DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My 7-year-old cat, “Sunbeam,” has a tough time in the spring when the pollen starts to fly. He sneezes frequently, his eyes water and he scratches hot spots on his skin. I’ve tried many things to reduce the allergens in the home: I vacuum every other day, run an air purifier near where he sleeps and I brush his coat daily. None of that seems to help. What else can I try? — Harry in Pittsburgh
DEAR HARRY: You’re doing your best to reduce airborne allergens, and that’s great. However, because it doesn’t seem to be helping, it’s time to enlist the help of your cat’s veterinarian.
The vet can suggest some other ways to reduce allergens in the home, and will consider that Sunbeam is reacting to more than one issue — not just pollen, but indoor dust or even the food he’s eating. They will also check for any secondary issues that may be contributing to Sunbeam’s discomfort, like an ear infection or yeast infection.
Short-term treatment with a prescription medication, like a steroid or an antihistamine, may be necessary during the worst part of the season. These will help reduce the intense itching and eye irritation, and should help clear up hot spots on his skin.
At home, try adding fish oil and probiotics to your cat’s food — these supplements can help with itchy, flaky skin conditions. (I give my cat a teaspoon of plain yogurt daily to balance his gut bacteria.) An occasional bath, twice a month or so, using a pet shampoo that contains oatmeal will soothe his skin and wash away any lingering allergens on his coat.
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© 2024 King Features Synd.,
By Sam Mazzota
King Syndicate
