Cat Allergies & Breathing
- If your pet displays allergic symptoms, take note of its activities.white angora cat eating from food bowl image by Stephen Orsillo from Fotolia.com
Some items to which your cat can be allergic include food, fleas, pollen, chemicals and cigarette smoke. If your pet displays symptoms of breathing problems and excessive sneezing, constant scratching or licking, diarrhea, watery eyes or even hives, this is most likely an indication your cat has allergies to something in or around the home. If your pet only shows these symptoms at certain times, try to take note of what your cat's activity was prior to the onset of these signs. - Just like us, cats can get hay fever.nose of a cat image by Dagmara Czechowska from Fotolia.com
Unlike humans, allergies in cats are not normally displayed by breathing problems but are more often seen in skin irritations or intestinal problems. However, cats that are allergic to cigarette smoke or other types of tobacco products can, over time, develop asthma. Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors, may also be more susceptible to hay fever, with symptoms very similar to those in people, including runny noses and sneezing. - Your veterinarian can check for allergies using skin tests.prepairing image by Sandor Kacso from Fotolia.com
If you suspect your pet is showing signs of distress due to an allergic reaction, consulting with your veterinarian is the best response. Your vet can test your cat for various allergies using skin tests similar to those used on people. If it's a food allergy, the best way to make sure is to put your cat on a 12-week course of a hydrolyzed protein diet, which can be prescribed by your veterinarian. - Cleaning and vacuuming your home regularly can help reduce allergic reactions in your pet.vacuum cleaner image by vb_photo from Fotolia.com
Depending on the cause, there are steps you can take to help lessen or prevent the effects of allergens on your cat. If your cat is allergic to dust or pollen, keeping your environment clean by regular vacuuming and dusting (approximately twice a week) should help quite a bit. Using low-dust, chemical-free cat litter can also be helpful. When fleas are the culprit, starting your pet on a prescription or holistic flea control product before the spring and summer months can keep fleas at bay. - Your vet can prescribe various medications for pet allergies.medicine image by maxuser from Fotolia.com
There are several prescription medications your veterinarian can give your pet for the relief of allergies. Your vet may prescribe antihistamines, steroids, flea medication or maybe even just food supplements. The most important factor is knowing what your cat is allergic to, which generally means a thorough vet exam. Never give your pet allergy medication intended for human consumption unless directed by your vet. Human medications and even holistic herbs can be deadly to your cat..
