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NorthCare- North Vancouver Animal Hospital & West Vancouver West Vancouver Veterinary Clinic

Cat Allergy Shots: What You Need to Know About Immunotherapy

Introduction: Relief for Your Cat’s Allergies Starts Here
Does your cat suffer from constant itching, sneezing, watery eyes, or irritated skin? If you’ve tried everything—changing diets, switching litter, and using medications—but nothing works long-term, cat allergy shots, also known as cat allergy immunotherapy, may be the most effective solution.

At North Care Animal Hospital, we specialize in pet allergy and dermatology services, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options tailored to your feline friend. Whether you live in North Vancouver or nearby West Vancouver, our walk-in and in-home veterinary services ensure convenient access to long-term allergy relief.


What Are Cat Allergy Shots?

Cat allergy shots (feline allergen-specific immunotherapy) are a scientifically proven treatment designed to desensitize your cat’s immune system to allergens. Instead of masking the symptoms like antihistamines or corticosteroids, allergy shots target the root cause—your cat’s overreactive immune response.

These custom-formulated injections contain tiny amounts of the allergens causing the reaction. Over time, your cat builds tolerance, resulting in fewer symptoms and better quality of life.


Why Consider Cat Allergy Immunotherapy?

Many pet owners are unaware that over 15% of cats experience chronic allergies, including atopic dermatitis, flea allergy dermatitis, and food-related sensitivities. While some conditions can be managed with diet or medication, environmental allergies often require a long-term approach.

Here’s why cat allergy immunotherapy may be the right solution for your pet:

BenefitDetails
Long-Term ReliefReduces the severity of allergic reactions instead of masking symptoms.
Custom TreatmentAllergy serum is tailored based on your cat’s test results.
Fewer Side EffectsCompared to daily antihistamines or steroids.
High Success RateApproximately 60–80% of cats show significant improvement.
Reduced Veterinary VisitsFewer flare-ups lead to less frequent emergency visits.

Common Allergens That Trigger Cat Allergies

Allergy testing helps identify the specific allergens causing your cat’s symptoms. The most common include:

  • Dust mites

  • Pollen (grass, trees, weeds)

  • Mold spores

  • Flea saliva

  • Household chemicals or cleaning products

Once diagnosed, we formulate a personalized feline allergy shot program targeting these specific allergens.

Learn more about our Pet Allergy and Dermatology Services for in-depth evaluation and customized treatment plans.


How Are Cat Allergy Shots Administered?

After allergy testing—either via intradermal skin testing or serum testing—we create a custom immunotherapy serum. Here’s how the treatment works:

  1. Initial Phase (Build-Up):

    • Small, increasing doses are given 1–2 times per week.

    • Typically lasts 3–6 months.

  2. Maintenance Phase:

    • Once tolerance is built, injections are given every 2–4 weeks.

    • Continued indefinitely based on response.

Our veterinary team can train you to administer these injections at home, or we can do them during your walk-in visits at our North Vancouver animal hospital.

If you’re in West Vancouver, take advantage of our in-home veterinary services for easy access to this treatment:
In-home or mobile vet services


How Effective Are Cat Allergy Shots?

Studies show that 60% to 80% of cats respond positively to immunotherapy. Some cats may become symptom-free, while others experience significantly reduced flare-ups and need fewer medications.

Success depends on:

  • The accuracy of allergy testing

  • Consistency in administering doses

  • Minimizing other environmental allergens

In our experience at North Care Animal Hospital, most clients see noticeable improvement within 6–12 months, and many cats are able to reduce or eliminate daily medications altogether.


Are There Any Side Effects?

Immunotherapy is generally safe and well-tolerated by cats. However, mild side effects may include:

  • Temporary swelling at the injection site

  • Itching or redness

  • Rare systemic reactions (anaphylaxis)

Our veterinarians will monitor your cat closely during the initial phase and adjust the dosage as needed.


Is Immunotherapy Worth It for Your Cat?

If your cat suffers from chronic itching, skin infections, or respiratory issues, and standard treatments aren’t working, cat allergy shots could be life-changing. Not only does immunotherapy offer better long-term relief, but it’s also more cost-effective over time compared to frequent vet visits and medications.

Our walk-in services in North Vancouver and mobile services to West Vancouver make starting this treatment simple and convenient.

📞 Call us today at 604-984-1464 to book an allergy consultation and get your cat on the road to recovery.
Or walk in — no appointment needed:
Walk-in Veterinary Services


Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital?

At North Care Animal Hospital, we specialize in pet dermatology and allergy testing, offering advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care plans. Our team serves North Vancouver and nearby West Vancouver, and we’re open 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM for your convenience.

We are known for:

  • Same-day walk-in availability

  • In-home service for stress-free care

  • Experienced veterinarians with allergy expertise

  • Affordable, custom-formulated immunotherapy treatments


Final Thoughts: Give Your Cat a Healthier, Happier Life

Cat allergy immunotherapy is more than just a treatment—it’s a commitment to your cat’s comfort and well-being. If you’re tired of temporary fixes and want a long-term solution, consider starting cat allergy shots at North Care Animal Hospital today.

📍 Visit us at 1061 Marine Drive, Unit #101, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S6
📞 Call 604-984-1464
📧 Email: northcareanimalhospital@gmail.com
🕗 Open 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, 7 days a week
🌐 Pet Allergy & Dermatology Services