Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
Being a pet parent to both a dog and a cat can be wonderful. But what if your dog seems uncomfortable every time they're near your feline friend? Itching, sneezing, and constant scratching could mean your dog is allergic to your cat.
For many dog owners, this situation can be confusing and frustrating. Allergies between pets are not something we always think about. However, dogs can be allergic to the proteins found in cat dander, saliva, and even urine. These reactions, which might seem unrelated, could actually be signs of a dog allergy.
Let’s dive deeper into what causes these allergies and how to recognize, diagnose, and manage them.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Cats?
Yes, dogs can be allergic to cats. Just like humans can have allergic reactions to cats, dogs can also develop sensitivities to cat dander. The protein Fel d 1, which is found in cat saliva and skin oils, is often what triggers allergies. Although the exact cause in dogs is still being studied, experts agree that dogs can be allergic to this protein.
Though this condition isn’t as common as environmental allergies (like pollen or dust), it can happen. Some studies suggest that up to 5% of allergy cases in dogs might be caused by cat dander.
Signs and Symptoms of Dog Allergies to Cats
Recognizing allergies in dogs can be tricky because symptoms of dog allergies to cats often look similar to other environmental allergies. If your dog is allergic to your cat, you’ll notice certain signs, especially after they interact with the cat or spend time in areas the cat frequents.
Common Symptoms
Itchy skin: Your dog may scratch constantly, especially around the face, ears, or paws.
Sneezing and runny nose: Dogs with cat allergies may sneeze or have nasal discharge.
Watery eyes: Your dog’s eyes may appear red and watery.
Coughing or wheezing: Some dogs may develop mild respiratory symptoms.
Hair loss or skin infections: Continuous scratching can lead to secondary issues like bald spots or skin infections.
If your dog shows these symptoms, especially after interacting with your cat, consider the possibility that your dog may have a cat allergy.
Diagnosing Dog Allergies
If you think your dog might be allergic to your cat, visit your vet for a diagnosis. Allergies in dogs can be hard to figure out because many things could be causing the symptoms. This could include pollen, dust, food, or your cat.
Your vet will start by asking about your dog’s symptoms and when they started. They may recommend allergy tests like skin or blood tests to find out if your dog is allergic to cat dander.
In some cases, vets might suggest separating the dog and cat for a while to see if the symptoms improve.
How to Reduce Pet Allergens in Your Home: A Guide for Multi-Pet Households
Managing a home with both dogs and cats can be challenging, especially when one of your pets is allergic to the other. If your dog is allergic to cat dander, it’s essential to create a living space that minimizes allergens while allowing both pets to live together comfortably. Here are some tips:
1. Vaccum frequently
Cat dander is the main allergen. Keeping your home clean can significantly reduce allergic reactions. Vacuum often, dust surfaces, and wash bedding where your cat may leave dander.
2. Create Allergen-Free Zones
Designate specific rooms in your home as “allergen-free” spaces, where your dog can rest without being exposed to cat dander. For example, keep your dog’s bed in a room where the cat doesn’t have access. This creates a safe space for your dog to relax without suffering from allergic reactions.
3. Reduce Soft Furnishings
Soft furnishings like rugs, carpets, and heavy drapes can trap dander, making it harder to keep allergens under control. Opt for easy-to-clean flooring and curtains, and avoid using too many throw pillows or blankets in areas where your pets spend time.
4. Improve Ventilation
Good ventilation can help reduce the buildup of allergens in your home. Make sure your home is well-ventilated by opening windows regularly. You can also install exhaust fans in rooms where pets spend a lot of time to help clear the air of dander and other allergens.
5. Bathe your dog regularly
Bathing your dog regularly with a medicated or hypoallergenic shampoo helps remove allergens from their skin. Make sure to consult your vet on how frequently to bathe your dog, as over-bathing can dry out their skin.
6. Use Hypoallergenic Products
There are plenty of hypoallergenic products designed to minimize allergens. You can try air purifiers, special shampoos, or sprays that help reduce dander on your pets.
Managing Cat Allergies in Dogs
Although allergies cannot be cured, you can manage them to help your dog live comfortably with your cat. Here are some treatment options:
1. Medications
There are allergy medications that can help reduce your dog's allergy symptoms.
At EverPal, we are expert in treating dog allergies. Schedule a same-day virtual visit with our Medical Director Dr. White. 100% guaranteed follow up.
2. Strengthen Your Dog’s Skin
Dogs with allergies often benefit from treatments that strengthen their skin barrier. Omega-3 supplements, for example, can reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
3. Immunotherapy
For severe cases, your vet might suggest immunotherapy. This treatment works by exposing your dog to small amounts of the allergen over time. It helps their immune system build up a tolerance to the allergen. While this process can take months, it’s effective for many dogs.
Can You Keep a Dog and Cat Together?
The short answer is yes. With the right strategies, you can help your dog manage their symptoms and still live peacefully with your cat. Regular cleaning, hypoallergenic products, and treatment plans from your vet can make a big difference.
Are You Seeing Your Dog Itching or Having Allergies?
We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your dog's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our veterinarian to understand your dog's unique needs, explain multiple treatment options, and provide thorough guidance on environmental adjustments and treament plan.
Find immediate allergy relief for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
Virtual vet visits are currently available for residents in California. We are more than veterinary telemedicine - diagnostic testing available for residents and pets living in San Francisco, Daly City, South San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, San Mateo and the San Francisco Bay Area. Medications, including compounding medications, are delivered to your home.
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