The best way to prevent and treat pet allergies is to limit your exposure to the animal that is causing them—in this case, your new kitty. However, this defeats the purpose of owning a pet, so allergy medication may be an option. Please keep reading to learn more about some of the best over-the-counter skin allergy medicine for cats and human allergy medicines for cats.
What is a Pet Allergy?
An allergic reaction to allergens (microscopic particles) found in an animal’s skin, saliva, or urine causes a pet allergy. Fur and pet dander (dead flakes shed from the skin’s surface) are the most common allergens (triggers) for pet allergies. This depends on your pet’s breed and hair length. Longer-haired animals typically trap more dander, making allergies less severe.
Best Allergy Medicine For Cats
Home remedies for cat allergies are not always effective, and cat owners may require a prescription medication from their veterinarian to relieve the itching. While there is no one best allergy medicine for cats (because each cat is unique), the right therapy combined with home remedies for cat allergies will provide relief for your cat. Always inform your veterinarian about any OTC or holistic remedies you are currently giving your cat, as they may interact with prescription medications. The following is the best allergy medicine for cats:
#1. Allegra Allergy 24-Hour Gel Caps (Fexofenadine)
Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine that relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchiness, and fatigue. The drug has a limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier when compared to sedating first-generation antihistamines. As a result, it is a relatively non-drowsy drug. A headache is the most common side effect among adult patients.
It is marketed under the brand name Allegra, but a generic version has been available since 2011.
This product comes in the form of a gel cap, making it simple to swallow. It’s a quick-acting formula that begins working within an hour of administration. Its effects last for up to 24 hours, providing you with an entire day of protection.
#2. Zyrtec 24-Hour Allergy Relief Tablets
Zyrtec, the number-one allergist-recommended brand among OTC oral antihistamines, is a well-known and well-liked brand of allergy medicine for cats. Their 24-hour allergy relief tablets offer long-lasting relief with few side effects.
Cetirizine HCl, a second-generation antihistamine that reduces sneezing, runny nose, itching, allergic conjunctivitis, and hives, is the main ingredient in the medication. As a newer product, it has a long duration and is non-drowsy. For all-day protection, take just one tablet in the morning.
#3. Basic Care Aller-Ease, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride Tablets
This antihistamine from Amazon’s Basic Care brand contains the same active ingredient—fexofenadine hydrochloride—as our top recommendation and is a cost-effective option. Each tablet is $0.21, which is less than half the cost of Allegra.
Each tablet contains 180 mg of fexofenadine HCl, which provides 24-hour relief from allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes, nose, and throat. This well-known antihistamine is non-drowsy and suitable for people aged 12 and up.
#4. Nasacort Allergy 24-Hour (Triamcinolone)
Nasal steroid sprays are the most effective allergy medicine for cat treatment on the market. Triamcinolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid, which means it binds to the body’s glucocorticoid receptors. Glucocorticoids are naturally occurring substances in the body that aid in the regulation of immune function and inflammation. You can increase the anti-inflammatory effect by using a synthetic version of these hormones.
Nasacort’s 24-hour spray relieves congestion, sneezing, and itchiness. It’s alcohol and fragrance-free, so it’s unlikely to irritate. It begins to work on the first day and has the greatest effect after a few days to a week of daily use.
#5. Basic Care Children’s All Day Allergy Cetirizine HCl Oral Solution
This medication contains cetirizine and is intended for children. Cetirizine hydrochloride (5 mg) is present in each 5 mL serving. The grape-flavored liquid solution is tasty and simple to use. It’s free of dyes and sugar. Instead of sugar, sorbitol and sucralose are used as sweeteners in the formula.
Allergy Medicine For Cats Over The Counter
The best over-the-counter allergy medicine for cats will be determined by your symptoms and the frequency with which you experience pet allergies. Nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, and decongestants are all possible symptom relievers.
Best allergy medicine for cats over the counter is available both alone and in combination with products. Before purchasing any product, it is critical to read the package label to determine which ingredients are present.
#1. Nasal corticosteroids
Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation, which can be caused by an allergic reaction. These medications work by mimicking the action of a hormone called cortisol, which your body naturally produces. There are numerous corticosteroids available, but corticosteroid nasal sprays can be used to treat allergy symptoms.
Budesonide (Rhinocort), fluticasone (Flonase), and triamcinolone are examples of over-the-counter corticosteroid nasal sprays (Nasacort). These are considered first-line medications for pet allergies. They can be used if you have nasal symptoms (allergic rhinitis), such as sneezing, itching, or a runny nose.
#2. Antihistamines
Histamine is a chemical that your body produces when it comes into contact with an allergen—a substance that it does not recognize. This frequently results in allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, teary eyes, and itching. Antihistamines are a class of medications that relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine.
An example of an older, first-generation antihistamine is diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Drowsiness is caused by first-generation antihistamines, which are commonly found in sleep medications.
Loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine are examples of second and third-generation antihistamines (Allegra). The primary distinction between these medications and first-generation antihistamines is that they are more recent and cause less drowsiness. They aid in the relief of mild allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, teary eyes, and itching.
#3. Decongestants
Your body may signal your blood vessels to dilate during an allergic reaction. This allows substances such as white blood cells to enter and fight against what it believes is harmful to your body. As a result, the blood vessels in your nose can swell, resulting in a stuffy nose.
Furthermore, decongestants such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) work by shrinking blood vessels, which can alleviate nasal congestion symptoms. Decongestants are available as nasal sprays, tablets, and capsules, as well as oral tablets and capsules.
Decongestants can help clear your sinuses and relieve congestion, but they should not be used for extended periods. Decongestant nasal sprays, such as oxymetazoline (Afrin), can make your congestion worse if used for more than three days.
Decongestants aren’t used to treat allergy symptoms and can have negative side effects like high blood pressure and a rapid heartbeat. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart problems, you should avoid taking these medications.
In some states, pseudoephedrine may be available without a prescription or behind a pharmacy counter. There are also federal restrictions on how much pseudoephedrine you can buy at once.
Human Allergy Medicine For Cats
The following are the best human allergy medications for cats:
#1. Chlorpheniramine Maleate Allergy Tablets for Pets Review
Chlorpheniramine is a first-generation H1 antihistamine that is relatively ineffective. It relieves nasal irritation and general itchiness caused by allergies. While it is not particularly effective in dogs, it is one of the most dependable antihistamines for cats.
It has a mild sedative effect when compared to other first-generation antihistamines. Nonetheless, if you give it to a cat, it will most likely become drowsy. Other side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
#2. Zesty Paws Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats Review
Cats suffering from allergies can greatly benefit from omega-3 fatty acid supplementation. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, which is important because an allergic reaction is ultimately an inflammatory response. They also promote healthy skin and coats, which is important because allergic cats frequently develop skin problems.
It’s critical to always choose omega-3s derived from animals, such as fish and krill. Plant-based omega-3s are not as well absorbed by your cat’s body.
#3. ResQ Organics Pet Skin Treatment
Because skin itching and irritation are the most common symptoms of allergies in cats, it’s a good idea to choose products that can soothe and heal your cat’s skin. This cream contains several ingredients that can accomplish this.
It contains anti-inflammatory ingredients such as manuka honey, coconut oil, shea butter, blue-green algae, hemp seed oil, and others.
Skin Allergy Medicine for Cats
The following is a list of the best skin allergy medicine for cats:
#1. BestLife4Pets Cat Allergy Relief
The BestLife4Pets Cat Allergy Relief is a skin allergy medicine for cats that is intended to boost the immune system. It is ideal for acne, dandruff, dry skin, swelling, shedding, and hair loss, all of which can be symptoms of a more serious problem. This medication can be used all year and can even help with dermatitis symptoms.
Because the ingredients are all-natural and contain no artificial ingredients or gluten, this medication has no side effects.
#2. Vetnique Labs Cat Allergy Relief – Most Hydrating
If your cat has difficulty swallowing pills or chews, you should consider the Vetnique Labs Cat Allergy Relief Spray. It is an anti-itch spray that can alleviate hot spots and skin irritation caused by insect bites or allergies. The spray begins working immediately upon contact and can be applied to any part of the body, including the face and ears. Just avoid making direct contact with the eyes. The spray contains hydrocortisone and pramoxine to numb the area, and it is fragrance-free. It is also safe for daily use. Other ingredients include oatmeal, which acts as a moisturizer and keeps the skin hydrated throughout the year.
#3. Allerpet Cat Allergy Relief – Veterinarian Recommended
Finally, the Allerpet Cat Allergy Relief solution is a dander remover that includes an applicator mitt. This will not only help your cat’s allergic symptoms, but it will also help people who are allergic to cats. The formula is non-toxic and free of artificial fragrances, which can be toxic to cats. The ingredients are vitamin-rich and will keep your skin hydrated and moisturized.
Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, green tea, and rosemary can help relieve itching. This product will never expire because it contains no preservatives or harsh chemicals.
What can I give my cat for allergies?
How Cat Allergies Are Treated:
- Medicated shampoo or ear flushes.
- Topical anti-inflammatory medications.
- Antibiotics are taken orally
- Prescription injectable medication
- Corticosteroid treatment (especially for asthmatic cats)
- For severe cases, allergen-specific immunotherapy (also known as allergy shots).
- Dietary supplements on prescription.
What is the best antihistamine for cats?
Diphenhydramine, marketed under the brand name Benadryl, is the most commonly used antihistamine for cats. Most cats are safe when given the recommended dosage of 1 mg of diphenhydramine per pound of body weight, once daily by mouth.
Can you give cats human allergy medicine?
Cats with mild, seasonal allergic reactions respond well to over-the-counter human allergy medicine, which is available at most drug stores.
How can I treat cat allergies at home?
NATURAL Cat Allergy Remedies:
- Use an allergen neutralizer indoors.
- Neutered your cat
- Bathe your cat.
- Change the litter box regularly.
- Moisten your pet’s fur before grooming it daily.
- Use a HEPA vacuum at least once a week and a HEPA air purifier daily.
Can I give my cat Benadryl for allergies?
The big question is whether Benadryl is also safe for cats. Yes, you can give Benadryl to your cat. It is an antihistamine that is suitable for cats and dogs. Be aware that Benadryl is merely the drug’s brand name.
Does Benadryl work for cat allergies?
Benadryl is an excellent allergy medication for dogs with mild-to-moderate allergies. Benadryl works well for seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Claritin or Zyrtec better for cat allergies?
You may be wondering whether Claritin or Zyrtec is the best pet allergy medicine—however, which antihistamine works best for you is determined by the severity of your symptoms. A person with a mild allergy to cats or dogs, for example, may benefit from Claritin. Someone with more severe allergies may benefit from Zyrtec.
Is Zyrtec good for cat allergies?
Allergy relief for pets
When you can’t live without your pet, a medicine for dog and cat allergies can help control your pet’s allergy symptoms. ZYRTEC® begins working within an hour and continues to work throughout the day, allowing you to reduce your cat and dog allergy symptoms.
Can cats take Zyrtec everyday?
The dermatologists on VIN (the Veterinary Information Network) appear to agree: Zyrtec is good, safe stuff for cats. almost certainly more effective than the alternatives. And easier because we now know that once-a-day dosing is perfectly adequate for cats.
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