Cat allergic to fleas: how to treat? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑prescribed flea‑control product and, if needed, treat the allergic dermatitis with antihistamines or corticosteroids as directed. Maintain a flea‑free environment through regular cleaning, washing bedding, and monthly topical preventatives such as «flea control».
Cat allergic to fleas: how to treat? - in detail
Flea‑induced allergic dermatitis in felines requires a multi‑layered approach. Identification of the allergy is confirmed by clinical signs—intense pruritus, erythema, papules, crusts—often concentrated on the lower abdomen, tail base, and hind limbs, together with a positive intradermal test or serum IgE assay for flea saliva antigens.
Effective management begins with rapid elimination of the ectoparasite. Recommended measures include:
« topical ectoparasiticides containing fipronil, selamectin, or imidacloprid » applied according to label intervals;
« oral systemic agents such as nitenpyram, lufenuron, or spinosad » administered monthly;
« environmental control using insect growth regulators, regular vacuuming of carpets and upholstery, and washing of bedding at ≥ 60 °C ».
Adjunctive therapy addresses the inflammatory response. Options are:
• short‑course glucocorticoids for acute flare‑ups;
• antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine) to reduce pruritus;
• omega‑3 fatty acid supplementation to improve skin barrier function;
• allergen‑specific immunotherapy for long‑term tolerance, administered by a veterinary dermatologist.
Skin lesions may require topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors to accelerate healing. Regular re‑evaluation ensures that flea counts remain at zero and that secondary infections are promptly treated with appropriate antibiotics or antifungals.
Owner education focuses on maintaining uninterrupted flea prevention throughout the cat’s life, even in indoor environments, and on monitoring for recurrence of dermatologic signs. Consistent application of the outlined protocol typically results in rapid symptom resolution and prevents chronic dermatologic complications.