kitten allergic skin disease


You’ve heard of people being allergic to cats, but did you know that your kitten can have allergies, too? Allergies are a common cause of red, itchy skin in young cats. In fact, most cat allergies manifest in the skin rather than the hay fever that we usually see in people. 

Common types of allergies in young cats

The common types of allergies in cats include the following:

Flea allergies 

Cats can have an allergic reaction to flea saliva. One flea bite is enough to trigger an allergic reaction in some cats.

Environmental allergies or atopy

Environmental allergens can include pollens, molds, dust mites and more. Environmental allergies can be seasonal, particularly if pollens are responsible. However, some environmental allergies can cause year-round skin inflammation and itchiness.

Food allergies

Contrary to popular belief, when a cat has food allergies, it’s usually to the protein source in the food. Common allergens include beef, fish, chicken and dairy. Food allergies will usually cause skin inflammation rather than gastrointestinal signs.

Contact allergies

Some cats will develop an allergic reaction to something they’ve come into contact with, such as a topical parasite preventive or a specific detergent.

Symptoms of allergies in young cats

Keeping in mind that most allergies in cats cause skin inflammation, most signs will relate to the skin. Skin manifestation of allergies in cats include:

  • Red and inflamed skin (erythema)
  • Itchiness (pruritus)
  • Hair loss (alopecia), often patchy 
  • Scabs or sores on the skin
  • Small red bumps on the skin

Treatment of allergies in young cats

Allergies in cats can be frustrating for pet owners in the beginning steps of management: What’s my cat allergic to? Are they constantly uncomfortable? What’s going to help them? Your VCA care team understands these concerns and will work with you to manage your cat’s allergies. Management options may include immunosuppressive medications like cyclosporine (Atopica®), allergy shots, antihistamines, steroids and/or allergy diets.

If you’re concerned that your young cat or kitten may be suffering from allergies, contact your VCA care team to set up an appointment. In some cases, you may be referred to a dermatologist for more specialized diagnostics and treatment. 

Find out more about food allergies in cats.