Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Cats? Our Vet Explains

Pomeranian dog and cat sitting on the carpet

Many people know someone who suffers from a cat allergy. Despite their uncomfortable symptoms, many allergic pet owners choose to still live with their feline companions. We often associate a cat allergy with humans, but many people will be surprised to learn that dogs can also be allergic to cats.

While cat allergies are not as common in dogs as in people, some dogs do develop allergic signs after being in close contact with cats.

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

Yes, Dogs Can Be Allergic to Cats!

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to an allergen, causing various clinical signs. Like humans, dogs can develop allergies to different substances, including cat dander. While some dogs can be allergic to cat dander, it is important to note that most dog allergies are more commonly associated with other environmental allergens such as pollen, grasses, molds, house dust mites, and fleas.

dog and cat with their owner
Image Credit: Chendongshan, Shutterstock

What Are the Signs of Allergies in Dogs?

If you suspect that your dog may be allergic to cats or another type of allergen, there are several signs to look out for. A classic allergy symptom is itchy skin, which can lead to excessive licking, scratching, and chewing.

Dogs with allergies may also experience the following:
  • Hives
  • Recurring ear infections
  • Respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and red, puffy, watery eyes

Food allergies can also present with these signs. Sometimes dogs with a food allergy also experience gastrointestinal upset, like vomiting and diarrhea.

If left untreated, these signs can lead to other health issues like secondary infections that can be uncomfortable or even painful for your pet. Identifying a dog’s specific allergy can be challenging, especially since dogs can be allergic to a variety of substances, both in their environment and in the food they eat.

If you suspect your dog is suffering from allergies, are concerned for their wellbeing, or simply want more information on their health, you should contact your vet directly for an assessment. They can provide you with more information and a care plan.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

How Can I Tell if My Dog Is Allergic to Cats?

If your dog starts showing any of the classic allergy signs mentioned above, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to identify any underlying causes. Your vet may recommend a test to identify potential allergies and rule out other conditions that may present with similar signs.

One common test used to diagnose allergies in dogs is called an intradermal skin test. This special test is similar to what is done in human medicine and is usually performed by a veterinary dermatology specialist. It involves injecting a small amount of the allergen under your dog’s skin and monitoring for reaction.

Another diagnostic option is a blood test, which can identify the specific allergen causing your dog’s clinical signs. Since many blood tests available today are not considered very reliable, it is best to consult a veterinary professional for advice on the best options for allergy testing.

Once your dog’s allergies have been identified, your veterinarian can help you develop a treatment plan to manage their signs and improve their overall quality of life.

british shorthair cat and dog in the grass
Image Credit: Chendongshan, Shutterstock

What Should I Do if My Dog Is Allergic to Cats?

If your dog is diagnosed with a cat allergy, your vet may prescribe medications like antihistamines, steroids, or other allergy medications to manage your dog’s itching, licking, and chewing. Routine bathing with medicated shampoos can also help to minimize allergen exposure and soothe itchy or inflamed skin.

If you suspect your dog may be allergic to the cat in your home, try to keep the two animals separated as much as possible. Vacuuming regularly and using air purifiers with a HEPA filter to filter out allergens are important prevention strategies for managing your dog’s allergy. Removing soft surfaces like carpets and rugs where cat dander can accumulate can also reduce the allergen exposure for your dog.

cute scottish fold cat and welsh corgi dog lying under blanket on sofa
Image Credit: LightField Studios, Shutterstock

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

Final Thoughts

Even though cat allergies are far less common than other environmental allergies in dogs, it’s important to seek help from a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has any sort of allergy. With a proper evaluation, care, and environmental adjustments at home, your dog should be able to live with their cat allergy with minimal discomfort.


Featured Image Credit: Olesya Kuznetsova, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How Did Wolves Become Dogs? Facts & FAQ

Domestic dogs are a treasure in our society, and for many people, dogs are members of the family, sometimes even taking on a...

Pyoderma In Dogs: Our Vet Discusses Signs, Causes & Treatment

You may have heard the term pyoderma used frequently by your veterinarian around your dog, especially if they have allergies. While any dog...

Teacup Dachshund: Do They Exist? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

“Teacup” is a buzzword you probably won’t hear in the circles of reputable breeders. That’s because it’s not an official term. Teacup is...

4 Pet Safe Insecticides to Use at Home: Safety & Facts

Many people are worried about using pesticides around pets and for a good reason. Eating insect and rat bait can be extremely harmful...

More related

How Much Is a Teacup Pomeranian? 2025 Price Guide

Having any dog of any size requires the right finances for sure! However, you might think that having a Teacup Pomeranian would be...

Dogs and Cats: How Lava & Hela Treat the Kitties

Hi, I’m Dr. Maja! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two crossbreed dogs, Lava and Hela. For those of...

How Old Is 8 in Dog Years? Vet-Approved Age Guide by Breed Size

“Seven dog years for every human year” may be easy to follow, but owners are often surprised to learn this outdated rule is...

Can Dogs Eat Plums? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Risks

While choosing and preparing fruits and vegetables for your canine friend, it’s essential to be mindful of specific options that may not suit...

Keep reading

11 Best Dog Foods for Maltese Tear Stains in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Tear stains are caused by excessive tear production or an inability to adequately dispose of excess tears. While it is true that certain breeds, including the Maltese, are more likely to exhibit tear stains, that doesn’t mean you have to...

Maltese dog eating from a bowl

Can Dogs Eat Citrus Fruit? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

It seems natural that you’d want to share your food with your pup. After all, meals have been part of our collective history since domestication. Sharing is fine with some foods, like meat, because dogs are considered omnivores. That said,...

Can Dogs Eat_citrus fruit

9 Best High Fiber Dog Foods for Anal Gland Problems in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dealing with anal gland problems in your dog can be smelly, gross, and frustrating. Anal gland issues are uncomfortable for your dog, and some even develop abscesses and other serious infections related to anal gland problems. If you see your...

Ginger dog eating

Is Salmon Dog Food Good for Dogs? Uses, Benefits & Considerations

Protein is the single most essential element in dog food, so how do you pick the right one? With options like chicken, fish, beef, and salmon in dog food recipes, it is important to know their characteristics and what to...

dog wanting to eat salmon

Essence Dog Food Review 2025: Recalls, Pros & Cons

Review Summary In today’s world, it can be hard to figure out which dog food brand is best for your pup. You love your dog and want the best for them. And you know that feeding them the best food...

Dogster_Essence Dog Food Review

Hill’s Science Diet vs Blue Buffalo Dog Food: 2025 Comparison, Pros & Cons

Dog food can seem like a never-ending brigade of decisions. There are endless dog food brands available, and each brand produces dozens of recipes. On the shelf, it can be challenging to discern which dog foods are worth buying. We...

Dogster_Dog Food Hill’s Science Diet VS Blue Buffalo

10 Best Dog Food Toppers in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Providing nutritious food and treats for your canine is vital for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. High-quality meals were once a niche market, but now, premium brand companies enjoy record sales. Although high-end pet food is typically produced with fewer fillers...

cute corgi dog eating dry dog food

Can Dogs Eat Green Apples? Vet-Approved Facts!

Apples are hardier than many other fruits, so they are often available no matter the season, making them great healthy snacks throughout the year. Multiple varieties are consistently available, including Red Delicious, Gala, and Fuji, which are considered red apples....

Can Dogs Eat_green apples