Cat Litter Allergy Symptoms

Cat litter is a necessity if you have a cat and he lives indoors and will reduce the smell and will make your life easier. However, the cat litter may be among the top allergens causing negative reactions in felines. There are different ingredients in the cat litter that can cause allergies including the silica, clay or the fragrances used to make the litter. The cat litter allergy symptoms will be similar to the signs of other types of allergies, but will be more intensive when the cat is around the litter box.

Sneezing

Sneezing is a defense mechanism developed when the cat gets in contact with the ingredient that causes irritation. By sneezing, the cat clears his nasal and air passages, eliminating a greater part of the irritant as well.

Itchiness

The airborne irritants may be inhaled or may end up absorbed by the cat’s skin, causing itchy skin. Itchy skin will lead to agitation and the cat will rub, scratch, lick and bite his skin without pause.

Watery Eyes 

The cat inhales the airborne allergen and this will cause a response from the immune system, which will detect the intruder, label it as a threat and secret histamines, which will generate the symptoms, including the watery eyes. If left untreated, the cat may develop conjunctivitis or other eye infections, as the eyes are more sensitive.

Runny Nose

The runny nose is a symptom that occurs in conjunction with the watery eyes. The discharge will be clear and less consistent.

Wheezing and Panting

If the allergens cause a minor swelling of the respiratory passages, the cat will be wheezing and panting in attempt to get the necessary amount of air.

Coughing 

If the allergies are more severe and involve the respiratory tract, the cat may be coughing. The cough will be dry.

Swelling of Face 

If the cat is very allergic to a compound in the litter, he may have a swollen face. This is a warning sign that the cat may also develop an anaphylactic shock.

Anaphylactic Shock

If the allergy to the litter causes a severe allergic reaction, the cat’s air passages may be constricted to the point of not allowing the cat to breathe. This condition is known as anaphylactic shock that requires immediate veterinary care. An epinephrine shot should be administered within 7 minutes of the occurrence of the allergic reaction to prevent coma or even death. If this is the case you should avoid the litter brand and keep an epinephrine dose at hand to prevent future mishaps.

Litter allergies cannot be treated, but can be avoided by switching to a different litter brand. Before choosing a new litter brand, you need to determine the substances the cat is allergic to and choose a litter brand that won’t employ this ingredient. You have to monitor your and see if he doesn’t display allergic reactions to different factors. Cats that develop allergies may be allergic to several factors.

 

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