Wheals (Hives) in cats
Wheals, also known as hives or urticaria, are raised, reddened skin changes that can occur in cats. They are usually the result of an allergic reaction and can cause severe itching.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
Wheals are caused by the release of histamine and other chemical mediators, which lead to dilation of blood vessels and increased permeability of the vessel walls. This leads to fluid accumulation in the skin, which causes the characteristic raised areas.
In cats, wheals can be triggered by various allergic reactions. The most common causes include insect bites, especially from fleas or mosquitoes, as well as allergic reactions to food or certain medications. A contact allergy, for example to certain materials or plants, can also cause wheals.
Some cats may also react to environmental allergens such as pollen, house dust mites, or mold. In rare cases, systemic diseases, such as autoimmune diseases or certain infections, can also promote the development of wheals.
It is important to note that stress can also be a trigger for wheals, as it can affect the cat’s immune system and increase susceptibility to allergic reactions.
Typical accompanying symptoms
- Itching: The most common accompanying symptom of wheals. Cats may scratch or rub excessively to relieve the itching, which can lead to further skin irritation.
- Redness: The affected skin areas often appear reddened, which is a typical sign of an inflammatory reaction.
- Skin swellings: In addition to the wheals themselves, general swelling can also occur in the affected areas.
- Hair loss: Constant scratching and licking of the affected areas can lead to local hair loss.
- Restlessness: Cats with wheals may be restless due to the itching and irritation and change their normal behavior.
When to visit the vet?
A visit to the veterinarian is absolutely necessary if the wheals appear suddenly and in large numbers or if the cat additionally shows signs of shortness of breath, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms could indicate a serious allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock, which requires immediate medical treatment.
Even if the wheals persist for more than a few days or the cat injures itself by scratching and licking, a veterinarian should be consulted. Long-lasting skin problems can lead to infections and require professional treatment.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
It is important for the pet owner to observe the cat’s skin regularly, especially if it scratches frequently or licks a certain area. Wheals are usually visible as raised, red spots, often with a pale center.
The veterinarian will perform a thorough clinical examination to determine the cause of the wheals. This may include taking skin samples or blood tests to identify allergens or infections. Sometimes an elimination diet is recommended to identify possible food allergies.
If environmental allergens are suspected, an intradermal test or a serological test can be performed to determine specific allergens. A detailed history, including the cat’s living environment and diet, is also crucial for the diagnosis.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
If you notice wheals on your cat, it is important to keep the affected areas as clean and dry as possible to avoid infections. You can gently clean the skin with a soft cloth and lukewarm water to remove possible irritants.
Avoid bathing the cat or treating it with soaps unless specifically recommended by the veterinarian, as this could further irritate the skin. If the cause of the wheals is known, try to remove or avoid the trigger.
In consultation with the veterinarian, antihistamines or other anti-inflammatory drugs can also be administered to relieve the itching and reduce the wheals. However, it is important to never give medication without veterinary instructions, as some medications suitable for humans can be toxic to cats.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.