How does flea allergy manifest in cats? - briefly
Cats with flea allergy develop intense itching, especially around the neck, tail base, and abdomen, leading to redness, scabs, hair loss, and occasional skin infections; they may also exhibit excessive grooming, visible bite spots, and a sudden increase in scratching behavior.
How does flea allergy manifest in cats? - in detail
Flea‑induced hypersensitivity in felines appears as a distinct set of clinical signs driven by an immune reaction to flea saliva. The most common manifestation is intense itching, especially around the base of the tail, the lower back, and the hind legs. Scratching, biting, or licking these areas often leads to secondary skin damage.
Typical skin changes include:
- Red, inflamed patches that may be raised or flat.
- Small, crusted lesions or scabs, frequently forming a “miliary” pattern of tiny spots.
- Hair loss (alopecia) at the margins of irritated zones, sometimes progressing to larger bald patches.
- Thickened, roughened skin (lichenification) where chronic rubbing has occurred.
- Presence of flea feces (dark specks) or live fleas in the coat, although infestations can be minimal.
Behavioral signs accompany the dermatological signs: increased grooming, restlessness, and occasional reluctance to lie down due to discomfort. In severe cases, cats may develop secondary bacterial infections, evidenced by pus‑filled pustules, foul odor, or an exudate that moistens the fur.
Diagnostic clues involve locating flea debris on the fur, performing a skin scraping to rule out other parasites, and conducting an intradermal allergy test or serologic assay to confirm hypersensitivity. Treatment protocols focus on eliminating fleas, controlling inflammation with corticosteroids or antihistamines, and using topical or oral flea preventatives to break the cycle. Regular monitoring of skin condition and flea control efficacy is essential to prevent recurrence.