Update on Wiley (OTJ) - Skin allergies are back!

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WileyWonderCat

Member Since 2013
Hello!

Wiley was diagnosed with diabetes back in September 2013 after his second steroid shot for severe skin allergies. Then he quickly went into remission within a couple of weeks of Lantus use...or most likely as the predisolone shot finally wore off. Anyway, he had been doing really great for a few months - up until these past few weeks, and now his skin allergies are back with a vengeance. I treated him for fleas just in case, even though he is an indoor cat, and now he's tore all of his hair out from the nape of his neck where the flea treatment was and its a big bloody scab (in addition to tons of head and stomach scabs). He is really miserable. :(

So, the vet mentioned that maybe he needs to have another steroid shot and we will have to monitor his BG and probably have to go back on insulin. I am not happy with this option. What other options have people tried? I am going to try a few OTC treatments, like adding salmon oil to his diet, also I am going to order Vetericyn. What about other sprays with hydrocortisone? I know that is a steroid, but I wonder if it's less risky than a full steroid shot. Also, has anyone had luck with antihistamines or prozac?

I have not been successful in determining the source of his skin allergies, especially since they seem to come and go. Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!
-Jenny
 
Check what is blooming around your area. If it has been wet, check for molds. The timing seems seasonal to me.

If it is airborne, you want to check out the same things they recommend for humans with allergies. A HEPA filter for the HVAC, with regular replacement could help. Barring that (pricey) option, room HEPA cleaners may help some. Damp mopping/dusting smooth surfaces. Use the AC, rather than opening windows. Keep Wiley indoors if you aren't already.

Our rule of thumb is you treat the other condition as needed and adjust the insulin around it. Rather than a depot shot, discuss using a small amount of oral steroid on a regular basis. Then you will know exactly how it is affecting the glucose and when, so you can tweak the dose as needed.
 
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