Posted by:
Martisimo
at Tue Jun 24 09:12:50 2003 [ Report Abuse ] [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by Martisimo ]
I don't remember the details of your previous post, but here are my thoughts:
Number one, is this cat and EVERY animal in the household on Frontline Topspot every month? He needs to be from now on, because if he's allergic to one thing, he's probably allergic to all kinds of other things too, fleas and pests being a common trigger. Flea allergies can cause just this sort of thing, even if you never see them. One flea, sneezing on him two months ago or something , could still have him going today if he's allergic.
Number two, I'm not a big fan of horomone treatment until most other avenues have been tried. Naturally if he's suffering and it provides much needed relief then I'm for it...but would still be looking for the cause.
Number three -- the other avenues I would try is an allergy diet to make sure it isn't a food allergy. Your vet should be able to tell you more about this, or I could if you want. Your kitty must eat NOTHING but his new diet for this to be an effective trial. He might need to try a few different diets, 3 months at a time for each, before finding one that works. These diets will be prescription most likely, obtained through your vet.
Number four -- allergy testing with a specialized dermatologist is what I would do if the other things don't work (including the behavioral tips others mentioned). I would do that before trying horomone therapy -- horomone therapy for this sort of thing reminds me of treating a problem with steroids -- it only masks the condition, but the cause is still there waiting. Allergies in cats (and dogs) manifest themselves most often as skin problems. I really think your kitty is likely suffering from allergies and the grooming has also become habitual...like a kid who won't stop scratching the bug bite or the poison ivy, it's a cycle.
Good luck!
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