Cat Allergy

In a recent report, it was suggested that millions of people in the USA are allergic to cats, in some way. People sometimes misinterpret the symptoms of cat allergy, believing that it is due to cat dander, when more often it is caused by allergens from sweat and saliva.

It seems that a carbohydrate structure called “Fel d 1”, is a protein found in a cat’s sweat or saliva, and is an allergen responsible for cat allergy. Because “Fel d 1” is tiny, even by comparison with mold spores and pollen, it is more likely to cause an allergic reaction. It can readily penetrate nasal passages, and find its way into the lungs, and can cause allergy symptoms such as asthma.

Because of their microscopic size “Fel d 1” become airborne, and float about increasing the risk of cat allergy. Cats like to keep clean, and they are constantly grooming themselves, by licking their fur. Unfortunately they deposit “Fel d 1”, which is contained in their saliva, and dries into their fur. It can then be shaken or stroked off, to become airborne and dispersed throughout the home. It comes to rest on walls, furniture, and windows, and amazingly, it can remain for years, even after the cat is no longer with you! So you will need to make a special effort to remove the allergen to protect yourself from cat allergy.

To limit the risk of cat allergy everything will need to be thoroughly cleaned on a constant basis. There are special devices, and vacuum cleaners available using HEPA, (high efficiency particulate air) filter, to prevent the airborne allergens from being re-circulated. Be sure to wash any fabrics, in which allergens could collect, in very hot water. Bedding and soiled clothes will need to be similarly dealt with. These measures will help to keep cat allergy in check.

Cat Allergy Symptoms

Cat allergy can affect the skin, eyes, ears, nose, throat, and lungs. The symptoms include the following:

Coughing and wheezing
Itching
Ears seeming blocked
Bronchitis
Sneezing
Watery eyes
Runny nose
Sore skin

Controlling Cat Allergy

To repeat the obvious the best way to avoid cat allergy is not to have a cat! There are many cat lovers who will not heed such advice, as the joy they experience from their feline friend, exceeds their discomfort. Loving and protecting your cat is one thing, but you should still think about yourself, because if you were to be severely incapacitated, you would not be able to care for your pet.

Keep abreast of developments and ensure that you have tried and tested cat allergy relief products available. Since “Fel d 1” allergens are airborne you will require air filters, of the HEPA type, and may find an air conditioner also helps.

Much will depend on the severity of your cat allergy. You are the best person to know whether the symptoms are mild to moderate, to the extent that you can deal with them yourself. However, if the situation worsens you should consult your doctor who will know what specialized medical assistance is available, when cat allergy is responsible for serious symptoms. In such circumstances he would probably question the wisdom of keeping a cat on your premises.

Allergy Checklist:

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