Excessive Shedding & Sneezing in a Cat

All cats shed and sneeze from time to time. When shedding and sneezing become frequent, however, it is not normal. These symptoms are signs of allergies. Cats can develop them just as humans can. However, there is more than one type. This is not a substitute for your veterinarian's advice. See your veterinarian immediately if your cat displays any symptoms of allergies or illness. He can make a definite diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

  1. Hay Fever

    • Excessive sneezing and shedding can be signs of hay fever in cats. These symptoms can also be accompanied by a runny nose and red eyes, just as in humans. Obviously, if your cat has hay fever, it will be seasonal instead of chronic. A non-medical home remedy that can help is bathing your cat with colloidal oatmeal.

    Other Environmental Allergies

    • Your cat can also be allergic to substances in its environment. You may not even know or be able to isolate the exact cause. Potential causes of allergic reactions in your cat's environment include perfumes, cigarette smoke, cleaning products, plastic and rubber materials, fabrics and dust. Dust from litter and fragrance in scented litter are also potential causes of allergic reactions. Environmental allergies are chronic and can be treated by your vet with a shot.

    How You Can Help Relieve Hay Fever

    • There are a few over-the-counter products for cats with hay fever allergies. As with humans, Benadryl can help relieve the symptoms. According to the Cat Health Guide, the dosage should be 1 to 3 milligrams per pound of the cat's weight. There is also an herbal product called Sinu-Rite that has been proven to aid cat sinus conditions. Always consult your vet before giving any medication or over-the-counter product to your cat, especially if it is very young or old, has any other illnesses or is being treated for other conditions.

    How You Can Help Relieve Environmental Allergies

    • Do your best to remove the allergen or allergens from your cat's environment. Use dust-free and unscented litter. Bathing your cat once or twice a week can help remove allergens from the skin and coat. Consult your veterinarian on the best shampoo to use and on the practice itself. Frequent bathing can dry your cat's skin, creating a new problem. Clean or wash your cat's bedding at least once a week and vacuum twice a week. Be sure to include curtains or draperies, and anything else that gathers dust as well as carpet and rugs.