What Are the Main Allergies of a Cat?

People say cats are human-like in their behavior. When it comes to cat health, cats may exhibit some human-like allergies as well. Cats are allergic to all sorts of things, and their allergies tend to manifest either through skin irritations, such as rashes or bumps, or through respiratory irritations, such as sneezing or a runny nose. Some allergies are more common than others in cats.

  1. Food Allergies

    • The most common food allergies are from fish, chicken, pork, dairy and wheat. Vet Info says that over 40 percent of cats that have food allergies are allergic to fish. Fish is in many cat products, including cat food, treats, toys and medications. Most cats are lactose intolerant, and about 10 percent with food allergies are allergic to dairy products. Though cat products do not list dairy as an ingredient they may contain sodium caseinate, which may irritate cats with dairy allergies.

      Chicken and pork are also common in cat foods, treats and medications. Chicken is also used in an additive called stearic acid. A pork allergy will cause skin itching, rashes and skin bumps. Wheat often thickens products or works as a filler. When looking at a label, cat owners should watch for the term "starch," another term that signifies the presence of wheat in pet foods.

    Fleas and Parasites

    • Besides the already uncomfortable experience of a flea or another parasite infestation, cats may be allergic to the bites. A flea bite will cause an irritation or a rash. Once the fleas are removed, the rashes and irritations can be treated with ointments. Besides fleas, the most common culprits are ear mites and ticks.

    Environmental Conditions

    • Just like humans, cats may form allergies to environmental conditions such as pollen, mold, dust and chemicals. The cat will experience human-like symptoms, including sneezing, stuffy nose, runny eyes, skin irritations and itchiness. A veterinarian can prescribe antihistamines for relief.

    Contact Allergies

    • Cats may become allergic to materials such as latex, certain fabrics and plastic, which irritate the skin through rashes and bumps.

    Drugs

    • Cats may become allergic to drugs they take for medical reasons. Vet Info cites penicillin, erythromycin and sulfonamides as some of the more common allergies.