During the spring months, many people experience allergies. However, you may be less aware that cats can also get allergies ranging from minor to severe. This week, we'll explain how to identify cat allergies and some dos and don'ts of feline allergy treatment.

Symptoms of Feline Allergies

Let's start with some signs that you're cat may be experiencing allergies. In general, feline allergy symptoms are similar to those experienced by humans, including:

1. Itching

One of the most common signs of allergies in cats is excessive itching. Cats may scratch themselves frequently or excessively and may also lick or chew at their skin.

2. Skin Irritation

Allergies can cause redness, bumps, rashes, and other types of skin irritation in cats. This can occur anywhere on the body but is often seen on the face, ears, paws, and belly.

3. Sneezing and Coughing

Just like in humans, allergies can cause respiratory symptoms in cats. If your cat sneezes or coughs frequently, this could be a sign of allergies.

4. Watery Eyes

Allergies can cause your cat's eyes to become watery and red. They may also develop discharge or crustiness around the eyes.

5. Ear Infections

Allergies can also cause ear infections in cats. If your cat is scratching at their ears or shaking their head frequently, this could indicate an ear infection caused by allergies.

Treatments for Feline Allergies

If you suspect your cat may be experiencing allergies, it's important to take them to the vet for an evaluation. The vet can help determine the cause of the allergies and provide appropriate treatment. Depending on the causes and severity of your cat's allergies, a vet may recommend certain medications, dietary changes, environmental changes, or topical treatments.

Don't Use Over-the-Counter Meds

You may be tempted to offer your cat over-the-counter medications, such as Tylenol or aspirin, intended for human consumption, but you should not do that. Acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) can cause damage to a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia and organ damage. Even a small amount of acetaminophen can be fatal to cats. Aspirin can also be toxic to cats and can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, and even hyperthermia. It can also interfere with blood clotting, leading to bleeding disorders.

If you have questions or want to schedule an allergy exam for your cat, please get in touch with Pinnacle Vet Clinic.

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