Allergy is common in cats. A feline allergic reaction is caused by atopy, fleas and parasites, diet or chemicals. An allergic reaction occurs when the body comes in contact with a substance that causes the immune system to react as if it is dangerous. Feline allergies are different from the sneezing and watery eyes seen in humans. In cats, allergic reactions primarily affect the skin, but can also affect the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
Flea allergy occurs when cats are not treated with a preventative or when these types of products are not consistently used. A Flea feeds almost immediately after finding a cat. Indications of flea dermatitis are in areas that cannot be reached, such as the apex of the tail or on the neck. Treatment starts with the use of a product that removes fleas followed by the use of a preventative to stop any new problems.
Atopy is also also frequently diagnosed. Inhaled seasonal allergens are mold or pollen. Signs of nhalant dermatitis are alopecia, skin inflammation and itch. Skin lesions include ulcers, cat acne and larger abrasions called granulomas. Itching or scratching introduces secondary issues such as infection. Steroids such as prednisone are used to reduce any inflammation. Fish oil can help the healing process.
Last, dietary allergy is triggered when a cat has a hypersensitive reaction to an ingredient. There are forty ingredients in commercial cat food. Food sensitivity is often confused with food intolerance. Food allergy is an unnatural immune system response, while food intolerance happens when the body has trouble metabolizing food. Both lead to indications such as skin inflammation and hair loss. Common dietary allergens are chicken, egg, protein, beef, wheat, soy, corn, fish and oats. Indications of food allergy are itch, and skin lesions on the head and neck. Skin injury is the direct result of licking or scratching a problem spot. Signs of Gastrointestinal problems are diarrhea or vomiting.
Treatment for allergy starts with the identification and removal of the cause. To reach a specific diagnosis, lab testing or other diagnostic methods are used. For food allergy an elimination diet helps to figure out the problem ingredient. For respiratory allergies, moving a cat in-doors or using a vacuum with a filter can help. Allergy shots can help to reduce any sensitivity or reduce the severity of any reaction.
Flea allergy occurs when cats are not treated with a preventative or when these types of products are not consistently used. A Flea feeds almost immediately after finding a cat. Indications of flea dermatitis are in areas that cannot be reached, such as the apex of the tail or on the neck. Treatment starts with the use of a product that removes fleas followed by the use of a preventative to stop any new problems.
Atopy is also also frequently diagnosed. Inhaled seasonal allergens are mold or pollen. Signs of nhalant dermatitis are alopecia, skin inflammation and itch. Skin lesions include ulcers, cat acne and larger abrasions called granulomas. Itching or scratching introduces secondary issues such as infection. Steroids such as prednisone are used to reduce any inflammation. Fish oil can help the healing process.
Last, dietary allergy is triggered when a cat has a hypersensitive reaction to an ingredient. There are forty ingredients in commercial cat food. Food sensitivity is often confused with food intolerance. Food allergy is an unnatural immune system response, while food intolerance happens when the body has trouble metabolizing food. Both lead to indications such as skin inflammation and hair loss. Common dietary allergens are chicken, egg, protein, beef, wheat, soy, corn, fish and oats. Indications of food allergy are itch, and skin lesions on the head and neck. Skin injury is the direct result of licking or scratching a problem spot. Signs of Gastrointestinal problems are diarrhea or vomiting.
Treatment for allergy starts with the identification and removal of the cause. To reach a specific diagnosis, lab testing or other diagnostic methods are used. For food allergy an elimination diet helps to figure out the problem ingredient. For respiratory allergies, moving a cat in-doors or using a vacuum with a filter can help. Allergy shots can help to reduce any sensitivity or reduce the severity of any reaction.
About the Author:
Cathy Doggins is the writer of the highly rated http://www.cat-health-guide.org as well as many articles on cat health. When not writing abou t cats and kittens, Cathy can be found caring for her three cats, two dogs and pet lizard. She is a frequent speaker on pet issues and enjoys volunteering at local small animal shelters.
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