A Cat That Is Congested From Allergies

Symptoms

• A congested cat presents a worrisome picture. Like children, cats have very narrow nasal passages, which magnify the sound of the slightest congestion. Often, the stuffiness is accompanied by asthmatic coughing. These coughing bouts can last for four or five minutes as the cat extends its neck and makes pitiful rasping noises.

  Assuming that a veterinarian has ruled out upper respiratory infections and related disorders, autoimmune disease and allergies are the likely culprits.

Causes

• The first step is to identify what causes the cat's symptoms. One of the most common triggers is fleas. Other suspects include food and cleaning supplies. Cats are also vulnerable to seasonal allergens such as pollens. In rare instances, cats can even be allergic to people. In some instances, a vet may do allergy testing. Be forewarned that these tests are not always reliable. The results may tell provide some insight into allergens that a cat is allergic to, but the tests do not reveal what allergens are causing a cat's particular symptoms. If fleas are eliminated, the best an owner can do is systematically remove possible offending agents to see whether that makes a difference.

  Obviously, the best solution is to determine the cause and remove the offending agent. However, in many instances (particularly in multi-cat households), it may be impossible to determine what triggers the cat's congestion. Under these circumstances, the best one can do is be scrupulous in preventing and treating flea infestations. Taking preventive action by applying a product such as Advantage is recommended. Regularly vacuuming the animal's sleeping quarters and providing a high-quality cat food such as Science Diet may also help.

Treatment

• Antihistamines are often the first step in treating cat allergies. Chlorpheniramine, clemastine, cyproheptadine and diphenhydramine are commonly used. Some vets recommend rotating the type of antihistamine so that the same drug is not given for more than three months in a row. The thinking is that this will prevent drug-resistance problems.

  Prednisone can be very helpful in serious cases, particularly if asthma is involved. Prednisone acts to minimize the inflammation--which makes it easier for the cat to breathe. Since the bronchioles are no longer constricted, the cat can breathe freely. Sometimes a short course of prednisone is all that is needed. Such treatment can be repeated as often as necessary.

Home Remedies

• Ridding the house of fleas is the first step in supportive care. Adult fleas need to be killed--and subsequent infestations prevented. Regular vacuuming helps remove eggs and larvae.

  If the cat is badly congested, using a humidifier can be helpful. Avoid extremes of heat or cold. Be sure the cat has a hiding place to which it may retreat. If no such place is available, provide a box or brown paper bag. Avoid exposing the animal to sharp smells such as cigarette smoke or cleaning agents. Just as you would for a sick human, try to minimize as unnecessary stresses.

Cautions

• Your vet is your partner in understanding and treating congestion caused by allergies. Together, you can get to the bottom of what is making your cat sick and find an effective treatment.

  Keep your vet informed of any changes, and avoid diagnosing your cat by yourself. A cat that is always congested is very vulnerable to other disorders such as upper respiratory infections and pneumonia.