Symptoms of a Cat Skin Allergy

Feline skin allergies are most commonly due to the cat's environment or inhalants in the air. Many things can cause an allergy in your cat including pollen, shampoo, food, fleas and certain chemicals. A veterinarian will be able to tell you exactly what is causing the allergy and recommend the necessary treatment. While itching is a clear sign that your cat may have a problem, other symptoms may clue you in as well.

  1. Itching

    • The most prominent symptom of a skin allergy in a cat is itching. You will notice your cat itching the spot of irritation. The cat may use its claws or bite at the area to relieve the itch. Your cat may also try to rub its head against the carpet or floors to relieve an itch.

    Hair loss

    • When a cat is experiencing a skin allergy, increased itching may lead to more problems. You may notice hair loss in certain spots. Allergies tend to cause a cat to over-groom and pull out fur. Large amounts of hair loss are also due to repeated rough scratching of the irritated area. Less frequent symptoms might include hair balls in vomit or hair in the feces.

    Open sores and scabs

    • Sometimes a cat will have open sores or scabs when there is an allergic reaction on the skin. This can also be tied into increased itching and hair loss, meaning the skin has less protection from the cat's claws. When there are open sores and scabs, a secondary bacterial infection may have occurred. A common type of allergy called miliary dermatitis also causes small bumps, scabs and crusts on the skin.

    Swollen face

    • If there has been an allergic skin reaction to your cat, her face may swell or become puffy. Typically this symptom occurs during warm weather and is associated with insect stings. The entire head will be swollen but it is non-painful. If you notice a puffy or swollen face, your cat will need medical attention immediately to rule out any serious causes other than allergies.