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Hives (Urticaria) in a cat
develops due to hypersensitive reaction to various allergens. Read more
about hives in cats here.
Hives in Cats
Normally, Hives or 'Urticaria' in
cats may be the result of an insect bite or some allergic reactions in
the body. A cat may be hypersensitive to vaccinations, antibiotics,
household cleaners or even certain food. Red and itchy welts might crop
up in different areas of the skin surface, as a reaction to these
various allergens. Often, the animal might undergo severe discomfort
with highly swollen face and eyes. The condition, if mild, can be
effectively treated at home. But acute cases of hives demands proper
medical counseling and care. Detailed below are the various symptoms and
remedies of hives in cats.
Symptoms
- Welts or bumps on the skin
- Severe scratching and irritation
- Skin rashes and inflammation
- Abnormal shedding
- Dry and flaky skin surface
- Smelly and matte coat
- Puffy face and eyes (in certain cases)
- Difficulty in breathing (in acute cases)
Remedies
- Bathe your pet with ice cold water or make ice poultices and rub
on the irritated areas. Let the water soak for about 10-15 min
everyday.
- You can also add two cups of brewed green or black tea to his
bath water. The tannins in the tea will provide relief from the
itching sensation. ]
- Put some oatmeal flakes in a sock and run water through it. Place
the wet sock on the sensitive areas to ease the discomfort.
- You may also administer some over-the-counter antihistamines to
reduce the swellings or inflammations in the body.
- Oral or intravenous corticosteroids can also be administered,
under medical supervision or with prior consultation with the
veterinarian.
- The vet may also give epinephrine to the animal, if the disease
is accompanied by breathing problems.
Though, hives is not a life
threatening disorder, it can be quite unnerving for your pet, to go
through ceaseless scratching and painful sores. So, it is always better
to consult a veterinarian and take action against the disease, as soon
as you notice such dermal abnormalities in the animal.
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