Introduction
Skin allergies in cats are an allergic reaction that occurs on the skin when the cat is exposed to a certain type of allergen. The symptoms of skin allergies in cats are very similar, but there are a number of different types of allergens that can cause skin allergies in cats.
Causes of Skin Allergies in Cats
Skin allergies in cats can occur due to food allergies, allergies to parasites, allergies to pollen or grasses, or allergies to certain types of chemicals. Depending on the cause of the allergy, cats with skin allergies usually begin to develop symptoms by the age of two. These symptoms are often seasonal, and they may disappear in the winter months only to come back with a vengeance during the spring and summer months.
Which Cats are at Risk to Skin Allergies?
Why some cats are so terribly affected by skin allergies, and others are not, remains unknown. There does seem to be a genetic connection, as skin allergies often occur in siblings, or in the offspring of cats that suffer from skin allergies. These types of allergies may also be linked to stress and health. Cats that are particularly anxious or fearful may be more prone to skin allergies, and cats that are in poor health may also succumb more often to skin allergy conditions.
One of the most frustrating aspects to skin allergies in cats is finding out what is causing the allergen. Once symptoms begin to appear, it can take a long time to pinpoint the exact allergen agent. In many cases, the cause of the skin allergy is never discovered, and the only way to calm the symptoms is through continual medical treatments.