How to Treat Allergies in Cats

Successful treatment of allergies in cats depends on accurately diagnosing the cause of symptoms. As with people, this treatment typically involves either avoiding allergens when possible (for example, by feeding a different food) or using regular medication to control symptoms if the allergen cannot be eliminated. Immunotherapy is also an option for some cats. While your regular veterinarian can offer many treatment options, some allergic cats benefit from specialized treatment.

Allergy Treatment for Cats

Managing allergies in cats often requires a combination of treatments tailored to your cat’s specific needs. Depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following options.

Medications to Control Itching and Inflammation

Many cats with moderate to severe itching or inflamed skin benefit from prescription medications. These may include:

• Steroids (glucocorticoids) for quick and reliable relief. They are often used first when itching is intense or lesions are widespread.
• Cyclosporine, which is effective for long-term control, though it may take time to provide relief.
• Antihistamines, which may help in some cats, especially if mild symptoms are present or if upper respiratory signs are also involved. However, they are usually not strong enough for severe itchiness or inflammation.
• Topical or oral treatment. Topical allergy treatments can be effective, but because many cats dislike sprays or shampoos, oral medications are often more practical.

Do not give your cat over-the-counter allergy medications meant for people unless specifically directed by your veterinarian.  

Ectoparasite Control  

Even if fleas or mites are not immediately visible, ruling out external parasites is a key step in treating itchy skin. Your veterinarian will often recommend a reliable flea and mite treatment, especially early in the process.

Treating Secondary Infections

Cats with skin allergies often develop secondary infections from bacteria or yeast, especially when they scratch or overgroom.

• If bacteria are found, treatment may include antibiotics, such as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, clindamycin or a long-acting injection like cefovecin.
• If yeast (Malassezia) is present, antifungal medications may be prescribed.
• A culture and sensitivity test may be recommended if the infection is persistent or caused by less common bacteria.

Nutrition and Long-Term Diet Management  

For a food allergy in cats, long-term diet changes are essential to managing symptoms.

• Cats should be fed a therapeutic hydrolyzed diet (like Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA) or novel protein (such as rabbit, kangaroo or alligator, but will depend on individual cats).
• If a specific food allergen is identified, a limited-ingredient, over-the-counter diet may work, but these must be chosen carefully, and success may be sporadic.
• Palatability is important, especially for picky eaters. Cats may prefer dry, wet or a combination of formulations.
• Once a diet is working, it is important to stick with it for life. Any treats must also be hydrolyzed or a novel protein, and no people food can be given.

Immunotherapy for Environmental Allergies in Cats

Cats can be allergic to specific food ingredients and flea bites as well as many things in the environment, including dust mites and pollen. Immunotherapy is often a great option for environmental allergies in cats (FASS).

• Allergy tests help identify which allergens to include in the therapy, but they do not confirm whether a cat is allergic. These tests are used to customize allergy treatment for cats, not to make a diagnosis.
• Your veterinarian may recommend either injectable immunotherapy (cat allergy shots) or sublingual (oral) drops based on what works best for your cat and lifestyle.
• Most pet owners start with injections for ease, but both options can be effective.
• If immunotherapy is being considered, your veterinarian may recommend referral to a veterinary dermatologist for testing and formulation adjustments.

Additional Therapies  

Some additional therapies may help manage mild allergies or reduce the need for other medications.

• Antihistamines may help in cats with mild symptoms or respiratory signs.
• Nutraceuticals, like essential fatty acids or ultra-micronized palmitoylethanolamide, may offer some benefit when used consistently.
• Skin barrier support, such as spot-on products with fatty acids or essential oils, may be helpful in mildly affected cats, although more research is needed.

Outlook for Allergies in Cats  

Your veterinarian will create a treatment plan based on your cat’s specific needs and how they respond over time, and it’s important to remember that even with the right treatment, some itch might remain. It may take some trial and error to find the best combination, but many cats with allergies can be well managed with the right care and follow-up.