Products for Allergies That Cats May Have

It isn't unusual for cats to suffer from allergies, and the effects can be unpleasant and uncomfortable. There are three common types of allergies in cats. Atopy (caused by inhaled dust, pollens or even cleaning agents) can cause itchy skin and sneezing. Flea allergies (caused by flea bites) result in raised bumps and itchiness of the skin. Food allergies (to foods such as milk, grains or eggs) can also lead to skin problems or may manifest as digestive troubles such as vomiting or diarrhea. Medications and products to treat each of these types of allergies are available.

  1. Oral Antihistamines

    • Chlorphenimarine, clemastine and diphenhydramine are three commonly prescribed medications for the symptoms of atopy. While these products are available over the counter (as Chlor-Trimeton, Tavist and Benedryl, respectively), never give an over-the-counter medication to your cat without first consulting your veterinarian. The dosages in over-the-counter medications may be too great for a cat's body weight and could cause damage or death. A prescription antihistamine from your veterinarian will take into account your cat's weight, overall general health and other factors. Steroids, such as prednisone, are sometimes used for atopic conditions, but because of their side effects, some veterinarians choose not to use them except as a last resort.

    Shampoos and Topical Treatments

    • Medicated shampoos can help a great deal with skin dryness and itching. You will need to follow your veterinarian's directions or the directions on the product. Shampoos containing hydrocortisone will be effective for itching skin. Hydrocortisone may also be available in other forms, such as topical sprays. You can get these through your veterinarian, or you can find some brands in pet stores, or from online suppliers, such as Foster and Smith. Colloidal oatmeal shampoos for pets are also available commercially and can ease itching. Flea allergies can only be treated by ridding your cat and your home of the fleas. Once-a-month topical flea preventives such as Advantage and Frontline will keep fleas off your pet, and your doctor can prescribe a pill called Capstar (nytempyran) that will kill all of the adult fleas on your cat in 30 minutes. (But afterward you will still need to use a regular flea preventive.) Vacuum your rugs every day, and periodically change your pet's bedding to eliminate fleas in the home.

    Supplements and Natural Treatments

    • Vitamins with Omega-3 fatty acids can aid with skin conditions, making skin less itchy. Sprays and lotions containing tea tree oil are helpful for soothing the skin as well. If fleas are the problem, and you do not like using the standard flea preventives on your cat, most pet stores carry herbal formulas containing citronella oil, that work quite well at repelling fleas. (However, you must be diligent about removing them from the premises as well.)

    Hypoallergenic Diets

    • If your cat's allergy turns out to be food related, you will have to purchase a commercial food product that your cat does not usually eat. (Or you can make it at home.) Most veterinarians recommend a diet with a protein and a carbohydrate, such as lamb or duck and rice, to see if the food allergy subsides. If so, you can begin adding ingredients back into your pet's diet one at a time to see what triggers the allergic reaction. Once this has been determined, you will simply have to avoid giving your cat any food or treats containing that food. You can simultaneously use whichever of the medications and other products described above that your veterinarian recommends to ease any skin-related symptoms of the food allergies. Gastrointestinal symptoms should subside with the introduction of the hypoallergenic diet.