What Are the Treatments for Cats With Flea Allergies?

If your cat has a flea allergy, the usual irritation of a flea bite is amplified. Your cat will experience extreme itching, which can cause it to chew and scratch its skin in an attempt to find relief. This often results in lesions or open sores at risk for infection. If you take your cat to the vet, he will likely prescribe oral medications. If you prefer to treat flea allergies at home, however, you do have options.

  1. Grooming

    • Grooming is one of the basic methods for treating a cat with a flea allergy. Brush your cat daily with a flea comb to remove fleas and the eggs they lay. When brushing your cat, you can transfer anything removed from its fur into the toilet to drown any live fleas. Although bathing a cat can be difficult, using commercial flea shampoos to bathe your cat once or twice a month will help kill any existing fleas.

    Diet

    • If your cat has a compromised immune system, it is more susceptible to a flea infestation, according to All the Best Pet Care (Resources 1). Boosting your cat's immune system will help it fight the affects of a flea allergy. Providing a healthy diet for your cat is the easiest way to assure a strong, healthy, immune system. When providing pre-made foods, choose high-quality brands from your local pet store or your vet's office. If you prefer, you can also make your own cat food. Speak to your veterinarian about specific dietary requirements if you choose to make your cat's food.

    Witch Hazel

    • Since a cat with a flea allergy experiences extreme itching, providing relief is an important step. Witch hazel, according to Holisticat, is a natural astringent that can help soothe the itching and provide relief from the inflammation (Resources 2). You can find witch hazel at your local drug store. Dab it onto your cat's skin using a cotton ball.

    Herbal Treatments

    • There are a number of herbs that repel fleas, including fennel, eucalyptus, yellow dock, and rosemary, according to MyHealthyCat.com (Resources 3). Look for flea powders at your local pet store containing these ingredients, or make your own. To do this, mix the herbs together in equal measures, then sprinkle the homemade powder on your cat twice a week.