Home Remedies for Cat Itching

Cats that itch often scratch excessively, chew at the area, paw at the face or show other signs of trying to relive the irritation. Itching may be the result of many problems, including allergies, infections or parasites. If your cat's itching is severe, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian for treatment. For minor itching, however, there are treatments you can try at home.

  1. Cool Bath

    • Some cats do not take kindly to bathing or water of any kind. However, some cats simply love it, and if the itching is bad enough, you may be willing to try anything. Prepare a cool (not cold) bath of water and colloidal oatmeeal such as Aveeno. Allow your cat to soak (you may have to hang on to it to make sure it stays in) for about 10 minutes to relieve itchy skin.

    Flea Treatment

    • You'll notice fleas if you see tiny black flecks of "dirt" left behind in your cat's fur or on his bedding. This dirt is actually fecal matter from the fleas. A good bath removes fleas. Follow the bath with a grooming session with a flea comb. The teeth of a flea comb are close set and catch any fleas on your cat. Be sure to vacuum your home after flea treatment to pick up any fleas in the house.

    Avoid Allergens

    • Your cat may be allergic to dust or dust mites. Cover your furniture and your cat's bed with plastic to eliminate dust mites and dust, wash bedding in hot water, and keep the cat away from rooms with carpet or that have been recently vacuumed. If your cat is allergic to mold, keep it indoors, out of basements and away from houseplants. Feline pollen allergies require keeping your cat indoors, at least during high pollen seasons. These steps help prevent allergic itching in your cat.

    Creams

    • Topical treatment such as hydrocortisone cream relieves allergic itching. Apply it to any irritated areas for immediate relief of symptoms. If your cat licks the cream away, you can still use it on areas the cat can't reach, such as the top of the head.

    Fatty Acid Supplements

    • Omega-3 fatty acids help relieve symptoms of itching in cats by improving skin and its ability to block out allergens. Your veterinarian can recommend a good omega-3 supplement for your cat to take. Administer the supplement regularly for best results.

    B Vitamins

    • Biotin, a supplement powder made of B-vitamins, is effective in preventing many types of feline skin itching. Biotin helps dry skin, skin allergies and even seborrhea (a condition similar to eczema). Your veterinarian can recommend a Biotin supplement, which must be administered regularly to prevent skin problems.