Does Your Cat Suffer from Allergies?

Filed in archive Pet Allergies on December 22, 2008

Photo courtesy of iStockphoto, Image# 3203521

Just like humans, your pets can suffer from allergies, too! For cats, for example, did you know that there are four types of allergies? They may have flea, inhalant, food, and contact allergies, or any combinations of the above! The Pets Doctor blog has the details, but here are some basics:

Flea: a severe allergic reaction to even just one bite will result to intense itching and the cat will chew or severely scratch himself and this may cause the hair in the affected area to fall out.

Contact: allergic reactions to bedding, collars, and other household items.

Food: just like people cats may also be allergic to some cat food ingredients like eggs, wheat, corn, chicken, milk, and beef. Symptoms may include respiratory problems, digestive problems, or severe itching.

Inhalant: the equivalent of nasal allergies in people, these are allergic reactions to dust mites, mildew, mold, or pollen.

See the Pet's Doctor for more info, including possible treatments. If you suspect that your pet cat is suffering from allergies, bring him to the vet. Just like human allergies, pet allergies can be managed pretty well with the right approach.