Mary Allen
Cats can also show allergic reactions, for example, if they suffer from a pollen allergy. What are the symptoms and what can you do if you suspect your pet is sensitive to pollen?
In the case of a pollen allergy, the pollen from weeds, trees, and grasses can cause the cat’s immune system to react with a defensive reaction whenever it comes into contact with the allergy triggers. This intolerance can manifest itself with various symptoms.
Possible Symptoms of a Pollen Allergy
The symptoms of a pollen allergy are often observed in spring and in outdoor cats. Like most allergies in cats, they usually manifest themselves primarily through constant itching. The velvet paw scratches or cleans itself conspicuously often so that even bald spots or inflammation of the fur can develop. Asthma can also occur as a reaction to bee pollen and is recognizable by the cat breathing heavily, appearing anxious, and sitting hunched over while breathing sounds are audible and there is a distinct rise and fall of the flanks. Shortness of breath can also occur and is a reason to see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
What Helps the Allergic Cat?
At first, it will probably take a little time for the vet to find the exact cause of the cat allergy, as the symptoms are very similar. If the allergy symptoms occur seasonally, the suspicion of a pollen allergy is quite obvious. The veterinarian decides which treatment options are suitable for your pet – for example, hyposensitization or the administration of medication such as cortisone. Of course, avoiding the allergy trigger is also helpful. Talk to your veterinarian whether he thinks it is advisable for your allergic cat not to go outside in the future – at least during the time when there is a particularly large amount of pollen flying.