Cat Litter Allergy Symptoms

Both cats and people can be allergic to cat litter. However, this allergy is often overlooked and misdiagnosed. If you have had persistent allergy symptoms and have been unable to identify a cause, then consider the possibility that you may be allergic to cat litter. Fortunately, if this is the case, the issue is easy to treat.

  1. Features

    • Generally, a cat litter allergy is much the same as any other allergy. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. In addition, this may become worse around the cat as well as around the cat litter.

    Misconceptions

    • Unfortunately, a cat litter allergy is often mistaken for a cat allergy. The best way to make sure that you are allergic to your cat--and not one of her accessories--is to get tested by a professional allergist. He can determine if you are actually allergic to cat dander, cat saliva or other allergen.

    Identification

    • If it turns out you are not allegic to your cat, then check out the cat litter immediately. The most common types of irritants in cat litter are clay-based and produce silica dust. Read your cat litter to see if it contains clay. If so, switch immediately and track your symptoms to see if they improve.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best way to prevent a cat litter allergy is to avoid the litter box. If you find that you are allergic even to non-dusty forms of cat litter, then you may need to isolate the litter box in an area where you do not frequent. In addition, you may need to avoid rubbing your face in the cat's fur since it can carry particles of litter with it.

    Cat Allergies to Cat Litter

    • Cats can be allergic to cat litter just like humans can. Their symptoms manifest themselves in similar ways in many cases. A cat that is allergic to cat litter may develop runny eyes, sneeze and cough after using the litter box, or even refuse to use the litter box. Cat acne and inflammation of the face can also develop if an allergy to the litter is present.

    Treating Cat Allergies to Cat Litter

    • If you believe your cat has an allergy to cat litter, you can take several steps to remedy the situation. For starters, change litters. You should get a non-clay based litter that does not create silica dust. In addition, try a metal or ceramic litter box. These boxes are less likely to accumulate dust and dirt than plastic boxes, so your cat will have fewer potential allergens to deal with.