Understanding how pollen allergies can affect your cat can help you reduce exposure to pollen to reduce the impact of pollen allergens. It is important to notice signs of atopic dermatitis and get the required treatment.
As the seasons change and flowers begin to bloom, many of us enjoy the beauty of nature. But for some people and their cats, this time of year can bring more sneezes than smiles. Pollen allergies, commonly known as hay fever in humans, can affect both humans and cats, making spring and summer a little less pleasant. But what exactly are pollen allergies, and what can you do to help yourself and your cat?
A pollen allergy is when the immune system reacts to pollen as if it were something harmful, like a virus or bacteria. Pollen is a fine powder released by trees, grasses, and weeds to fertilize other plants. For most people and animals, pollen is harmless. But in those with allergies, the body treats it as a threat and fights back.
In humans, this reaction causes common allergy symptoms like:
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy or watery eyes
Coughing
Puffy eyes
In cats, pollen allergies can look different. Instead of sneezing, cats usually show symptoms through their skin. This condition is known as atopic dermatitis, and it can include symptoms such as excessive scratching or licking, inflamed and itchy skin, and hair loss.
Cats may also sneeze or have watery eyes, but skin symptoms are the most common sign of an allergy.
Just like humans, cats can develop allergies over time. They may be allergic to one type of pollen, such as tree pollen in the spring or weed pollen in the fall. When your cat goes outside, or when you bring pollen indoors on your clothes, shoes, or through open windows, it can come into contact with the allergen and react.
If you or your cat are showing signs of allergies, it’s important to talk to a doctor or veterinarian. For humans, a visit to an allergist can include a skin prick test or blood test to identify which types of pollen cause a reaction.
For cats, diagnosis can be more complicated. Your vet may suggest a process called "allergy testing" through either blood samples or intradermal skin testing (a small amount of allergen is injected under the skin). However, these tests are usually done only if the allergy is severe or ongoing.
Often, vets will first try to rule out other causes like fleas, food allergies, or skin infections before testing for pollen.
While there is no cure for pollen allergies, there are many ways to manage the symptoms for both humans and cats:
For humans, you can start with staying indoors during high-pollen times (usually early morning and windy days). Also make sure to keep windows closed and use air filters. After being outside it is important to shower and change clothes. Take over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays (make sure to consult with a doctor about the best option). Additionally, consider allergy shots (immunotherapy) for long-term relief.
For Cats, you can wipe your cat’s fur and paws with a damp cloth after they’ve been outside. Vacuum and clean your home regularly to remove pollen and the spread of it at your home. Keep windows closed during high-pollen days and use air purifiers to reduce indoor pollen levels. Ask your vet about antihistamines, skin creams, or even allergy shots for cats.
Pollen allergies are not just a human issue, your cat can suffer too. Understanding the signs and working with your healthcare providers can help you and your feline friend breathe easier and live more comfortably during allergy season. With the right care and a few lifestyle changes, both you and your cat can enjoy the seasons without the sniffles and scratches.
References:
Cleveland Clinic. (2023, November 20). Pollen Allergy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/pollen-allergy
PDSA. (2025, February). Skin allergies (atopic dermatitis) in cats. PDSA. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/skin-allergies-atopic-dermatitis-in-cats
Jensen‐Jarolim, E., Einhorn, L., Herrmann, I., Thalhammer, J. G., & Panakova, L. (2015). Pollen Allergies in Humans and their Dogs, Cats and Horses: Differences and Similarities. Clinical and Translational Allergy, 5(1), 15-n/a. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13601-015-0059-6
Written by: T.T.
