Cat Allergies and Wheezing

Cats can have allergies and asthma. Allergy triggers are found in the home or backyard. Reducing exposure to allergens and treating their symptoms will help a cat lead a long, fun-filled life.

  1. Types of Allergens

    • Inhalant, contact, flea and food allergies are four common types of allergens that can affect a cat. Any of these allergens may lead to feline asthma.

    Inhalant Allergens

    • Grass, pollen, trees, flowers, dust, mold, mildew, second-hand smoke, perfumes, deodorants and kitty litter are inhalant allergens. Symptoms include sneezing, discharge from the nose and eyes, scratching and asthma. To alleviate symptoms, smoke outside, frequently dust and vacuum, use a low-dust kitty litter and do not spray perfumes or deodorants or use scented air fresheners. Left untreated, asthma may develop.

    Contact Allergens

    • Chemical substances in flea collars, materials in pet beds, scented laundry detergent and floor cleaners all cause contact allergies. Symptoms are scratching the fur off of itchy spots on the body and asthma.

    Flea Allergens

    • Older cats and kittens are very sensitive to adult fleas, which feed on the cat's blood. Symptoms are scratching, itching, hair loss and raised lesions. Left untreated, flea bites can cause anemia, lethargy, weight loss, weakness, pale gums, breathlessness and death.

    Food Allergens

    • A protein component found in beef, pork, chicken and turkey cat food may cause an allergic reaction in a cat. Symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis, severe itching, excessively oily skin, ear inflammation, hair loss or asthma.

    Asthma

    • Allergens can cause a narrow airway and muscle spasms in the bronchi. Symptoms of asthma include squatting and extending the neck while coughing, wheezing, vomiting and sneezing. Treatments include methylprednisolone or prednisone injections or tablets, a corticosteroid inhaler called Flovent® or a bronchodilator inhaler called Apo-Salvent®.