Antihistamines for Treating Cat Sneezing Allergies

Cat sneezing is frequently caused by allergies to different airborne irritants. Antihistamines are a treatment choice to relieve sneezing caused by allergies. The antihistamines are meant to block the production of histamines, which are released by the immune system and cause the allergic symptoms, including sneezing, dermatitis or coughing.

How Antihistamines Work

The antihistamines are medications that will block the secretion of histamines. The histamines are substances released by the immune system when the cat is in contact with different allergens such as pollens, grasses, dust mites, mold, chemicals or smoke.

Not all cats produce histamines; only the cats with a compromised or weak immune system release histamines and have allergic reactions.

Also, the antihistamines must be periodically rotated, so that the pet doesn’t build up immunity to the drugs.

Types of Antihistamines

Cats may get several types of antihistamines. The possible problem with antihistamines is that some cats may not react to certain antihistamines, so the vet will test a few drugs first. Vets most often prescribe one of the following antihistamines:

  • Benadryl, which is also used in humans
  • Chlorpheniramine, which should be administered orally, on a daily basis
  • Clemastine, oral antihistamine
  • Tavist, similar to chlorpheniramine
  • Cyproheptadine, which may also relieve symptoms of asthma
  • Diphenhydramine, featuring similar components as Benadryl

Side Effects of Antihistamines

As all drugs, antihistamines will cause a few side effects. Some of the most common antihistamine side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Head aches
  • Dizziness and confusion
  • Stomach problems
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Dry mouth and dry nose

In more severe cases, when the antihistamines are administered throughout the year, the cat may develop vision problems and become more irritable.

Alternative to Antihistamines

Sneezing caused by allergies will be relieved by antihistamines, but the antihistamines will not address the main problem and after discontinuing the medication with antihistamines the cat will start developing allergy symptoms again.

You need to look at some treatments that will strengthen the cat’s immune system that causes the production of histamines and the allergies.

Ideally, the allergen should be identified and an immunization solution should be developed and injected on a monthly basis; over 70% of cats respond well to immunization shots and become less sensitive to the allergens. The main disadvantage of allergy shots is that it takes up to 6 months for the cat to start showing signs of improvement.

There are also other treatments that may relieve the sneezing and boost the cat’s immunity. Holistic remedies address the root of the problem; these remedies may be used in felines that don’t respond well to allergy shots and would like a permanent allergy relief.

Ideally, the cat should also be kept away from the allergens and this will reduce the sneezing. Antihistamines can bring immediate sneezing allergies relief, but it will not cure the allergies.

 

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