Can Cats Have Allergies? Learn the Symptoms

Are you wondering, “Can cats have allergies?” or “Do cats get allergies in the spring?” and “What’s a good cat food for allergies?” In this article, we will explore the types of cat allergies and common signs of allergies in cats to watch for.  

To dive into how allergies are diagnosed and how to treat allergies in cats, including allergy meds for cats, please see these articles on diagnosis and treatment.

Can Cats Get Allergies?

Perhaps you’ve asked yourself, “Does my cat have allergies?” If this is the case, then you’ve come to the right place to learn more.

Yes, cats can absolutely have allergies. Just like in people, an allergy in cats occurs when the immune system overreacts to something that is normally harmless, such as pollen, dust mites, flea bites, or certain food ingredients. These allergic reactions can cause a range of symptoms, most often affecting the skin.  

Although cats can get seasonal allergies, cats can also have other allergies. Identifying the type of allergy is the first step toward managing their clinical signs and helping them live more comfortably.  

Types of Allergies in Cats

So what are cats allergic to? Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of feline allergies and how they might show up in your cat.

Feline Atopic Syndrome (FAS)¹

Veterinarians now use the term feline atopic syndrome, or FAS, to describe a range of allergic conditions in cats, including skin allergies, food allergies, and even asthma. In the past, you may have heard the term feline hypersensitivity dermatitis, but FAS is a more complete way to capture how these allergies affect different parts of a cat’s body, such as the skin, lungs, and digestive system.

Feline Atopic Skin Syndrome (FASS)/Environmental Allergies^1,2

When a cat’s allergy affects mostly the skin, especially because of environmental triggers like dust mites, mold, or pollen, it falls under feline atopic skin syndrome, or FASS. Cats with FASS often itch, lick, or scratch excessively. They may develop sores, scabs, or bald spots, sometimes even before their third birthday. FASS can look a lot like other types of skin allergies in cats, including reactions to fleas or food, and may even have a combination of those, which can make diagnosis tricky.

While any cat can be affected, studies suggest that Abyssinian, Maine Coon, Persian, and Siamese cats may be more prone to allergic skin diseases. Still, mixed-breed cats are the most commonly affected simply because they make up the largest group of pet cats in North America.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) in Cats³

Fleas are more than just a nuisance. Some cats are allergic to flea saliva, and even a single bite can cause intense itching and skin irritation, especially around the back, tail base, and thighs. This type of flea allergy in cats is known as flea allergy dermatitis, or FAD, and it often overlaps with signs of FASS, making it important to rule out fleas when diagnosing other allergies.

Food Allergies in Cats⁴

Cats can develop allergies to specific ingredients in their food, even if they’ve been eating the same brand for years. The most common culprits are beef, fish, and chicken. Food allergy in cats often shows up as itchy skin, especially around the head and neck, or as hair loss and scabs from overgrooming. Some cats may also have vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestive issues.

Mosquito Allergy in Cats⁵

Believe it or not, some cats can be allergic to mosquito bites. This type of allergy can cause red, crusty sores, especially around the nose, ears, and paw pads. It’s more common in geographic regions where mosquitoes are endemic and tends to worsen during warmer months.

For allergies in cats, symptoms being recognized early can make a big difference – let’s take a closer look at the most common allergy symptoms in cats.

Common Allergy Symptoms in Cats

Cats with allergies often show a variety of skin-related symptoms, although some may also have digestive or respiratory signs. Because these symptoms often look like other skin issues, it can be difficult to identify the cause of the itch only based on signs.

Signs of allergies in cats include²:

• Itching or scratching
• Excessive grooming or hair loss
• Red or inflamed skin
• Scabs or crusty bumps, especially on the back or belly (miliary dermatitis)
• Open sores or wounds from scratching, often on the head, face, or neck
• Ulcers, raised plaques, or thickened skin around the lips, belly, or thighs
• Hair loss and scabbing around the tail base or lower back
• Vomiting or diarrhea  
• Watery eyes, sneezing, or mild respiratory signs (not as common)

When to See the Veterinarian

If your cat shows any of these signs, especially if symptoms continue, get worse or affect their daily comfort, it is time to schedule a veterinary visit. Your veterinarian can help identify the cause, rule out other conditions and recommend a treatment plan to help your cat feel better. Early diagnosis can also help prevent complications from self-trauma or untreated allergies.

Diagnosing Allergies in Cats

Diagnosing allergies in cats can take time and a thoughtful, step-by-step approach to identify the type of allergy causing your cat’s symptoms. Your veterinarian will also want to know some information about your cat’s home life, like what kind of food your cat eats and interactions with other animals.  

Treating Allergies in Cats

Managing allergies in cats often requires a combination of treatments tailored to your cat’s specific needs. Medications, flea protection, and diet changes are among the possible treatment options.  

Cat Allergy FAQ

How can you tell if your cat has allergies? 

Cats with allergies often show signs through their skin. You might notice excessive scratching, licking, or grooming, especially around the head, neck, belly, or tail base. Other signs include hair loss, scabs, red or inflamed skin and sometimes vomiting, diarrhea, or sneezing. Because these symptoms can also be caused by issues other than allergies in cats, it’s best to schedule a veterinary visit for a proper diagnosis.

What can I give my cat for allergies? 

Never give your cat over-the-counter allergy medications made for humans, because some can be dangerous or even life-threatening. Treatment depends on the type of allergy and may include prescription medications like steroids, cyclosporine, or other immune-modulating drugs. Your veterinarian may also recommend parasite control, a special diet, or immunotherapy. The right treatment plan will be tailored to your cat’s needs and symptoms.

What foods are cats most allergic to? 

The most common food allergens for cats include beef, chicken, and fish. Some cats may also react to the protein in plant sources like grains, legumes, and others, as well as dairy proteins. Diagnosing a food allergy requires a special diet trial using either a hydrolyzed or novel protein food for at least 8 weeks. If symptoms improve and then return when the old food is reintroduced, a food allergy is confirmed.