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Can I give my cat my Hydroxyzine for his itching and scratching?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 years and 11 months old | 15 lbs

Can I give my 6 year old cat some of my Hydroxyzine for his itching and scratching?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 16th, 2018

Hydroxyzine is not FDA approved for use in veterinary medicine, but it is frequently used "off label" to treat allergies and itching in cats and dogs. Legally, we are prohibited from recommending prescription medications in the absence of a physical exam and a VPCR (veterinarian-patient-client relationship). What you can do, is contact your vet for a dose based on Boba's body weight. Just as in people, antihistamines will affect pets in different ways. You may find it works well, just ok or not at all. Check Boba over for fleas, which are the most common cause of itching and scratching. If found, treat him topically or orally for at least 3 consecutive months but preferably year round. You will also need to treat the environment for fleas. This means vacuuming everywhere and washing all bedding. This should be followed up with a cat safe area treatment to prevent re-infestation. If there are no fleas, you will need to have Boba examined by your veterinarian to diagnose infection (bacterial or fungal), other parasites (mites) or other allergens (food, environmental, inhaled, contact). It can be very frustrating given all the potential causes for allergic reactions. Discuss allergy testing, food elimination trials and hydrolyzed diets with your vet.

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