Cats Get Hay Fever Too

Start your search
Filter by Categories
Cat Advice
Kitten Advice
Dog Advice
Puppy Advice
Rabbit Advice

It may sound odd, but cats are every bit as prone to hay fever as humans are. However, the symptoms are different and your cat may be suffering although you don’t recognise it as hay fever.

Rather than sneezing, cats that are allergic to tree pollen or grass are more likely to suffer skin irritations and they can feel quite ill, so watch for the following symptoms:

How to spot hay fever in your cat

  • Scratching that goes beyond normal grooming, especially around the bottom and ears
  • Sores or missing patches of fur on the face or neck (caused by scratching)
  • Itchy eyes
  • Snoring – caused by an inflamed throat
  • Chewing at the paws.

Rule out fleas

Some of the above symptoms are more commonly associated with fleas, so it’s best to rule them out before consulting your vet for allergy advice. Check your cat’s coat for flea droppings and make sure you’re up to date with monthly treatments.

Can you prevent hay fever in your cat?

If your pet has an allergy the only sure-fire way to prevent it is to remove the source – but when it comes to pollens that’s almost impossible to do unless yours is an indoor cat. You could try washing your pet fairly regularly with a recommended shampoo and brushing them daily.

Treatment

Anti-histamines and anti-allergy vaccines can be very effective at treating your cat’s allergies, so if you feel your cat is suffering from hay fever – or any other allergy – the best option is to visit the vet nurse at your local practice to get specific advice.

The best health care for your pet.

Join to spread the cost.