Is your feline companion constantly itching, sneezing, or showing signs of discomfort? Seasonal allergies could be the culprit.

For cat parents, we forget that our pets can also suffer from the same environmental allergies that affect us.

As a veterinarian at BetterVet, seasonal allergies in cats is something I come across every Spring.

Key Takeaways

  • Cats, like humans, do suffer from seasonal allergies. 
  • Cat allergies can occur any time of year, but spring, summer, and fall are typically the worst seasons for cat allergens.
  • With the help of a veterinarian, your cat’s symptoms can turn around quickly with an individualized allergy treatment plan that includes both medical and at-home remedies. 

In this comprehensive guide, I'll explain the topic of feline seasonal allergies, including symptoms, types, and treatments.

What are Seasonal Allergies in Cats?

Seasonal allergies in cats are reactions to environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites, occurring during specific seasons. These allergies can cause sneezing, itching, and respiratory issues, and are managed by reducing allergen exposure and medical treatment.

Do Cats Get Seasonal Allergies?

Yes, seasonal allergies in cats occur when a cat's immune system overreacts to foreign substances or particles called allergens. Environmental allergies are more prevalent during certain seasons of the year, especially the spring when everything starts to thaw and bloom.

Cat Allergy Types and Symptoms

Just like with humans, the severity and type of symptoms can vary widely from one cat to another. Seasonal allergies in cats can present a variety of symptoms, including discomfort and irritation of the skin, respiratory tract, and eyes.

The most common symptoms of seasonal allergies in cats include:

Skin Irritations

This is one of the most common symptoms. Cats may display signs of itchiness, redness, and inflammation. They may excessively scratch, lick, or bite certain areas, often leading to hair loss.

Respiratory Issues

Sneezing, coughing, and wheezing can occur if the cat's respiratory system reacts to the allergen.

Eye Discharge and Conjunctivitis

Cats may experience watery eyes, redness, swelling, or a sticky yellow or green discharge.

Ear Infections

Allergies can lead to ear infections in cats, causing them to scratch their ears, shake their heads, or have discharge from the ears.

Behavioral Changes

Cats may become more irritable or anxious due to the discomfort caused by allergies. Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns may also occur.

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

Let’s Start!
Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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How to Treat Cat Seasonal Allergies

Cat seasonal allergies can be managed with a variety of treatments and lifestyle changes.

Remember, each cat is unique, so what works for one may not work for another. It's important to work closely with your veterinarian to create an allergy treatment plan that's best suited for your feline friend's specific needs.

Follow these steps to treat your cat’s seasonal allergies:

Allergy and Dermatology Consultation

Book an allergy and dermatology exam with a licensed veterinarian to determine the cause of your cat’s allergies and to make the best treatment plan moving forward.

Avoidance of Common Allergens

Although it’s difficult to determine what cats are allergic to, this is the most effective treatment. If you can identify the allergen and it's something you can reasonably avoid (like a certain plant outside), removing or avoiding the allergen can help.

Antihistamines

Your veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications to reduce allergic reactions. Some human allergy medications, like Benadryl and Zyrtec may also be appropriate for your cat if recommended by your vet.

Prescription or over-the-counter topical creams or ointments may also be used to alleviate skin irritations.

Does Your Pet Have Skin Allergies?

Let’s Start!
Does Your Pet Have Skin Allergies?
1. How frequently does your pet seem itchy?
2. Where does your pet scratch the most?
3. Which season is your pet’s symptoms the most noticeable?
4. How often does your pet seem uncomfortable?
5. Can you see any of the following symptoms on your pet’s skin?
6. Is your pet experiencing any of the following symptoms?

Does Your Pet Have Skin Allergies?

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Veterinary Immunotherapy

If the allergen is identified through allergy testing, immunotherapy can be a long-term solution. This involves giving your cat injections of small amounts of the allergen, with the aim of desensitizing their immune system to it over time.

Home Remedies for Cat Seasonal Allergies

Some home remedies may interact with medications your cat is taking, or they may not be suitable for cats with certain health conditions.

However, if your vet gives the okay, here are things you can try at home that might provide some relief: 

Spring Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your home during the Spring can reduce the amount of allergens your cat is exposed to. This includes vacuuming carpets, washing bedding, and cleaning furniture.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids can help decrease inflammation associated with allergies. This can be given as a supplement or through diet with vet guidance.

Kitty Bath Time

Regular bathing can help remove allergens from your cat's skin and coat. Be sure to use a gentle, hypoallergenic cat shampoo. Air Purifiers can help remove allergens from the air inside your home.

Cat-Safe Quercetin

Quercetin is a natural supplement that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It's sometimes called "nature's Benadryl" due to its antihistamine effects.

Coconut Oil 

Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can be applied topically to soothe skin irritations.

Managing Your Cats' Seasonal Allergies

Caring for a cat suffering from seasonal allergies can be challenging but with the right knowledge and support, it can be quite manageable.

Whether the allergens are pollen, molds, or dust mites, there are numerous solutions to alleviate your cat's discomfort. BetterVet offers Allergy and Dermatology Consultations in the comfort of your home to minimize your cat’s stress and discomfort. Book an appointment to stay on top of your cat’s seasonal allergies!

Does Your Pet Have Itchy Paws or Flaky Skin?

Our veterinarians can bring relief. Schedule a visit for allergy testing in the comfort of your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose BetterVet?

Common seasonal allergens for cats include pollen from grasses, trees, and weeds, mold spores, dust mites, and even certain insects.

What is the difference between seasonal allergies and food allergies in cats?

Seasonal allergies are often seasonal and are usually related to allergens like pollen, grass, mold, and dust mites. Meanwhile, food allergies are strictly related to certain ingredients in your cats' food they are allergic to.

How are seasonal allergies in cats diagnosed?

If your veterinarian suspects seasonal allergies, they might recommend allergy testing. There are two primary methods of allergy testing in cats: blood tests and intradermal skin tests.

Can indoor cats also suffer from seasonal allergies?

Yes, indoor cats can also suffer from seasonal allergies, although it might seem less likely given their limited exposure to the outdoors. Allergens such as pollen, mold spores, and dust mites can easily make their way indoors through open windows, on clothes, or on shoes. These allergens can cause allergic reactions in sensitive cats.

What time of year are seasonal allergies worst for cats?

The severity and timing of seasonal allergies in cats can depend on geographic location and the specific allergens that your cat reacts to. For example, some cats might have allergic reactions to tree pollens that are common in the spring, while others might react to grass or weed pollens that are more prevalent in the summer or fall. Indoor allergens, like dust mites or mold spores, might cause symptoms year-round or may be worse in the winter when windows are closed and heating systems are running.

How long do seasonal allergies last in cats?

The duration of seasonal allergies in cats depends on the allergen and the time of year. Symptoms could last for just a few weeks during the peak of pollen season, or they could continue for several months if the cat is reacting to multiple allergens that are present at different times of the year. Some cats might have symptoms year-round if they're reacting to indoor allergens.

Can I use human allergy medication for my cat?

You should not give your cat human allergy medication unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. Certain medications that are safe for humans can be toxic to cats.

Sources

  • Jensen-Jarolim, E., Einhorn, L., Herrmann, I. et al. Pollen Allergies in Humans and their Dogs, Cats and Horses: Differences and Similarities. Clin Transl Allergy 5, 15 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13601-015-0059-6

  • Bajwa J. Atopic dermatitis in cats. Can Vet J. 2018 Mar;59(3):311-313. PMID: 29599562; PMCID: PMC5819051.