Does cat litter make you sneeze? What about your cat? Surprisingly, just like people, cats can be allergic to their litter. This is not a new problem and, while it is rare, it has become slightly more common. There are many cat litters available these days – some are marketed for their odor control abilities, refreshing fragrances, being biodegradable or toilet friendly, and for minimizing dust byproducts – and all of them have different ingredients or fragrances added to them. What may be pleasant for us to scoop might actually be harmful to your cat.
Can Cat Litter Cause Allergies?
Cats can develop litter allergies through inhalation of and direct contact with their litter. Keep your cat’s bathroom habits in mind. Cats are usually digging around in their litter box, which can kick up dust particles that land on their fur. Their paws are in constant contact with the material during their potty break. Once they have found the right spot, dig a little hole and do their business, most will then bury the urine or stool, kicking up even more airborne particles.
While air quality, ventilation and litter box location play a role in, the ingredients in your cat’s litter are the primary cause of allergies. Clays like sodium bentonite (an agent that reacts to moisture and initiates clumping) are the primary ingredient in most litters. These clays also have a mineral called silica in them. As the clay is altered into your litter product, the alteration creates crystalline silica particles, or “silica dust,” which are a known respiratory irritant to humans and animals and are easily inhaled by cats when they use the litter box. Other irritants include the additive chemicals and fragrances that help to make litter more marketable to pet owners.
Litter allergies can be quite severe depending on litter type and exposure. Clay-based products are the most common ingredient indicated in litter allergies. However, if your cat has environmental allergies, then some of the more natural products may be an irritant to them as well.
Signs Your Cat Is Allergic to Their Litter
Symptoms of litter allergies can be similar to those of an upper respiratory or skin infection. If your cat has confirmed allergies or reactive airway disease, they will be more prone to developing a litter allergy.
Cat litter allergy symptoms can include: * Watery and/or itchy eyes * Sneezing * “Runny” nose (discharge from nose or nasal congestion) * Red, irritated eyes * Inflamed ears or itchy skin * Feline acne * Facial swelling or hives * Scratching and self-trauma * Wheezing or a cough
As the cat is repeatedly exposed to the irritant, the allergic response can become more severe. These symptoms may only occur when your cat is near the litter box or while grooming because they’re breathing in and ingesting the dust particles. If the symptoms are more constant, the residual dust particles from litter are likely stuck on their fur, skin and paws. These symptoms are highly unpleasant, and once your cat makes a connection to the litter box, they may refuse to use it, leading to inappropriate urinary behaviors.
Most of the time, an allergic animal is typically allergic to more than one thing, which makes diagnosis challenging. If you suspect a litter allergy, you can test your theory by switching to a different type of litter. If the symptoms resolve, you have your answer. If they persist, the litter might be the better choice but other irritants in the environment are continuing to irritate your cat. It typically takes a few elimination trials before attaining positive results. Be sure to read the ingredients on your cat’s litter and avoid cross over from previous brands. Natural litter alternatives, including pine, wood, cedar, corn or wheat-based litter, are available. Some of them still clump but do not contain clay or silica.
Treating Cat Litter Box Allergies
Treating cat litter allergies can be as simple as eliminating the type of litter your cat is allergic to, but there are some additional measures you can take.
Here are a few other ways to treat cat litter allergies: * Do your best to minimize dust and allergens in the house. * Consider switching from a plastic litter box to something that is ceramic or metal (less dusty). * Change the litter often so it is as clean as possible. Keep in mind that dust from previous litter can build up in the litter box, be in your cat’s bedding and easily spread throughout the house, so it’s important to clean the box thoroughly when you change the litter. * Vacuum your home and wash your cat’s bedding regularly to decrease allergen build up. * Consider wiping your cat’s coat down with a damp wash rag to remove allergens on their skin and fur.
If all else fails, a veterinarian can prescribe antihistamines or medications to help minimize the symptoms.