Treats for Cats with Sensitive Skin

Cat Treats for Sensitive Skin FAQs

Why does my cat have sensitive, itchy skin?

Your cat may be itching or have sensitive skin for a number of reasons and, in some cases, it is not an obvious cause.

1. External parasites - Fleas! Even if your cat is an indoor cat, there is still the possibility of picking up ground fleas and fleas from other pets. Many pets are allergic to the flea bite, which can also make them very itchy. Less common parasites like ticks, mites and lice can also cause itching in cats. Maintaining regular parasite prevention is a good way to prevent an infestation from building up in your home.
2. Environmental allergies (Atopy) - Cats inhale airborne allergens which may set off an allergic reaction, quite often resulting in itching. Atopy is complicated to diagnose in cats and avoiding these allergens is sometimes impossible. Improving the skin barrier with skin diets/treats enriched with omega 3 and 6 and medicated shampoo can be helpful adjunct therapy for cats with environmental allergies.
3. Food allergies - If your cat eats a protein they are allergic to, it will then cross the gut wall into the blood stream, the immune system mounts an irregular response that causes them to become sensitised to the protein, resulting in an allergic reaction. Most common food allergies in cats are beef, chicken, fish and dairy. Hydrolysed diets or a novel protein diet can be helpful in managing food allergies.

It is important if you notice any signs of itching, redness, scabs, hair-loss, that you consult with your veterinarian to obtain the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Author info: Dr Nicole du Plessis - Pet Circle In House Veterinarian