Cats can be allergic to substances in their food, their environments, or the air they breathe. A range of treatments will either eliminate or control allergic reactions in 9 of 10 feline allergy sufferers, according to PetEducation.com. Among the most effective treatments are antihistamines.
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Effectiveness
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The antihistamines routinely prescribed for cats effectively reduce symptoms in about 70 percent of animals and are even more effective when combined with fatty acid supplementation.
Function
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Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), chlorpeniramine (Chlor-trimeton), and clemastine (Tavist) keep histamines from attaching to a cat's cell receptors so they can't cause allergy symptoms.
Side Effects
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All three antihistamines may have a sedative effect. Benadryl and Tavist cause dry mouth, while Chlor-trimeton may give your cat diarrhea. Extremely itchy cats might benefit from mild sedation.
Consideration
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The most effective way to use an antihistamine, advises the ASPCA, is as a preventative. Give it to your cat before he will be in a situation likely to trigger his allergies.
Warning
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Cats can't tolerate antihistamines containing pseudophedrine, according to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.
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