How Can I Soothe My Cats Itchy Skin
If your cat is scratching more than usual, it could be due to an itchy skin condition. It can be difficult to determine the cause of itching in cats because there are so many possible reasons for it. The most common causes include fleas, dry skin and dandruff, food allergies or intolerances (e.g., wheat), environmental allergies or toxins (e.g., pollen), bacterial infections or yeast infections. In this article we’ll discuss some ways you can help relieve your cat’s discomfort and ease its suffering from itchy skin problems such as fleas and allergies—one of the most common causes for a cat’s excessive scratching behavior:
Rule out fleas
One of the first things to do is rule out fleas. Fleas are tiny insects that live on the skin of your cat and can cause itchy skin, hair loss, and even skin infections. If you suspect your cat has fleas, use a flea comb or sticky tape to find out if there are any signs of an infestation. The following signs indicate that your cat may have fleas:
- They’re scratching themselves more than usual
- You see small black dots in their fur (these are adult fleas)
- Their bedding has dark spots from dried blood
Use a humidifier or air filter
If a humidifier is not an option, you can also use air filters to help keep the air moist. Air filters are great for removing pet hair from your home, as well as dust and pollen from the air. They also help prevent airborne particles from entering the house through the HVAC system or windows. Air filtration is especially important if you have pets that shed a lot of fur or if you live in an area with high levels of pollution or dust storms.
Air filtration units can be used by people who suffer from dry skin, coughing, congestion and asthma symptoms due to allergies. These machines also have dual-purpose benefits because they provide fresh air while filtering out contaminants such as smoke particles that may trigger allergic reactions in some people.
Avoid harsh soaps and cleaning chemicals
Avoid harsh soaps and cleaning chemicals. Many of the products you use to clean your home can irritate your cat’s skin, including laundry detergents, fabric softeners, dryer sheets, and dryer balls. These items can cause inflammation and itching in cats with sensitive skin. If you must use these products around your cat, try using them in a well-ventilated area or wearing gloves while handling them.
Sources:https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/evr_ct_skin_irritation
Add omega-3 fatty acids to your cat’s diet
Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your cat’s diet is one of the best ways to help soothe his itchy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, which means they can help reduce the itching and scratching that comes with skin conditions like eczema. They also help improve skin and coat health by improving blood circulation, strengthening hair follicles, providing a barrier against allergens, and regulating oil production in the skin.
Omega-3s may even have antihistamine properties that could suppress allergic reactions. If you’re worried about allergies causing your cat’s itchy skin condition, adding more omega-3s might just be what he needs!
Try an antihistamine
You can treat an allergic reaction by giving your cat antihistamines. Histamine is a natural chemical your body produces to fight off foreign invaders, such as pollen or dust mites. Histamine also causes redness and itching in the skin.
If your cat has a histamine reaction, you will see symptoms like:
- Excessive scratching and licking of the skin
- Redness of the skin around their mouth
- Stomach pain due to vomiting or diarrhea
You don’t have to feel helpless when your cat is suffering from itchy skin.
Don’t feel helpless. You can help your cat feel better.
You can’t cure their allergies, but you can help them feel more comfortable and relaxed so they’re not scratching away the day (which makes them itch even more).
So, are you ready to start helping your cat? We think the most important thing for you to remember is that there’s no magic cure for feline skin allergies. The best thing you can do is try out some of these tips and see what works best. You may have to try a few different approaches before finding something that helps soothe your cat’s itchy skin—but don’t worry if it takes some time! Just keep trying until you find something that makes both of you happy again.
