Stop the Itch!
A single fleabite, fungal disease or food allergy can cause constant scratching.
By
J. Veronika Kiklevich, DVM |
Posted: Tue Dec 7 00:00:00 PST 2004
Page 2 of 2
Environmental allergies can be diagnosed in two ways. The gold standard is skin testing, just as physicians do in people, and generally this must be performed by a veterinary dermatologist. Blood testing for allergens is easy, quick and effective. I use both methods, and only send patients to a dermatologist if this test does not yield a diagnosis.
If the allergy is seasonal, we'll often treat the cat with antihistamines. Steroids will also control allergies, but come with several unwanted side effects. Therefore, I generally recommend staying away from steroids. Sometimes a trial run of antihistamines is warranted. I would then recommend a withdrawal of the antihistamines if the itching and scratching are under control, then monitor the condition.
I wish you and that little Munchkin all the best.
Page 1 | 2
Give us your opinion on
Stop the Itch!