Cat Allergies and Your Friendly Feline

A favorite pastime worldwide is owning and caring for pets. Many grow close to their pets and consider them a family member. Choosing a pet depends on many factors. Where are you going to live, how much space do you have available, what kind of climate do you have, and finally, what are your personal likes and personal preference.

Pets range from many different animals. While some may choose a snake, rabbit, bird or lizard, many prefer the more common pets: dogs and cats. Many, who would otherwise choose a cat, will not due to allergies. Cat allergies can vary from mild to severe. So it is most important to take care when you are around cats.

Coping with Cat Allergies

Forty percent of people who suffer from asthma also have cat allergies and are much more sensitive to these creatures than to dogs.

A protein found in the cat’s skin and saliva is the major problem for this allergy. When the cat licks his fun to clean himself, he deposits this protein onto his fur. Therefore this causes the reaction in sensitive people.

An allergen can promote a reaction—dust mites, pollen, and animal dander. The cat hair itself is not the cause of the reaction, but it is the protein in the dander and the saliva. When the allergens are airborne, the symptoms begin.

No cats are known to be hypoallergenic, however; male cats do cause more allergic reactions because of the testosterone increasing in the cat’s glands. This in turn increases the protein. The cat allergens are found mainly in homes where the cats live, but are also found in offices and places where animals are not allowed.

This protein is sticky and can be carried on the clothing of people from place to place. The particles causing the cat allergies can remain in air for long periods of time, and those who are sensitive are more likely to have a quick reaction when going into a room where there is a cat or multiple cats.

Wheezing, the most common symptom of cat allergy, begins upon entrance to a room with cats. There are also more subtle, delayed reactions that can linger to up to a week or more. Chronic asthma can be an ongoing malady for those who are exposed often. Hives and eczema may also occur. Be safe, if allergic to cats, don’t be in their presence. It is better to maintain good health and be aware of the symptoms of your allergy. By yourself a dog!