Seasonal allergies in cats are allergies that flare up because of allergens that are common during certain times of the year. These allergens can cause the body’s immune system to overreact, leading to a few uncomfortable symptoms.

Knowing what to watch for can make a big difference. With the right care, you can manage your cat’s seasonal allergies and give them a comfortable life. 

But before that, let’s talk about everything there is to know about cat seasonal allergies.

What Causes Seasonal Allergies in Cats?

Allergens tend to flare up during specific times of the year. These allergens can be inhaled, come in contact with your cat’s skin, or stick to their fur and paws. These include: 

• Mold Spores. As leaves pile up or humidity rises, mold finds the perfect opportunity to grow. Mold is common in bathrooms, litter areas, and inside air vents. 
• Dust and Dust Mites. These allergens tend to flare up during the hotter times of the year, from late spring to summer. 
• Tree Pollen. Spring is a common season for tree pollen. Even if your cat stays indoors, tree pollen can still get inside through open windows, doors, or on your clothes.
• Grass Pollen. Different types of grasses, such as Bermuda and Timothy, release pollen that can stick to your cat’s fur or paws. These are common during the summer. 
• Weed Pollen. Weed pollen is prevalent from late summer to fall. Their pollen is lightweight, meaning it can easily be carried by the wind.

What are the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Cats?

When it comes to cats, they might not show the most obvious signs, so it’s best to keep a good eye. Here are the common symptoms observed by the experts at Noble Vet Clinics: 

• Excessive Grooming. Affected cats tend to overgroom themselves, licking or chewing their paws, belly, or sides. This is their way of trying to relieve the discomfort.
• Hair Loss or Bald Patches. Excessive grooming can lead to hair loss. This is quite common in areas such as the belly, legs, and the area around the neck.
• Red and Inflamed Skin. Allergic reactions can make your cat’s skin look pink, inflamed, or even scabby. This can be a combination of the body’s reaction and your cat’s scratching.
• Ear Infections. If your cat’s ears become inflamed, they can become suitable environments for bacteria and fungi to grow, resulting in ear infections.
• Sneezing and Watery Eyes. Since allergens like pollen and dust are airborne, they can easily come into contact with your cat’s eyes and nose, leading to irritation and mild respiratory symptoms.
• Behavior Changes. The constant discomfort may make your cat more irritable, anxious, or withdrawn. They might hide and find places where they can avoid being touched.

How are Cat Seasonal Allergies Diagnosed?

Allergic reactions can look like several different skin issues, which means ruling out the possibilities will be a big part of the diagnostic process. These include:

Physical Exam and History

Noble Vet Clinic’s team generally starts with a dermatology exam and review of your cat’s medical history. They’ll note the symptoms, living conditions, and level of activity. 

Ruling Out Possibilities

To get a definite diagnosis, other possibilities will have to be ruled out. This includes: 

• Flea Allergy Dermatitis. Vets will look for flea dirt or live fleas using a specific flea comb. If fleas aren’t visible, blood tests, skin scrapings, and a flea treatment trial will be done. 
• Food Allergies. The most definitive way to diagnose food allergies is through an elimination diet. Your cat will be fed a limited-ingredient or prescription diet with novel proteins for 8 to 12 weeks.
• Mange. Mange can be diagnosed through skin scrapings or clear tape to collect skin cells and debris. These samples are examined under a microscope to look for mites.
• Infections. For infections, vets typically do a cytology or a culture test. These can help identify the microorganisms involved.

Allergy Testing

Allergy testing has two main methods:

• Intradermal Skin Testing. In this test, the cat is sedated, and a small part of its body is shaved. Small amounts of specific allergens are injected under this area of the cat’s skin. If any reaction happens, then the test is positive. 
• Blood Allergy Test. A blood sample will be taken to the lab to test for antibodies that react to specific allergens. The results will show which substances your cat is allergic to. 

How are Seasonal Allergies in Cats Treated?

Once your cat has been diagnosed with seasonal allergies, the vet will recommend a treatment plan.

Medications

These are often the first steps to relieve your cat’s discomfort and reduce inflammation, which includes anti-inflammatory drugs and antihistamines. Corticosteroids can also help suppress the immune system, reducing itch and inflammation. However, long-term use should be avoided.

Allergy Shots and Drops

Allergy immunotherapy can also significantly help manage your cat’s allergies. This works by gradually building up the body’s tolerance to the allergen, helping reduce symptoms. While it takes time, it is an effective treatment option.

Medicated Shampoos and Wipes

A gentle bath with medicated shampoos can help soothe the skin and remove allergens from the coat. If your cat doesn’t prefer baths, specialized wipes can be used to clean the fur, paws, and face.

How are Cat Seasonal Allergies Prevented?

While cat allergies can’t be prevented entirely, several ways to reduce the risk significantly. These include:

1. Regularly Groom Your Cat

Brushing your cat daily helps remove pollen, dust, and other allergens from their coat. Use a soft brush and be gentle. 

2. Clean Your Cat’s Environment

Wash your cat’s bedding regularly to kill dust mites and remove allergens. Be sure to clean the areas your cat frequents, such as their litter box, and use an air purifier to reduce airborne allergens. 

3. Feed a Nutritious Diet

Your cat’s diet plays a massive role in preventing allergies. Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet helps strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. Vet-approved fish oil supplements can also help.

Conclusion

Seasonal allergies can affect any cat, and it’s up to us to help them stay comfortable. By taking a few simple preventive steps, we can keep our cats happy, healthy, and itch-free all season long.