8/15/2023 0 Comments Fly strike dermatitis in cats![]() For mild itching, over-the-counter topical sprays that have hydrocortisone can be used for several days to help control itching. The goal of treatment is to alleviate the itching and treat for fleas on the cat as well as in the environment. Treatment of Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Cats Skin lesions (bumps or hair loss) along with itchy skin located at the base of the tail is sufficient evidence to make a presumptive diagnosis of flea allergy. Flea feces will look like flecks of pepper on the hair, coat, and skin, and they are often misinterpreted by pet parents as dirt. Or your cat may bite or lick at the area of the flea bite and remove the flea.Ī flea comb may be used to look for live fleas or evidence of fleas (flea feces). Fleas can jump on your cat, bite, and jump off. Live fleas may be seen, but the absence of live fleas doesn’t rule out this condition. No other tests are needed to confirm this diagnosis. How Veterinarians Diagnose Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Catsįlea allergy dermatitis is diagnosed during a physical exam by your veterinarian, with or without your cat having a history of fleas. One flea bite is enough to cause a reaction in an allergic cat. Once the saliva is transferred, a histamine-like compound, along with other inflammatory mediators in the skin, causes the noticeable symptoms of skin redness and itching. Fleas use a mouthpart called a proboscis to suck blood rather than biting. Causes of Flea Allergy Dermatitis in CatsĬats can be allergic to the saliva of the fleas, which is transferred during the flea bite. Any itching and hair loss in these locations is suggestive of flea allergy dermatitis. You may also notice hair loss on the head, neck, or back (it can also occur on the abdomen and inner thighs). Most pet parents notice their cat scratching frequently and excessively grooming. If your cat has flea allergy dermatitis, their skin will appear red (erythema), be mildly to severely itchy (pruritus), and may have crusts or small bumps (papules). ![]() Symptoms of Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Cats Flea allergy dermatitis differs from food and environmental allergies based on the pattern of skin lesions and the history of the pet. One flea bite can be enough to make your cat’s skin itchy for up to 2 weeks.Ĭats may also be allergic to environmental allergens (pollens, dust, mold, and dander) or have food allergies (specifically to the chicken and fish protein sources in most commercial diets). If the body’s immune system recognizes the substance as “foreign,” a reaction may occur. Flea allergy dermatitis commonly occurs on the head, neck, and back (also known as the “racing stripe” pattern on the skin).Īllergies are caused by a prior exposure to an allergen. ![]() Cats can be allergic to the flea’s saliva, which causes the release of a histamine-like compound, resulting in a very itchy skin condition. Flea allergy dermatitis is a common skin allergy in cats that can occur from a flea bite.
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