Just like people, cats can have allergic reactions. These usually happen within seconds or minutes after contact with the allergen. Triggers can include insect bites or stings, certain foods, chemicals, pollen, dust, and more.

Reactions can be mild or severe. Symptoms may affect only one part of the body, like the skin or stomach, or the whole body. In serious cases, the reaction can be life-threatening.

If you think your cat is having an allergic reaction, get veterinary help right away.

7 Signs of Cat Allergic Reactions

Here are the seven most common signs that a cat may be having an allergic reaction:

1. Itchy Skin and Scratching
Cats with allergies may scratch a lot. This can cause hair loss, red or crusty skin, and skin infections. This type of reaction usually develops slowly.

2. Sneezing and Eye/Nose Discharge
Some cats sneeze or have watery eyes and a runny nose. This is called allergic rhinitis and often happens seasonally, like with pollen.

3. Vomiting and Diarrhea
Food allergies can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or nausea. Sometimes the stool may have blood. The most common food allergens are beef and chicken.

4. Behavioral Changes
Cats with allergies may seem restless or less responsive than usual.

5. Facial Swelling and Hives
Hives may appear as raised fur or bumps on the skin. They can also show up around the eyes, sometimes making it hard for cats to see.

6. Trouble Breathing
A severe reaction may cause:

-Pale gums

-Fast breathing

-Open-mouth breathing

-Belly moving with each breath

-Wheezing or coughing.

If your cat has breathing problems, get emergency help right away.

7. Collapse
In very severe cases, allergies can cause collapse or seizures. This is an emergency—see a vet immediately.

What To Do if Your Cat Is Having an Allergic Reaction

If you think your cat is having an allergic reaction, contact a veterinarian right away.

• Mild symptoms like scratching or small hives may not be an emergency.

• Severe symptoms like trouble breathing or collapse are emergencies.

Because allergy signs can be unclear and may quickly become life-threatening, it’s safest to get veterinary help immediately.

Read more 《How To Prevent Cat Allergic Reactions》

References

Dr. Michael Kearley, DVM Veterinarian

https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/signs-of-cat-allergic-reaction