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can i give my cat an antihistamine

by Precious Reinger Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Many dogs are given Benadryl to help them fend off allergic reactions. But is this drug safe for cats too? “It is safe,” says John Faught, a DVM and medical director of the Firehouse Animal Health Center in Austin, Texas. “Benadryl is just an antihistamine, and it's relatively safe for both dogs and cats.”Mar 24, 2016

Can you give a cat acetaminophen?

Many drugs that are made for people are not OK to give your cat, but acetaminophen is exceptionally harmful. Even a relatively small dose of it could severely damage their internal system, and potentially be fatal. If your cat is in real pain or is running a fever that won’t break, it’s best to call the vet to see if you need to bring them in.

Can you give loratadine to a cat?

Loratadine, commonly known by the brand name Claritin, is an oral antihistamine medication. Although it was designed for people with allergies, with a veterinarian's guidance it can also be given to cats. Sorry, the video player failed to load.

Can you give Gravol to cats?

Gravol is a medication designed to help children and adults with motion sickness, and it has been effective for use with cats and dogs, too. It is not considered a veterinary medicine, though; let your vet explain whether it's suitable for your cat and how much to give.

Can you give claritan to a cat?

The discretion of a licensed veterinarian should be considered before proceeding with long-term use. Claritin is generally safe, but side effects have been reported and include: dry eye, dry mouth, vomiting, racing heart, excitation, lethargy, and sedation. Cats with known kidney or liver dysfunction, or dry eye should not use Claritin.

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What antihistamines are safe for cats?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Claritin (loratadine) are commonly used allergy medicine for cats and dogs.

Can cats have over-the-counter antihistamines?

Allergy Medicines Can Affect Your Ability to Drive But these medicines may interfere with driving and operating heavy machinery (including driving a car). Antihistamines can slow your reaction time, make it hard to focus or think clearly, and may cause mild confusion even if you don't feel drowsy.

Can you give Benadryl to a cat?

Benadryl Dosage for Cats Typically, cats take 1 mg of Benadryl for each pound of body weight two to three times a day. This means a 12.5-pound cat will take 12.5mg (or half of a 25 mg Benadryl tablet) up to three times a day, depending on your veterinarian's recommendation.

What can I give my cat to stop itching?

Shampoos that are made especially for cats generally moisturize the skin, which reduces itchiness. Cat shampoos that contain colloidal oatmeal or phytosphingosine are generally the most useful in reducing your cat's itchiness.

What can you give a cat for allergies?

Antihistamines. Cats with mild, seasonal allergic reactions respond well to human over-the-counter allergy medicine that you can purchase at most drug stores. The most common antihistamine for cats is diphenhydramine, brand name Benadryl.

Why is my cat foaming at the mouth after taking Benadryl?

This doesn't mean the medicine is harming him. Cats may foam at the mouth just because they don't like the taste of something. If you place the medication on the back third of his tongue, he is less likely to taste it and won't foam at the mouth.

What can I give my cat for sneezing?

There are a few other options to treat a sneezing cat, including:Humidifiers.Air purifiers.Steroids.Antihistamines.NSAIDs.Decongestants.Surgery (in serious cases)Anti-nausea medication.

Will Benadryl make a cat sleepy?

Precautions to Take When Giving Benadryl to Cats Just like in people, Benadryl can cause a wide range of symptoms. Your cat may act drowsy. The drug, sometimes, may also cause a cat to get amped up or hyper. Overdoses can lead to seizures, coma, difficulties breathing, and even death.

What does Benadryl do for cats?

Diphenhydramine (brand name: Benadryl®, Vetadryl®, Banophen®, Genahist®, Diphenhist®, Unisom®, Sominex ®) is an antihistamine used in cats, dogs, ferrets and other small mammals, birds, horses, and cattle to treat allergic reactions, motion sickness, and vomiting.

Is children's Benadryl safe for cats?

Benadryl is generally considered to be safe for cats and is sometimes used to treat allergies and allergic reactions in cats.

How long does Benadryl last in cats?

between 8 and 12 hoursBenadryl for Cats Usage Guidelines It kicks in within 30 minutes of administration and lasts for between 8 and 12 hours.

Can you crush Benadryl for cats?

How Can I Administer Benadryl To My Cat? You need to give Benadryl to your cat orally. You can do it one of three ways; a solid pill, a crushed-up pill mixed with a treat or food, or liquid form.

How to Give benadryl to A Cat

The easiest way to dose a cat is to syringe liquid Benadryl, says Faught. But many cats will simply refuse to take it if they don’t like the odor o...

What Is benadryl Used For in Cats?

Benadryl is most commonly used for itchy or allergic skin reactions, vaccine reactions or bug bites. Occasionally, the drug can work as a mild seda...

Precautions to Take When Giving benadryl to Cats

Just like in people, Benadryl can cause a wide range of symptoms. Your cat may act drowsy. The drug, sometimes, may also cause a cat to get amped u...

What are antihistamines for cats used for?

As the Mayo Clinic indicates, antihistamines are part of the normal drug treatment for pet allergies that humans suffer. These medications help to alleviate the symptoms that trigger allergies. Among them, we find sneezing, watery eyes, nasal congestion, cough, facial pressure, and mucous discharge.

Why do antihistamines help cats?

Experts believe that one of the reasons that first-generation antihistamines are able to reduce scratching could be due to their sedative action. In the specific case of cats, this same study indicates that Chlorpheniramine is effective in 80% of cases.

What is the best antihistamine for allergic dermatitis?

Hydroxyzine. This is a first-generation antihistamine that’s usually prescribed to manage allergic dermatitis and other types of conditions that require antihistamine action. In most cases, this drug solves the problem without the need to combine it with other drugs.

What is the best way to diagnose allergies?

For example, when people have allergy symptoms, the best step is to perform tests that allow vets to establish the exact origin of the allergy. They will carry out skin evaluations, which consist of extracting small samples of purified allergen extracts to identify how the skin reacts.

What is the most common antihistamine?

Chlorpheniramine. This is one of the most common antihistamines. It’s one of the first generation types, and stands out for the few side effects it causes. It’s used to treat allergic pruritus and other types of allergic manifestations.

Why do veterinarians do blood tests on cats?

In the case of cats, the veterinarian will also need to map out a diagnostic pathway to include the tests necessary to establish treatment, which may or may not require antihistamines.

What is the best medicine for cats that itch?

Cyproheptadine. This medication is used to treat the itching and inflammation associated with allergies, as well as poisoning, asthma, and serotonin syndrome. It’s also useful to stimulate the appetite in sick and stressed cats.

How long does a cat need steroids?

Steroids are an effective drug to control pruritis and relieve symptoms. Injectablesteroids will be used initially; these can last between 2-6 months. After that, your cat maybe given oral steroids. Long-term use of steroids carry side effects, so your cat will eitherbe weaned off if possible or kept on the lowest dose possible. Use a reliable flea controlprogramme too.

What is the most common type of allergy in cats?

Insect – The most common type of allergies in cats are insect bites or stings,predominantly fleas. However, any biting or stinging insect has the potential tocause allergic reactions in cats.

Can cats have allergies?

This can vary depending on the underlying cause, but it is common for allergies in cats toaffect the skin. Depending on the cause, symptoms may be seasonal or non-seasonal.Common symptoms may include:

What to do if my cat is allergic to Benadryl?

If your cat is having a severe allergic reaction—with problems such as trouble breathing—it’s best to contact your vet to discuss the issue instead of just giving Benadryl to see if the symptom disappears.

How to give Benadryl to cats?

The easiest way to dose a cat is to syringe liquid Benadryl, says Faught. But many cats will simply refuse to take it if they don’t like the odor or taste. If your cat won’t take it, you can try going through a compounding pharmacy where the staff can flavor the liquid with chicken, fish or another cat-approved taste, which may increase the chance of your feline taking it. Pills also can be flavored, if you’d prefer to give the medication that way instead. You also could try to mix it up with their food to see if they’ll consume it with the meal.

What is Benadryl Used for in Cats?

Benadryl is most commonly used for itchy or allergic skin reactions, vaccine reactions or bug bites. Occasionally, the drug can work as a mild sedative that you can use during long car trips. Benadryl can be used as an anti-nausea or motion sickness medication, but Faught cautions that it’s best to use a different medication if that’s the symptom you’re trying to treat.

Can you mix Benadryl with food?

Pills also can be flavored, if you’d prefer to give the medication that way instead. You also could try to mix it up with their food to see if they’ll consume it with the meal. Faught says his office doses Benadryl at about one milligram per pound.

Can Benadryl cause a cat to be drowsy?

Just like in people, Benadryl can cause a wide range of symptoms. Your cat may act drowsy. The drug, sometimes, may also cause a cat to get amped up or hyper. Overdoses can lead to seizures, coma, difficulties breathing, and even death.

Can PetMD answer pet health questions?

Note: PetMD isn’t able to respond to pet health questions or to offer veterinary advice.

Can you pop Benadryl on a cat?

When you have an allergic reaction, it’s easy to just pop a Benadryl to ease your symptoms. Many dogs are given Benadryl to help them fend off allergic reactions. But is this drug safe for cats too?

What antihistamines are safe for cats?

Types of new generation antihistamines for cat allergies: Loratadine (Claritin) Cetirizine (Zyrtec) Levocetirizine (Xyzal) Fexofenadine (Aller-ease, Allegra) As long as you choose a non-drowsy product that doesn’t contain acetaminophen, all of these antihistamines are safe for both occasional and frequent use.

How Do Antihistamines For Cat Allergies Work?

All cats secrete potentially-aller genic proteins in their saliva, urine, and skin. At roughly 1/10th the size of a dust allergen, these microscopic particles are invisible and tenacious. They become airborne and hide in the environment for up to 6 months after a cat has passed through.

What is the best eye drops for cat allergies?

These drops are 0.35% ketotifen fumarate, an antihistamine that helps to relieve itchiness for 12 hours. Unlike many antihistamine eye drops, Zaditor doesn’t contain a vasoconstrictor and is safe for kids and adults ages 3 years and older.

How to get rid of cat allergies?

Antihistamines are the best way to get rapid relief, but controlling your cat allergies is best achieved with a mix of treatments.

Which antihistamine is the least sedating?

One of the more expensive antihistamines on the market. If feeling sharp is your top priority, fexofenadine is the antihistamine for you. Researchers have noted that this drug is consistently the least sedating of the new-generation antihistamines.

How long does it take for a cat to get relief from a sneeze?

The fast-acting formula will start to provide relief within an hour after you take the gel cap. It continues to work for 24 hours after dosage, relieving sneezing, itchiness, runny nose, and fatigue associated with cat allergies.

How to get rid of cat dander?

Regularly bathing your cat—or asking someone else to take on the chore— can also help to reduce the amount of allergenic dander he distributes. Products such as Allerpet/c can be applied to your cat’s fur to help reduce the reactivity of your cat’s dander.

What to do if your cat is swollen?

If your cat has any swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or collapse, it is strongly recommended that your pet be taken to an emergency veterinary facility for immediate medical care for a potentially fatal allergic reaction.

How much is 4 mg of morphine for cats?

A 4 mg dose for a cat = 1.6 mL. Invest in a 1 mL or 3 mL syringe depending upon the dose needed for your cat. You can probably find oral syringes at most pharmacies or your pharmacist can direct you.

Can dogs take Benadryl?

When an allergic reaction strikes a person, it is quite easy to take a Benadryl tablet to help ease the symptoms. Similarly, many dogs are also given Benadryl to help prevent or treat allergic reactions. If people and dogs and take Benadryl safely, can your cat take it too?

Is Benadryl safe for cats?

The answer is yes; Benadryl is also quite safe for use in cats. Benadryl is an antihistamine, which prevents histamines (inflammatory substances) from attaching to the cells that cause the allergic reaction typically. Benadryl is the brand name for the active ingredient diphenhydramine, which can also be found as a generic over the counter.

Can you use Benadryl with other medications?

Here are a few guidelines: Only use plain Benadryl (diphenydramine)! Avoid any formulations that also contain other medication. Benadryl is available in 12.5 milligram (mg) and 25 mg tablets or capsules, as well as 12.5 mg per 5 milliliter (mL) liquid suspension.

Can Benadryl cause a cat to nap?

It typically causes mild sedation so don’t be surprised if Fluffy wants to take a long nap after a dose of Benadryl! If using Benadryl to treat an allergic reaction and your cat does not seem to be improving or is worsening after one dose, it is advisable to seek veterinary attention for the most appropriate treatment.

How To Give Benadryl To Cats?

If giving Benadryl tablets, hold your cat in your lap or place her up on a table . Carefully point your cat’s head toward the ceiling, open your cat’s mouth by placing one finger on the lower teeth and quickly place the pill as far back into the throat as possible.

How to get a cat to swallow a pill?

Then, allow your cat to close her mouth and gently stroke her under the chin to encourage her to swallow the pill. Hold your cat’s mouth closed until you know that she has swallowed the pill.

How to give a cat a syringe?

Position the syringe just inside her mouth, behind one of her canine teeth. Aim the syringe far back into the mouth to the back of the tongue, then gently and slowly squirt the liquid into your cat’s mouth, giving your cat time to swallow and breathe.

How long does it take for a cat to vomit after taking Benadryl?

Difficulty urinating. Drooling. Diarrhea. Vomiting. Cats will usually show signs of unwanted side effects within one hour of taking Benadryl. If you notice your cat exhibiting any of the above signs while taking Benadryl, stop giving the medication and contact your veterinarian for what you should do.

What happens if a cat eats a wasp?

In cases of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), cats experience such signs as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures or collapse. These severe reactions, which can be caused by the sting of wasps or bees or bite of insects or snakes, require urgent veterinary attention.

Why does my cat scratch and chew?

Additionally, cats that are scratching and chewing due to allergies or another skin condition need additional medical care to help address the primary reason for the itching, as well as to treat secondary conditions that might have developed, like skin infections.

Does Benadryl help with allergies?

These severe reactions, which can be caused by the sting of wasps or bees or bite of insects or snakes, require urgent veterinary attention. Benadryl is not enough to reduce severe allergic reactions.

What is the best medicine for a cat that has a runny nose?

Has your cat been sneezing, had watery eyes, and runny nose? Experienced a bee sting or bug bite and constantly itching? Or perhaps, developed an adverse vaccine reaction? If your cat was in any of these situations before, chances are the vet recommended Benadryl.

Can you use CBD oil for cats?

If you prefer a natural alternative for managing your cat’s allergy, you should try CBD oil for cats. Cannabidiol prevents overreactions of the immune system and soothes common allergy symptoms. We recommend using the Honest Paws CBD products – CBD oil and CBD treats. They are made of full-spectrum and organic hemp and will boost your cat’s overall health and wellbeing.

Does Benadryl block histamine?

Once histamine binds, it results in itchiness, swelling, and allergy symptoms. By blocking the histamine, Benadryl prevents the chain of reaction s that lead to allergies.

Can a cat overdose on Benadryl?

Cats that are given an overdose of Benadryl or are allergic to the medication can have serious reactions that need vet attention immediately. Some of the signs that your cat has overdosed on Benadryl or is allergic to the drug are:

Can you put Benadryl in cat food?

For a precise dose, liquid Benadryl for cats is best. It is also simple to disguise the liquid form of Benadryl in your cat’s food or drink for the fussiest purring prince or princess.

Can Benadryl be used for cats?

For dogs, Benadryl is an excellent drug to help with motion sickness, when taken in consultation with a veterinarian. If your cat suffers from motion sickness when riding in your car, Benadryl for cats is an option, as it can work as a mild sedative.

Can cats take Benadryl?

If your cat cannot tolerate Benadryl or diphenhydramine medication for any reason, there are other natural options for antihistamine relief from allergies. One of the best natural remedies for supporting skin health and assisting the immune system in cats is CBD oil.

What diseases do cats have?

What’s that, you ask? They’re a collection of (typically) skin, airway and intestinal diseases cats suffer much more frequently than dogs. They can cause stomatitis (oral inflammation), rodent ulcers (unsightly upper lip lesions), eosinophilic plaques (crusty sores), intestinal ulceration and diarrhea, and bronchitis, tracheitis and asthma , among other problems.

Can PetMD answer pet health questions?

Note: PetMD isn’t able to respond to pet health questions or to offer veterinary advice.

Does Zyrtec help with itching?

Though it doesn’t work for all itchy cats, it does seem to help quite a bit — far more than Benadryl’s diphenhydramine and significantly more than chlorpheniramine (my former go-to antihistamine for cats). The dermatologists on VIN (the Veterinary Information Network) seem to agree: Good, safe stuff for cats, this Zyrtec.

Can cats take Zyrtec?

Lately, it’s been determined that a significant percentage of cats affected by these eosinophilic diseases respond well to Zyrtec. Complete remission of symptoms is actually possible for some once this drug is initiated. So far, this seems to be true for all eosinophilic cases, save those of the respiratory variety (Who knows why?).

Is Zyrtec safe for dogs?

Except in older dogs whose kidney function I carefully screen before embarking on a course, Zyrtec has proved incredibly safe and moderately effective. The ability to buy it OTC (over the counter) and dose it only once daily ...

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1.Antihistamines For Cats - Usage & Dosage Chart - Cat-World

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6 hours ago I would never, ever give a cat antihistamines. If you, like myself, have a cat with chronic sneezing and a snotty nose, it is far safer to give him or her 4life transfer factor classic. (Amazon) I give my kitty Cheeto 1–3 per day, depending upon how snotty she is.

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