What are some ways of how to treat allergies in cats?

Original Question: My 4-year-old long hair ginger cat has allergies. He scratches himself to the point of bleeding and hair loss. He usually targets his face (above his eyes) and behind his ears and he will sometimes click and bite repeatedly at his leg leaving a raw spot there too and on occasion goes for his tail. For months on end we keep a hard plastic cone on him to prevent him from reaching the worst affected area (behind his ears). Frankie is on Atopica (once a day) and we sometimes use a cream on his open wounds (Viaderm). Frankie tends to flare up twice a year and they last for multiple months on end. He is on hypoallergenic dry cat food (Royal Canin). Any suggestions or ideas? Thank you! - Laura

Mar 4, 2018

Hi Laura,

Frankie sure has some difficult and complicated allergy issues. These types of problems can be very frustrating and hard to manage in the short term, but once you find something that works, I recommend sticking with it. Rule number one is to always treat for fleas – just because you can’t see them doesn’t mean he hasn’t been bitten and then groomed the flea off. If Atopica and the hypoallergenic diet are not working, a referral to a dermatologist is certainly within reason. Other options to consider would be yet a different diet change, steroid usage, or allergy testing to begin hyposensitization injections. I would recommend speaking to your veterinarian about your concerns and possible treatment options.