Allergic Dermatitis in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments Explained by a Veterinarian

Many pet owners have likely experienced hives from food or other causes. These symptoms are referred to as allergic dermatitis, and just like humans, cats can also develop allergic dermatitis. In this article, we will explain allergic dermatitis in cats.

What is Feline Allergic Dermatitis? Explaining Symptoms and Characteristics

Definition and Onset Mechanism of Allergic Dermatitis

Allergic dermatitis is a condition where an allergic reaction occurs because the immune system overreacts to substances (allergens) that enter a cat's body, resulting in symptoms such as itching and eczema. It can sometimes have a seasonal component, occurring at the same time every year.

Strictly defined, a hypersensitivity disorder where the reaction to allergens manifests in the skin, digestive tract, or respiratory system is called feline atopy syndrome. Feline atopy syndrome includes flea allergy dermatitis, feline atopic skin syndrome, feline food allergy, and feline asthma. Flea allergy dermatitis, feline atopic skin syndrome, and feline food allergy, which manifest with skin symptoms, are referred to as allergic dermatitis.

■ Major Diseases Included in Feline Atopy Syndrome

Typical Symptoms: Itching, Hair Loss, and Redness

Cats with allergic dermatitis may itch their faces and ears, showing scratch marks on these areas and the neck. You may also see bumpy eczema. Because they lick frequently due to the itching, hair loss, skin redness, and sores may occur.

Since these symptoms can also appear with other types of dermatitis, it is impossible to diagnose allergic dermatitis based on appearance alone.

Main Causes of Feline Allergic Dermatitis

Food Allergy

Cats may show allergic reactions to specific substances contained in their food. Chicken, fish, and beef have been reported as high-probability causes of feline food allergies.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis

This is an allergic reaction to substances found in flea saliva. Regardless of the number of fleas, dermatitis appears systemically, not just at the site of the bite.

Environmental Allergy

Environmental allergy refers to a reaction to allergens present in the environment, such as house dust or pollen. Because it occurs during seasons when these allergens increase, symptoms may become more severe at specific times of the year.

Contact Allergy

A contact allergy occurs when there is an allergic reaction to something that has touched the skin directly. Potential causes include shampoos, detergents, or plastic food bowls.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Feline Allergic Dermatitis

Diagnosis Process by a Veterinarian (Skin Examinations, Allergy Tests, Elimination Diet Trials)

Diagnosing allergic dermatitis in cats begins by checking the state of the dermatitis and differentiating it from other causes (fungal, demodectic mange, scabies, viral, bacterial, tumors, or psychogenic). Once these other skin diseases have been ruled out, the vet checks if the cat meets diagnostic criteria, such as the presence of characteristic skin symptoms, hair loss, or lesions on the face and mouth. If these criteria are met, the diagnosis is confirmed through allergy testing or an elimination diet trial to identify specific allergens.

Treatment Options

Treatment for allergic dermatitis is conducted using steroids or immunosuppressants. For canine atopic dermatitis, molecular targeted drugs that precisely suppress substances related to itching are used, and these may also be used for cats.

Flea Allergy Prevention

In flea allergies, symptoms appear systemically regardless of the number of fleas. Therefore, the regular use of flea control medication is essential. Fleas can potentially emerge in indoor environments year-round, making it necessary to administer flea control medication throughout the year. Additionally, clean your home frequently to eliminate fleas.

Management of Food Allergies

In food allergies, the reaction is triggered by allergens contained in the cat's food. Diagnosing a food allergy requires identifying the allergen. Once identified, it is necessary to use an elimination diet that excludes that allergen or switch to an allergy-friendly food that uses proteins less likely to trigger a reaction.

Preventive Measures for Feline Allergic Dermatitis

Reviewing Diet

Feline allergic dermatitis can be prevented to some extent. Food allergies cannot be completely prevented because they are reactions to consumed food. However, excessive additives or feeding human food can put a burden on the body, not just cause allergies. Very inexpensive food may contain many additives, so choose food from a trusted source. Food containing omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.

Maintaining Living Environment and Regular Deworming

Feline allergic dermatitis can be caused by flea allergies. While fleas are often thought of as outdoor pests, they can enter the home on human clothing, shoes, or bags. Fleas are active and breed when the average temperature is 14°C (57°F) or higher. Therefore, if they get indoors, they can multiply. Besides frequent vacuuming to maintain cleanliness, drying bedding in the sun is also effective for eliminating fleas.

Sometimes, just adjusting the indoor environment is not enough for flea prevention. Even if your cat does not have an allergy, regular flea control is important.

Summary

Feline allergic dermatitis is a condition where the skin reacts to fleas, food, or house dust. The itching is intense and tends to recur. Treatment involves controlling the itch, avoiding contact with allergens, and regular flea control. It is also important to switch food and keep the indoor environment clean.