Cat Illnesses - Allergic Dermatitis

Allergic dermatitis is the common name for two related cat problems. The first is caused by particles that react with a cat that is allergic to those particles. The second is caused by an irritant that would have the same effect on every cat.

The symptoms of these cat illnesses are what would be expected - itching, redness, thin fur, and in some cases blisters or ulcers.

Cat problems caused by allergens are impossible to prevent, but can be successfully managed. The most common treatment is hypoallergenic shampoo. Sometimes a cat may require treatments more commonly associated with cat illnesses such as dietary supplements and medication e.g. fatty acids and anti-histamines.

If the cat's dermatitis is caused by an irritant, treatment is finding out what the irritant is, and keeping the cat away from it.