Although you might not realize it, there are a number of things that your cats can be allergic to. Just like people, cats can develop an allergy to anything at any time in their lives. That said, some allergens cause symptoms much more than others. Here is a list of the top 5 causes of allergies in cats.
#1 – Pollen, Grass & Other Organic Substances
Just like people, one of the most common causes of allergies in cats is organic material found in the environment. Whether it’s a certain type of grass or plant, mold and mildew, dust mites or pollen, these allergens can cause a variety of symptoms in our feline friends.
#2 – Fleas
Fleas are pests even if your cat doesn’t have an allergic reaction to their bite, so keeping them at bay is very important. Some cats are so sensitive, even one or two bites can cause severe symptoms. Either way, keeping fleas away is in the best interest of both felines and humans.
#3 – Food
Certain ingredients in your cat’s food might be causing problems. It might be surprising, but beef, lamb and seafood are the most common meat offenders. Other ingredients include corn, soy, wheat gluten and dairy. If you think your cat is suffering from food allergies, be sure to talk with your veterinarian about changing your cat’s diet.
#4 – Perfumes & Colognes
Cats are especially sensitive to scented products like perfumes and colognes. Remember that these smell much strong to our cats and should therefore be kept away from them. Cats allergic to perfumes and colognes can exhibit severe symptoms and you may need to keep these items out of your home.
#5 – Wool
Cats can be sensitive to any type of bedding, but wool seems to be a major culprit for felines when it comes to contact allergies. If you notice your cat showing symptoms or allergies, it’s always a good idea to make sure she isn’t sleeping or playing around in any wool material.
