1. Kedilerde Alerji Nedir?

Alerji, bağışıklık sisteminin normalde zararsız bir maddeye karşı aşırı tepki vermesidir. Bu maddelere alerjen denir. Kediniz bir alerjene maruz kaldığında vücudu bunu tehdit olarak algılar ve kaşıntı, kızarıklık, solunum sorunları gibi semptomlarla tepki verir.

1. What Is an Allergy in Cats?
An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is normally harmless. These substances are called allergens. When your cat is exposed to an allergen, its body perceives it as a threat and reacts with symptoms such as itching, redness, or respiratory problems.

2. Types of Allergies in Cats
1. Food Allergy

• Most common triggers: Chicken, beef, dairy products, fish, grains

• Symptoms:

  • Itching (especially around the face, ears, and neck)

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Ear infections

  • Skin rashes or hair loss

Note: Symptoms usually do not appear suddenly but develop after long-term exposure.

2. Flea Allergy (Flea Allergy Dermatitis)

• The most common type of allergy, caused by a reaction to flea bites.

• Symptoms:

  • Intense itching at the base of the tail

  • Wounds and hair loss

  • Redness of the skin

Even a single flea bite can cause a severe reaction.

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3. Respiratory Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)

• Develop in response to environmental factors such as pollen, dust, or mold.

• Symptoms:

  • Watery eyes

  • Runny nose, sneezing

  • Redness and itching of the skin

  • Asthma-like breathing problems

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4. Contact Allergies

• Occur due to contact with items such as plastic food bowls, detergents, cleaning products, or perfumes.

• Symptoms:

  • Redness and irritation of the skin

  • Localized hair loss

  • Increased scratching or licking

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3. What Are the Symptoms of Allergies?

• Itching and constant licking

• Redness, scabs, or rashes on the skin

• Hair loss and dull coat

• Redness and bad odor in the ears

• Breathing difficulties, sneezing, coughing

• Eye discharge or watering

• Loss of appetite or digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea)

Remember: These symptoms can be confused with other diseases; a veterinary examination is essential for accurate diagnosis.

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4. How Are Allergies Diagnosed?
For diagnosis, a veterinarian may perform the following:

• Physical examination and symptom monitoring

• Food elimination diet (6–8 weeks)

• Blood and skin tests (especially for environmental allergies)

• Parasite control

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5. Treatment Methods for Allergies in Cats

1. Avoiding Allergens

• In food allergies, trigger foods are removed from the diet.

• In environmental allergies, the living area is adjusted (dust-free environment, HEPA filters, etc.).

2. Medication

• Antihistamines

• Cortisone-based medications (short-term use)

• Anti-itch lotions or sprays

• Omega-3 supplements

3. Veterinary Diets

• Special diets with hydrolyzed protein formulas designed for allergic cats

4. Flea and Parasite Control

• Regular flea treatments such as topical drops or grooming can help manage flea allergies.

 

6. Precautions at Home

• Use ceramic or stainless steel food bowls instead of plastic

• Wash your cat’s bedding and blankets regularly

• Keep the air in the house clean (avoid dust, mold, cigarette smoke)

• Be cautious when introducing new products (cleaning agents, sprays, etc.)

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Conclusion
Allergies can seriously affect your cat’s quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the condition can be managed. If your cat shows signs such as itching, hair loss, or breathing problems, take it seriously and always seek veterinary support.

Remember: An allergy is not a disease but a condition that needs to be managed.