Allergy injections are considered the most effective way to manage allergies in the long run. The injections may be used in cats that have inhalant allergies. The allergy shots will start being effective after a few months of administration, and the compounds of the shots will train the immune system not to respond to the allergens.
Allergy Injections and Types of Allergies
Allergies are caused by a negative reaction of the immune system. The allergy injections have been created to interact with the immune system and expose it to the allergen on a regular basis, so that the immune system will no longer react when the allergen is present. The allergy injections may be applied in cats that have inhalant allergies (to mold, pollens, grasses or dust mites), but cannot be used in cats that have unidentified allergies or allergies to food.
Allergy Shot Compounds
The compounds of the allergy shots will be determined according to what the cat is allergic to. For this reason, the precise allergen should be isolated. Skin testing or blood tests (RAST and ELISA) can be used to detect the irritants. If the allergen is not detected, allergy shots cannot be used. The allergen substances (such as proteins) will be used in small amounts and diluted with some serum. The compound will be injected under the cat's skin.
Administration of Allergy Shots
The allergy shots will be first administered weekly or twice per month, so that the cat's body gets used to them. The allergens in the shots will be more diluted in the first shots, because more concentrated shots may cause a negative reaction. As the treatment progresses the injections will be more concentrated and the cat may get only one shot per month. Some cats will do well on one shot every six months.
The aim of the injections is to train the immune system not to trigger an allergic reaction when in contact with the allergens. The cat should build up immunity and the allergy symptoms should diminish. You may choose to get the desensitization shots at a vet clinic or you may learn how to administer the shots yourself.
Allergy Injections Effects
The effects of the allergy injections will depend on how the cat reacts and how severe the allergic reactions are. In most cases, the allergy symptoms are diminished. Some cats may get rid of allergies for good after two or three years of allergy shots. A small percentage of cats that get allergy shots may not respond to them, so a different type of treatment will be recommended. The effects of the allergy injections will be only visible after six months of treatment. Meanwhile, the cat should receive alternative treatment.
Allergy Injections Side Effects
The side effects of allergy injections include:
- Occasional nausea and vomiting, during the first months of treatment
- Skin rashes and swelling at the injection site
If other side effects appear, you should contact the vet.