CAN YOU LIVE WITH A CAT IF YOU ARE ALLERGIC?

 

People with cat allergies aren’t allergic to fur, but rather a protein found in a cat’s saliva, urine, and dander.

 

Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. But contrary to what you might think, it’s not the fur or hair that’s the real problem. People with cat allergies are really allergic to proteins in the cat’s saliva, urine, and dander (dried flakes of skin).

 

How do these tiny proteins cause such a big allergic reaction in the body?

 

People with allergies have oversensitive immune systems. Their bodies mistake harmless things – like cat dander – for dangerous invaders, and attack them as they would bacteria or viruses. The symptoms of the allergy are the side effects of your body’s assault on the allergen, or trigger.

 

Keep in mind that even if you don’t have an actual cat allergy, your cat can still indirectly cause your allergies to flare up. Outside cats can bring in pollen, mold, and other allergens on their fur.

 

 

And what about so-called “hypoallergenic” cats?

 

So regardless of its breed, hair length, or how much it sheds. If you know that you or another family member is allergic to cats, getting one, no matter what the breed is not a good idea.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Cat Allergies?

Symptoms of cat allergies can include:

  • coughing and wheezing
  • hives or a rash on the chest and face
  • red, itchy eyes
  • redness of the skin where a cat has scratched, bitten or licked you
  • runny, itchy, stuffy nose
  • sneezing

 

Fast facts about cat allergies:

  • Most people experience mild to moderate symptoms.
  • Some people who have allergies may be able to live with cats.
  • Researchers do not fully understand why some people develop cat allergies and others do not.

 

Can you live with a cat if you are allergic?

 

Depending on the severity of the allergy, it may be possible to live with cats. Doing so requires a combination of allergy treatment and diligent management of cat hair and other particles. Knowing what specific proteins cause the allergic reaction can help people with cat allergies decide how best to manage their symptoms.

 

An allergy does not have to cause chronic suffering, so take proactive measures to reduce the likelihood of an allergic reaction.