My cat chews paws raw. Is it allergies or an underlying problem?

Question

My cats seem to have allergies and keep chewing on their limbs. It's gotten so bad the last few months that their paws are almost raw. My vet has given them steroids and anti-biotics but, that did absolutely nothing. I've tried other natural ointments, flea medicine, changing their litter, food, etc. I've spent hundreds trying to provide them some relief. Do they actually have allergies or is there an underlying problem no one is catching? Thank you. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 years and 10 months old | 15 lbs

Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA · Accepted Answer

Persistent and recurring itchiness without obvious physical cause such as fleas is a red flag for allergic skin disease. It would be impossible to assess the case fully without a complete review of all previous tests and response (full, partial or none) to previous treatments and diet changes. My general approach would be a full physical exam and skin scrapes to rule out infections, ringworm and parasites such as fleas or mites and treatment of any of these as required. Following this, a diet trial of a hydrolyzed food such as royal canin hypoallergenic for 8 weeks to rule out adverse food reactions or sensitivites. If no response to food trial, skin biopsies and allergy medications would be considered, as well as blood tests for allergies and underlying medical causes. Referral to a specialist, certified dermatologist is always worthwhile in complex skin cases

My cat chews paws raw. Is it allergies or an underlying problem?

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