If your cat is having some sort of skin problems, then a visit to your vet may have resulted in a prescription for Atopica. Atopica is a strong medication that, if given regularly, can fix your cat’s skin problems. However, many cats are allergic to this medication, or their owners may simply be looking for alternatives to atopica for other reasons.
So in this article, we will help you decide the best alternative for atopica for your feline friend, and other things you can do to make your cat regain its health as soon as possible. Let’s dive in.
Best alternatives for Atopica for cats
Skin inflammation in cats is not very common, but when it does occur, it can be really uncomfortable for your cat.
There are various reasons why skin inflammation or allergies may occur like pollen, dust, weeds, and even molds. But Atopica is usually able to fix these issues, there can arise some issues with your cat.
So here are some alternatives you can use for your cat if Atopica does not suit its needs.
Using Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a good alternative to Atopica for your cat. As by the name, they are steroids so they work quickly and well, but you should use them with caution.
The way these steroids work is to push the pain receptors to numb themselves and bring the pain-relieving hormones forward so the atopy or skin disease is not felt by the cat for a given period of time.
Corticosteroids can be administered in the form of a tablet, injection, or even in spray form into the mouth.
You might know about steroids, there can be a bunch of side effects like increased thirst and hunger, energy loss in your feline friend, and calcium deposits as well.
Not only that, but a single overdose of corticosteroids can be enough to kill your cat, or cause some serious side effects in addition to skin disease.
Using different ointments or creams
If Atopica is not your cup of tea, there are creams and ointments available too. This is especially great if they are unable to ingest solid medication tablets.
A good brand for ointments for dermatologic treatment is Tacrolimus ointment.
Using Antihistamines
Antihistamines and antibiotics are also used as an alternative to treat atopic cats. These are FDA-approved medicines such as Benadryl but they are seen as more of a precautionary medication.
This means, that if you give antihistamines to your cat even if it does not have any skin problems, then it can work fine too.
While it still is a good healer of skin problems, it is said to be used with caution because the antihistamines may not suit every cat.
Even when it does work, it is advised to use it in addition to other medications and methods for notable results.
Antihistamines also have a couple of side effects such as anorexia in cats, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. You may also notice symptoms of laziness in your cat, so that is something you need to be wary of.
As soon as you notice any of these symptoms, either give your cat the medication, or consult a vet about what you should do next.
Treating with natural therapy instead of medicine altogether
Homeopathic therapy is an effective method of treatment for skin disease. If you are looking for something more organic and effective, then homeopathy is great but it does take longer than the other options we have mentioned.
It is important to note that going down the natural route, there is not one simple way that suits all cats, it depends on many factors and you may have to try different remedies before finding the best one.
Some notable mentions of natural remedies for atopic cats are:
Herbs
Just hearing the name of natural and organic ingredients may bring herbs into your mind. Herbs are great for anyone looking for an alternative option to Atopica for cats and corticosteroids as well.
Though it takes time to heal your cat of its skin disease, it can help heal skin inflammation and detoxify its skin, making it feel fresh.
Some examples of herbs that are a good source of these properties are burdock, gypsum, and anemarrhena.
Using organic products
Organic products can be a bit costly, but they are worth it if you use the right ones.
Using organic products on your cat’s skin can not only soothe it, but also remove toxins from it and reduce inflammation.
Pair that with regular bathing, and you can avoid most minor skin infections at most.
You can start off by switching your cat’s shampoo and soap to an organic one, and then slowly make a change to other organic products if you feel a difference.
Homeopathic way
The homeopathic method of treatment has faced a bit of criticism in the past, but because it is a natural method, there really is no harm in giving it a try for your cat.
These medications have to be given multiple times in a day, and preferably dissolved in water to make it easier for your cat to swallow.
Some good alternatives to atopica for cats within the homeopathic realm are pulsatilla, belladonna, rhus tox, and phytolacca.
However, it is noticed that these medications work best in humans and if given for skin disease, there are not many notable changes observed.
It is advisable to talk to a vet before you decide to give your cat any sort of homeopathic treatment.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega fatty acids are the good kind of fat that is needed by your cat’s body. If you give it in a moderate amount, it can help with reducing inflammation and protein content in the body.
Fatty acids are known to make your cat’s fur stronger and its skin healthier. It also helps form a shiny and nourished coat, which will reduce the entrance of bacteria on the skin.
However, it is important that you do not overdo Omega 3 fatty acids. They are fats after all! Too much and your cat can become fat and lazy, and that itself comes with other issues.
Switching up your cat’s diet
Cats with atopy can have allergic reactions to different types of food which can also be the real issue behind atopy sometimes.
Your vet may advise you to keep your cat away from certain foods, and you should also try to make sure that the food you currently give your cat is not harming it in any way.
This is fairly easy to do; you just need to switch up some of the common ingredients in your meals for a few days and see whether your cat’s problem is intensifying or not.
If your cat loves trying new types of food often then there are more chances it can be inflicted with problems.
Simply keep it on a single feed for a while until it starts to get better. You can consult the vet for the healthiest and best-suited diet for your kitty during this time.
Administering related injections
Injections are a quick way to get your cat feeling better, but their effect usually does not last very long.
While they may be administered when there are signs of weakness and diarrhea, vomiting etc, specific injections exist that treat certain types of allergies in cats.
Injections for allergic cats may have to be given more frequently, hence, may require more visits to the vet.
Because of their short-lived effect nature, injections for atopic cats are not a proper alternative to atopica for cats, and many have to be used with other methods of treatment such as above.
Speaking of injections, have you made sure that your cat’s vaccinations are up to date?
Conclusion
In conclusion, what are some alternatives to atopica for cats?
If your cat has feline atopy or some other skin disease, there are certain alternatives you can use if atopica does not suit your cat.
Corticosteroids and antihistamines are some of the prominent examples, and both of them are quite strong in treating any skin problems. They also come with their share of side effects, so you have to be cautious while using them for your cat.
On the other hand, there is a natural way of treating skin disease, such as using organic products on skin, use of herbs, homeopathic medicines and increased intake of omega 3 fatty acids.
Many vets recommend seeing if there are any dietary issues leading to skin problems, in which case you will have to see what ingredient/food is causing the problem and fix it by the root.
If the skin allergy is not that severe, you can even use medicated ointments on your cat’s skin.
Finally, if your cat is being given atopica for allergic reactions and it is not working out, then you can turn towards injections, which are a quick (but short) method of treatment but they give instant relief.
However, if your cat undergoes any kind of side effects while trying out these remedies and alternatives, then make sure to let the vet know as soon as possible.
