About two percent of the US population is allergic to cats. One third of these allergic people continue to keep at least one cat at home despite medicaladvice to the contrary.
The major cat allergen is tiny, about one tenth the size of a spec of dust. The allergen is called "A glycoprotein, Fel d 1". It is secreted by the cat's sebaceous glands. This allergen is found in several places on a cat: fur, hair roots, mucous, pelt, saliva, serum, and urine.
Because cat allergen is so tiny, it can remain airborne for months. Unfortunately, it is ubiquitous as it can be detected in the dust of almost one third of homes that do not own a cat. The allergen can be carried in on clothing and is commonly found in such public places as schools, hospitals, and doctor's offices.
Cat Allergy Symptoms
Cat allergies can irritate the ears, eyes, nose, lungs, throat, and skin. Your ears may feel itchy or "plugged".
The eyes become red, itchy, swollen and watery. Your nose may become congested and itchy along with sneezing and congestion. Post nasal drip, frequent throat clearing, itching and hoarseness afflict the throat. Lung symptoms may include frequent bronchitis, chest tightness, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Your skin may develop hives or itchy rashes.
Do Hypoallergenic Cats Exist?
No, there are no hypoallergenic cats. However, male cats produce substantially more allergen than female cats. Neutered males produce less allergen than non-neutered males.
Preventation and Mitigation
The best (and most obvious) way to reduce cat allergen in the home is to get rid of the cat. Once the cat has gone "bye - bye", then all of the floors should be mopped / vacuumed thoroughly, the should walls wiped down with a damp cloth, and the rooms should be aired out regularly in order to reduce the level of cat allergen. Special filters are available for vacuum cleaners to prevent redepositing the allergen into the air. Replace your heating and air conditioning system filters as well. It may take up to 6 months to reduce the allergen levels in your home.
If you are unwilling to part with your cat, there are still some things you can and should do to reduce the concentration of allergens in your environment. Hardwood or vinyl floors are recommended instead of carpet. Draperies and soft upholstered furniture should be avoided. Keep the cat out of certain parts of the house, especially the bedroom and living room. A weekly bath will also reduce the allergens carried around by the cat.
Cat Allergy Treatment
As with any allergy, avoidance is the best course of treatment. Cat allergic people simply need to avoid cats at all times. However, many cat allergic people also love cats and are unwilling to give them up. Allergy shots, over the counter medications, as well as prescription medications are all available. Please consult with a physician to determine the best treatment for you.
