Spring brings blooming flowers, budding trees, and unfortunately, a surge in allergens that can affect not just humans, but our feline friends as well.

While we might reach for tissues and antihistamines, cats can’t tell us when they’re feeling miserable from allergies. Here’s an in-depth look at feline spring allergies to help you recognize and address your cats’ seasonal discomfort.

Fun Fact: Cats can be allergic to humans too!
Human dander, sweat, and even cosmetic products can trigger allergic reactions in some cats. So while you might be sneezing because of your cat, your cat might occasionally be itchy because of you!

Signs Your Cat May Have Spring Allergies

Unlike humans who typically sneeze and have watery eyes, cats often show allergies through skin reactions:

• Excessive grooming – Particularly around the face, paws, and belly
• Scratching more than usual- May lead to hair loss or red, irritated skin
• Ear problems – Frequent ear scratching, head shaking, or dirty ears
• Respiratory symptoms- Coughing, wheezing, or sneezing (less common than skin issues)
• Eye irritation – Watery, red, or puffy eyes
• Swollen paws – Often from walking on allergens then licking their paws
• Lethargy – Decreased activity or playfulness due to discomfort

When Cats Sneeze: Allergies or Something Else?

While skin issues are the most common allergy symptoms in cats, some felines do experience respiratory symptoms including sneezing. Here’s what you need to know about cat sneezing:

Occasional sneezing is normal – Just like humans, cats sometimes sneeze to clear their nasal passages
Pattern matters – Allergic sneezing often occurs in episodes or clusters, especially after exposure to triggers
Accompanying symptoms – Allergy-related sneezing is often accompanied by watery eyes, nasal discharge, or pawing at the face
Seasonal timing – If sneezing increases during spring but improves in other seasons, allergies are more likely

Differentiating Allergy Sneezing from Other Causes:

• Allergic sneezing-typically produces clear discharge and may be accompanied by itchiness
• Upper respiratory infections often cause colored discharge, fever, and lethargy
• Foreign objects in the nasal passage typically cause sudden, violent sneezing, often affecting only one nostril

Fun Fact: A cat’s typical grooming behavior already helps combat allergens!
Cats typically spend 30-50% of their waking hours grooming themselves, which naturally helps remove some allergens from their fur. This instinctive behavior is one reason why some cats may intensify grooming when experiencing allergies.

Fun Fact: Cat sneezes can be powerful!
A cat’s sneeze can propel mucus droplets at speeds of up to 30 mph (48 km/h), helping effectively clear irritants from their nasal passages.

Common Spring Allergens for Cats

• Pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers
• Mold spores (especially after spring rains)
• Dust mites (stirred up during spring cleaning)
• Flea saliva (fleas become more active in warmer weather)

Feline Fact:
It’s true that cats can develop allergies to all the above allergens. However, it’s worth noting that the most common allergic reaction in cats is actually to flea saliva, which affects up to 40% of cats with allergies. Pollen allergies are the second most common environmental allergen for cats.

Fun Fact: Different breeds may have different susceptibility!
Some studies suggest that Siamese, Abyssinian, and other Oriental breeds may be more prone to allergies than other cat breeds.

How to Help Your Allergic Cat

• Regular grooming – Wipe down your cat with a damp cloth after they’ve been near open windows to remove pollen
• Air purifiers- HEPA filters can reduce airborne allergens
• Vacuum frequently – Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust and pollen
• Wash bedding weekly – Both yours and your cat’s
• Keep windows closed** during high pollen days
• Monitor pollen counts – Various weather apps track this information
• Consult your veterinarian** – They may recommend antihistamines, supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, or in severe cases, prescription medications

Feline Fact:
While many over-the-counter human antihistamines can be used for cats, the dosage and safety profile vary significantly. Never give your cat human medication without veterinary guidance. Some human antihistamines contain additional ingredients like decongestants that can be dangerous for cats.

Fun Fact: Cats with allergies may benefit from “toe tufts” trims!
The fur between cat’s toes (called toe tufts) can collect pollen and other allergens. Carefully trimming these tufts can reduce the amount of allergens your cat tracks inside and then ingests during grooming.

When to See the Vet

• While mild allergies can often be managed at home, it’s time to visit the vet when you notice:
• Skin infections or hot spots developing
• Ear infections
• Respiratory distress
• Significant behavioral changes
• Symptoms that don’t improve with home care
• Frequent or violent sneezing – Especially with colored discharge
• Sneezing with breathing difficulty – This requires immediate veterinary attention.

Fun Fact: Cats can develop allergies at any age!
Just like humans, cats can suddenly develop allergies even if they’ve never had them before. A cat that has been fine for years can start showing allergy symptoms as they age, often between 3-6 years old.

Remember, what looks like allergies could sometimes be signs of other health issues, so a proper diagnosis is important for effective treatment.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

And check out How To Prepare Cats For Poor Air Quality/Allergy Season