Cats with skin allergies experience chronic pruritus and secondary infections requiring systematic investigation to identify and manage triggers.
Allergic skin disease causes chronic pruritus that drives self-trauma including overgrooming to the point of alopecia and secondary skin damage. Cats in chronic pruritic distress show behavioral signs including irritability, interrupted grooming, and reduced social interaction. Identifying and eliminating the allergic trigger provides relief that dramatically improves quality of life. The eight-week food trial required for food allergy diagnosis requires owner commitment but yields definitive diagnosis that guides permanent dietary management.