You might be surprised, but a dog can develop an allergy to a cat. In the same way, that we suffer from itchy eyes and runny noses when in proximity to our feline friends, dogs can experience similar symptoms. So if you’ve detected coughing, sneezing, skin rashes, and allergic symptoms in your pooch, your cat could be the culprit. Let’s take a closer look at whether dogs can form a cat allergy and what you can do to manage it.
Is It Possible for Dogs to Be Allergic to Cats?
It’s rare for a dog to have a cat allergy but when it does happen, it’s very uncomfortable for your fur friend. It’s easy to mistake their symptoms for other types of allergies involving food or pollen. However, if these symptoms persist and there is a cat in the house, there is a good chance that they’re experiencing a feline allergic reaction.
A pet-to-pet allergy is not something that any cat or dog owner wants to deal with. But, if it becomes a reality, it’s important to know how to manage it to ease your dog’s symptoms and improve their comfort. If you’re at your wits end as to what is causing your pup’s itching and sneezing, speak to your local veterinarian to clear things up.
How Do I Know if My Dog is Allergic to My Cat?
When your dog has a sensitivity to cats, they will exhibit symptoms similar to those of hay fever in humans. Symptoms include inflamed skin, a runny nose, chronic itching, wheezing, sneezing, red eyes, and hair loss. Some canines will develop bald patches on their skin because of constant licking and scratching.
Their chronic itchiness is caused by the disruption of a healthy skin barrier, allowing dirt and contaminants to enter the skin and create inflammation. You may see pustules or crusting on the skin, known as pyoderma, particularly on the paws and abdomen. The more histamine that is released in response to the allergen, the more they will lick, chew, and scratch the affected areas.
How are Dogs Diagnosed with an Allergy to Cats?
A veterinarian will rule out other conditions by performing an intradermal or blood test. This can reveal whether dogs have feline sensitivity, in addition to assessing their medical history and symptoms. A physical exam can identify skin inflammation and scabbing, which are signs of itchiness. It’s important to tell your vet about all of your dog’s symptoms so they can provide the best possible management plan.
Don’t leave their symptoms untreated because you may end up with a secondary issue. For instance, if your fur friend is scratching and licking at their skin and causing sores, it increases the risk of an infection. My own dog was affected by a bacterial or Staphylococcus (staph) skin infection, which caused awful itchy bumps, scabs, and hair loss. It required weekly shampoos, which weren’t pleasant in the winter and took months to heal. It’s a good idea to act quickly as it could prevent unnecessary complications that are disruptive to you and your fur friend.
Why are Dogs Allergic to Cats?
Dogs are not allergic to the cat’s hair but rather to the proteins in their saliva and dander. These are the same proteins that cause allergic reactions in people. Bulldogs, poodles, and even boxers are in the high-risk bracket for allergies. It doesn’t necessarily mean that they will develop a cat allergy, but they’re certainly more prone to these types of conditions. Another risk factor is age, as senior pets are at higher risk of sensitivities and intolerances. Ultimately, you need to investigate why your dog is showing signs of itching, sneezing, and coughing. Look at their food, keep their bedding clean, and if their discomfort persists, it’s best to have them examined by a vet.
Treating Cat Allergies in Dogs
If your dog is diagnosed as having a feline allergy, the good news is that it can be treated. One of the most common therapies is immunotherapy, where the dog is exposed to the allergen using a drop or injection. Over time, it’s meant to strengthen their tolerance and ease their symptoms. Antihistamine pills and creams can relieve itching and inflammation, and if a bacterial infection sets in, a veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics and antifungals.
A healthy diet and the use of immune-boosting supplements shouldn’t be discounted when managing chronic conditions in pets. Adding fatty acids in the form of Omega 3 and 6 can improve the condition of the skin. Dermal shampoos will remove pet dander and keep the skin clean.
How to Help a Dog with a Cat Allergy
The best way to help your dog if they are diagnosed with an allergy to cats is to remove as much of the dander as possible. Regular vacuuming will eliminate contaminants, including dirt and dust, that could exacerbate your pup’s symptoms. Over-the-counter remedies are available for itchy skin and respiratory irritation, but always discuss these options with your vet to avoid additional problems. Not all natural products are good for pets, and some might cause more problems for sensitive dogs.
Finding out that your dog is allergic to your cat is not the best news, but with a management plan, you can give them relief. You don’t have to keep your pets separated, and you don’t have to think of rehoming your feline companion either. Dogs may need a chronic management plan, but with some time and patience, you and your pets can live happily ever after.
