Antihistamines for Cats - Dosage, Types and Side Effects

Antihistamines are medications that are associated with the treatment of allergies. Although many of us associate our own allergies to cats, the same process can happen to felines. There are allergens in a cat's environment to which many are sensitive. These include the following:

• Pollen
• Dust
• Spores
• Food
• Chemicals
• Textiles
• Insect bites

When a cat with a sensitivity to an allergen is exposed to one, they have a reaction which involves histamines. These are natural compounds in the cat's body which are used in various bodily functions, including in their immune response. When a cat with allergies suffers a reaction, the histamines respond in an exaggerated way. This is often the case of issues such as atopic dermatitis in cats. This can lead to various symptoms, including:

• Itchiness
• Redness
• Swelling
• Hair loss
• Vomiting
• Respiratory problems
• Excessive grooming
• Runny nose
• Wheezing

When the reaction is sufficiently severe, the cat can enter a state of anaphylactic shock. This is when the body starts to shut down due to their immune response, something which can be fatal in some cases. Additionally, chronic exposure to allergens without treatment can lead to long-term health issues, such as persistent skin infections or respiratory distress.

Antihistamines work by reducing the activity of the histamines. They can slow or stop an allergic reaction by combatting their action. It is important to note that antihistamines for cats do not cure the allergy. They interfere with the reaction and reduce the symptoms, but the cat will still be sensitive to the allergen in the future. Identifying and minimizing exposure to the allergen is crucial for effective management.

Despite evidence supporting the effectiveness of antihistamines for cats, they are not the only treatment for allergies. There are currently other therapies for allergies which can be equally effective or more so, especially when used in combination with other drugs. There is also often a trial-and-error approach to antihistamines. Not all types of antihistamines for cats will work. For instance, immunotherapy or allergy shots can be an option for severe cases, aiming to desensitize the immune system over time.

Antihistamines can be beneficial in that they reduce the reliance on other drugs. These include corticosteroids such as prednisone for cats which can have certain side effects. Regardless of the allergy, we need to speak to a qualified veterinarian who can make an assessment. They will determine both whether antihistamines are a suitable treatment for your cat, as well as what type of antihistamine to prescribe. We should never give human antihistamine medication to our cat. Furthermore, monitoring your cat's response and side effects is essential to ensure the treatment's success.

The antihistamines for cats dosage must be determined by your veterinarian. As we have already asserted, you will need to seek veterinary guidance if your cat has an allergic reaction. This should be the case even if the reaction is relatively mild. Once the veterinarian has determined the allergen causing the reaction, they will decide which type of antihistamine for cats to administer. They will also determine the dosage and frequency.

Many brands of antihistamines are marketed and are available in different formats. The dose will depend on the specific antihistamine that the vet prescribes. To give an example, chlorpheniramine is prescribed at a rate of 2-4 mg twice a day orally. In contrast, 1-2 mg of hydroxyzine is recommended for each kg of weight, although it is also administered twice a day. Moreover, the frequency of administration might be adjusted based on the severity of the allergic reaction and the specific needs of the cat. Regular follow-ups with the vet can help tailor the dosage as the cat's condition improves or changes.

There are different brands of antihistamines that will vary in their strength. More important than the brands is the active ingredient of the antihistamine drug. Active ingredients can be either first or second generation. The most commonly used antihistamines for cats are the following:

• Chlorphenamine: it is first generation and has the advantage that it produces few side effects. It is considered more effective in relieving itching if combined with omega 3 fatty acids. Trade names for this antihistamine include Piriton and Chlor-Tripolon. It can also be beneficial in reducing mild respiratory symptoms associated with allergies.
  
  
• Cyproheptadine: it is related to adverse effects such as sedation, vomiting or behavioral changes. Despite this, it might be chosen for its appetite-stimulating properties, which can be useful in cats with concurrent conditions that affect their eating habits.
  
  
• Hydroxyzine: it has teratogenic capacity, i.e. it can cause malformations in pregnant cats if administered during pregnancy. It is first generation. Additionally, it is often selected for its effectiveness in managing more severe allergic reactions.
  
  

Other antihistamines include diphenhydramine or cetirizine. It should be borne in mind that some of those commonly used in human medicine can be toxic to cats. Always check with a veterinarian before administering any medication.

Learn more about other drugs that are toxic to cats. Understanding the specific needs of your cat and the nature of their allergies is crucial in choosing the right medication.

As we have stated, we cannot give our cat antihistamines if the vet has not prescribed them. Not only could we cause adverse effects, but there are some situations in which the use of this type of drug is not indicated. For example:

• Pregnant cats: care must be taken if we want to treat a pregnant cat, since these drugs can cause fetal malformations. Learn about health in pregnant cats with our article on whether a cat can be spayed during pregnancy. Additionally, some antihistamines can impact milk production, affecting nursing kittens.
  
  
• Glaucoma or epilepsy: they are not recommended for cats that suffer from glaucoma or epilepsy. Certain antihistamines can exacerbate these conditions, leading to severe complications.
  
  
• Taking other medications: interactions with various drugs can also occur. This stresses the importance of communicating to the vet any treatment that we are administering to our cat before providing antihistamines. Certain combinations can lead to reduced efficacy or increased side effects.

If you don't know if your cat is pregnant or you don't know if the medication she is currently taking may be harmful if she takes antihistamines, consult your vet. Your veterinarian can provide guidance and alternative options if antihistamines are contraindicated.

If you are prescribed the appropriate antihistamine and it is administered in the correct dosage, there are usually no adverse reactions. If side effects of antihistamines for cats do occur, they may include the following:

• Sedation
• Lack of coordination
• Seizures
• Mydriasis (i.e. pupil dilation)
• Digestive problems

Digestive problems can include vomiting and diarrhea in the cat, but these usually only occur after prolonged exposure to the drug. Poisoning caused by the use of an inappropriate drug can trigger vomiting, seizures, and bleeding. These cases require the immediate intervention of the veterinarian since they are considered a veterinary emergency. Additionally, changes in behavior or increased thirst may be noted, warranting a reassessment of the treatment plan.

Some products based on plant extracts promise an antihistamine effect. They often act as supplements, but any supplement should not be given without a vet's prescription. Natural antihistamines are not suitable for all cats. There must be verified scientific evidence that supports their effectiveness. Moreover, potential interactions with existing medications should be considered to avoid adverse effects.

Conversely, it has been proven that the effect of antihistamines improves with the addition of fatty acids. When creating the diet for our cat, providing foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can be a good option to include in their food. Remember that any supplement that is offered must be supervised by the veterinarian. Other natural options, such as quercetin or bromelain, are sometimes explored but require careful consideration and professional guidance.

This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain.

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