Can Dogs Be Allergic to Cats? Symptoms & Advice

If your pup has ever sneezed while smelling the fresh spring grass or started scratching their ears after trying a new kibble brand, you know dogs can experience a wide range of allergies. It’s probably not surprising to learn dogs and humans often suffer from many of the same irritants—such as pollen, dust mites, and certain foods—but you might not expect your furry friend to have an allergic reaction to other furry friends. So, can dogs be allergic to cats?

As it turns out, dogs can be allergic to cats! Specifically, they can be allergic to the proteins found in cat dander, urine, and saliva. As the canine body responds to these proteins, it releases histamine—a chemical that causes allergy symptoms.

Why Can Dogs Be Allergic to Cats?

While many pups experience similar allergy symptoms, the reasons why they’re allergic can differ greatly. These factors may influence a dog’s cat allergies:

Genetics – There’s no conclusive evidence that any dog breeds are especially prone to cat allergies, but breeds that are susceptible to allergies in general may be more likely to have them—such as Pugs, Shih Tzu, Poodles, Bulldogs, Boxers, and Maltese dogs.

Health Conditions – Dogs with existing medical conditions may also be vulnerable to cat allergies. Furry friends who have atopy (a form of eczema) or food sensitivities often suffer from other allergens.

Age – While allergies can occur at any age, they generally worsen as dogs get older. Furry friends can also develop new allergies over time.

Cat Allergy Symptoms

The signs of a dog’s cat allergies are usually easy to spot. Take action if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Itching
• Red or inflamed skin
• Hair loss
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Runny nose

While humans with allergies often suffer respiratory symptoms in the eyes, nose, and ears, dogs more frequently experience itchy skin. Spots where the skin is more directly exposed to allergens—such as the paws and abdomen—tend to be the itchiest.

RELATED: Why Do Dogs Lick Their Paws? 6 Causes Explained

Managing Your Dog's Cat Allergies

If your furry family includes a dog and a cat, there’s a lot you can do to minimize or relieve your pooch’s symptoms! Try these tips and remedies to help them feel their best:

Keep your pets (and home!) clean – The simplest way to reduce your dog’s symptoms is to limit their exposure to cat dander. Bathe your dog to remove allergens from their skin, and give them a once-over with grooming wipes after they’ve spent time near the kitty. For added relief, consider using a medicated shampoo to help reduce itching. Occasionally bathing your cat will also help curb the spread of dander. Don’t forget to dust and vacuum your home frequently!

Stop your dog from scratching or chewing themselves – Excessive itching isn’t just a common symptom of cat allergies; it can also lead to skin infections, bald spots, or ear infections. Use a chewing deterrent spray to keep your dog from constantly scratching or chewing themselves.

Consider treatments and remedies – Since histamine causes allergy-related symptoms, over-the-counter antihistamines and similar medications can help relieve irritation. You can also use an anti-itch spray to relieve itching from allergies. If you’re seeking a long-term solution, try scheduling immunotherapy for your dog. This treatment gradually exposes your furry friend to cat allergens, helping their immune system build up resistance.

Schedule an allergy test – Did you know your veterinarian can administer a test to identify your dog’s specific allergies? One such exam is the radioallergosorbent test (also known as the RAST test), which a is a blood test that identifies allergens. There’s also intradermal allergy testing (IDAT), which involves injecting trace amounts of allergens under the skin to spot negative reactions.

Do All Cats Produce Allergens?

While every cat produces allergens, some generate more than others. Light-shedding cat breeds such as Bengals and Russian Blues are considered hypoallergenic, while heavy shedders like Persians and Ragdolls are more likely to cause allergic flare-ups. Hairless cats including the Sphynx and Donskoy are especially good choices for dogs, as they produce very little dander when properly groomed.

Can Cats Be Allergic to Dogs?

Yes, cats can be allergic to dogs and experience many of the same symptoms. Hypoallergenic dog breeds including Poodles, Chihuahuas, and Italian Greyhounds will help keep reactions to a minimum, so consider one of these dogs if you’re thinking about welcoming a new pet to the family. If your cat shows signs of dog allergies, you can implement the same treatments noted above to help them stay healthy.

Dogs and Cats Can Still Live in Harmony!

Pups with cat allergies don’t need to live a kitty-free life. Although dogs can be allergic to cats, grooming your pets frequently and cleaning up loose hair will help minimize their symptoms. To further support your dog’s overall health, consider giving them multi-vitamin supplements. These simple tasks can go a long way!

Cats aren’t the only animals that can lead to itching! Learn how to spot fleas on your dog.