsessively cleaning one area, emitting an odor from its skin or coat, moist hives or flaky skin may be caused by an infection. Ask your vet for advice. She may prescribe special feline shampoo to wash your cat clean of bacteria and potential allergens.