Are you someone that struggles with a pet allergy? You are not alone – 10-20% of the world’s population experiences dog or cat allergies according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
As a cat lover with a moderately severe feline allergy, I was curious what the deal is with cat allergies. Are cat allergies as common as I think they are? Or, do I just know a lot of people with cat allergies?! Is there such a thing as any hypoallergenic cat breeds? Let’s dive in!
Believe it or not, there is not that much credible information out there on the subject. It seems to me this is an under-research and under-published area. To get a scientific perspective, I dove into “Human allergy to cats: A review for veterinarians on prevalence, causes, symptoms and control” which will be quoted throughout.
The Prevalence of Cat Allergies
How common are cat allergies? Allergies to cats “are considered the second most common cause of indoor respiratory allergies and the third most common overall (after pollens and house dust mites).” So, I am not alone! Furthermore, cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies.
If you have asthma, exposure to pet dander can be triggering regardless if you are allergic. In the instance of experiencing both asthma and a cat allergy, reactions can feel inhibiting. So, what can be done?
Cat Allergies: The Basics
Contrary to popular belief, the hair itself is not what causes the allergies. It is the protein in pet dander and saliva that causes reactions. In the case of cats, Fel d 1is the leading protein that causes allergies.
We won’t dive into the science behind this, but this may have been something you have heard of before. Since the protein exists in the cat’s saliva, their grooming distributes it further among their coats.
Treating Cat Allergies
Unfortunately, the most effective way to treat cat allergies is not widely accepted or appreciated for those with cats. Separating the person with the cat allergy and the cat is the best way to prevent negative reactions. Expectedly, though, cat lovers do not want to hear this! So, what else is there?
Treatment Through Diet
Specific food focused on reducing allergies in cats has become available on the market recently. There is some introductory research that shows this can help reduce the allergen-causing protein. It varies cat to cat, but there is hope that this may help and is worth a shot.
Reducing Household Dander
It is crucial to clean regularly to decrease pet dander. Hardwood floors are preferable over carpet as they can be cleaned of hair more thoroughly. Ensuring that you have a good vacuum with a good filter ensures that your vacuum is not leaking collected dander.
As expected, wash bedding and curtains regularly and wipe down and dust surfaces. Consider increasing natural ventilation (which reduces airborne concentrations of allergens) by opening a window. Getting an air purifier with a Hepa Filter can also reduce the airborne exposure.
If desired, you could reduce your cat’s access within the household, like having the bedrooms as a cat free zone. Unfortunately, though, this can lead to behavioral issues and limited physical contact between cat and owner can negatively impact their bond.
Wash Your Hands!
Whether you have a known pet allergy or not, touching your eyes after petting a cat or dog can cause itching. Make sure you regularly wash your hands, especially before you touch your face. After a pet or cuddle sesh, consider changing your clothes and giving your hands a wash!
Medication
The best way for humans to treat their cat allergies internally is through medication. An over the counter allergy pill can be a great start! For more severe allergies, regular allergy shots can help lessen the severity of allergy symptoms. Of course, bring this up with your doctor if you are being negatively impacted by allergies.
What About Different Breeds?
You’ve probably heard that different cat breeds are hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, there is no scientific data to substantiate this. There are, however, certain cat breeds with lower levels of the proteins that trigger allergies. Here’s a few highlights – but if you are curious, check out 12 ‘Hypoallergenic’ Cats for People with Allergies.
Gorgeous Siberians and Balinese cats don’t sacrifice their furriness for reduced allergies! These fluffs are surprising in their reduced allergy exposure given their thick and long hair. For a shorter coat, Siamese, Bengals, Burmese, and Russian Blues have pretty hair. And, of course, there are those unique hairless cats! The Sphynx in all its bald glory produces fewer allergens than fluffy cat breeds.
In Closing…
There is no magic solution to cat allergies, yet! While science continues to work on a magical cure to this common allergy, we have to take steps ourselves to reduce the impacts of our cat allergies. It’s all about finding what works for you!
