Understanding Cat Allergies - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Cats can suffer from various allergies. Common triggers include pollen, mold, dust mites, certain foods, flea bites, and even some household cleaning products.

Cats with food allergies may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or skin problems. Beef, fish, chicken, and dairy are frequent culprits. An elimination diet can help identify the specific cause.

Flea allergy dermatitis is a severe reaction to flea bites. Even a single bite can trigger intense itching, hair loss, and skin infections. Preventive flea treatments are crucial for allergic cats.

Inhalant allergies, or atopy, can cause sneezing, itching, and runny eyes. These are often seasonal and can be triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen or indoor ones like dust.

Contact allergies are less common but can occur from carpets, plastics, or fabrics. Affected cats may have localized skin reactions, often on the belly or paws.

Diagnosis involves a thorough history, physical examination, elimination diets, and possibly skin or serum allergy tests. Treatment includes avoidance, medication, or desensitization injections.

Human dandruff, cigarette smoke, and perfume can also be allergens for cats. Even some cat litters may trigger allergies, leading to respiratory issues or skin irritation.

Cats can be allergic to apples, bananas, and strawberries. These fruits, though healthy for us, can cause severe reactions in some cats.