7 Effective Cat Allergy Remedies

Cat allergies cannot be treated, but there are cat allergy remedies that can help your cat feel better and relieve the symptoms. A cat that suffers from allergies will have itchiness, rashes, runny nose, coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, vomiting, diarrhea and discolored mucous membranes. The main causes of allergies are food, parasites or airborne allergens in the environment.

1. Antihistamines and Decongestants

Antihistamines and decongestants are prescribed to cats suffering from allergic reactions to pollen, dust, chemicals, mold or other particles that are found in the air, in the environment the cat lives in. Try to minimize the cat's exposure to these factors. The vet will prescribe antihistamines which will be administrated on a regular basis. Make sure to alternate and rotate the antihistamines, as a cat may build up immunity and not respond to the medication after 3 months of the same treatment.

2. Allergy Shots

If you've detected the cause of the allergies, allergy shots may be an efficient treatment for your cat. Antigens will be injected once a week and your cat will be less sensitive to these allergens. The allergy shots are not effective immediately after administration; it may take up to 2 months for the shots to work.

Allergy shots are not effective to treat food allergies.

3. Topical Ointments

Topical ointments are used to ease the itchiness and heal the rashes of the allergic cat. The ointments typically contain steroids, but may contain natural components that are equally effective.

4. Steroids

Steroids may be used if the allergies are severe. Steroids are used for negative reactions to environmental allergens, as well as food allergies and parasites. Steroids have fewer side effects in cats than in humans, so this may be a good treatment option for your pet.

5. Removing Allergens

Most often cats are allergic to certain foods or a component in their litter. Try to observe the behavior of your cat and the possible allergens. Remember that the allergic reaction does not occur immediately. A vet can run some tests and determine the source of allergens.

Replace your cat litter.

Removing or minimizing your pet's exposure to allergens will keep your pet allergy free.

6. Treat Parasites

Parasites cause allergies. Fleas, tick bites and ear mites are just a few parasites that will create allergic reactions in sensitive cats.

The extreme itchiness in your cat may cause him to chew and bite his limbs and may lead to severe infections, so it's best to find the parasites and eliminate them. Your vet will prescribe insecticides, a flea collar and shampoos that are gentle when used and will not cause more irritation.

Remember that after treatment your cat will still have rashes for a few days. Use some topical ointments to relieve the itchiness.

7. Baths and Hypoallergenic Shampoo

Because some allergens are absorbed through the pores of the skin, regular bathing may reduce your cat's allergic reactions to outside factors and relieve itchiness. Using a hypoallergenic shampoo may be a great help.

 

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