Cats & Plant Allergies

Much like people, cats can have specific and severe allergies to a number of substances, including plants. Although unable to articulate their discomfort or the source of the irritant, cats can find relief in treatment similar to humans. Pollens, weeds, grasses and plants all can cause allergic reactions in pets, and can be treated with medication and environmental changes. Allergies are one of the most common problems diagnosed by veterinarians.

  1. What are Allergies?

    • There are four types of allergies that a cat can contract--contact, flea, food and inhalant. An allergic reaction occurs when a cat's immune system reacts to a foreign substance. Normally, a cat's immune system will only react to viruses or other ailments, but when it responds to a normal substance such as pollen, weeds, grasses or other plants, it is considered an allergic reaction. Nearly any plant can cause an allergic reaction in a cat, depending on how its immune system reacts. Allergic reactions can vary in severity, and sensitivity to the allergen can worsen over time.

    Manifestations

    • Depending on the severity of an allergic reaction, a cat can have a number of responses to an allergen. Manifestations can range from sneezing or watery eyes, to twitching, itching or chewing on an irritated area. More serious allergic reactions can cause hair loss, pustules, red lesions or broken skin.

    Diagnosis

    • Most allergies are diagnosed by identifying the substances that cause the reaction, and eliminating the allergens from the cat's environment. Some plant allergies are seasonal, such as when certain trees or plants bloom. Veterinarians also can conduct blood tests to diagnose specific allergens.

    Treatment

    • If an allergen is unable to be removed from the cat's environment, a pet owner can pursue other means of treatment. Depending on the severity of an allergic reaction, veterinarian intervention is sometimes needed to improve the quality of life for the cat. Some medications that a veterinarian may prescribe include steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs and antihistamine medications.

    Dangerous Plants

    • In addition to plants that can cause allergies, there are a number of plants that are toxic to felines. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, there are 17 common plants that are dangerous to pets. These include lillies, marijuana, sago palm, tulip bulbs, azaleas, oleander, castor beans, cyclamen, kalanchoe, yew, amaryllis, Autumn crocus, chrysanthemums, English ivy, peace lily, pothos and schefflera. If these plants are ingested, even in small amounts, they can be fatal to cats.