Cat Allergies: Causes, Symptoms & How to Live Happily with Your Paw-Pet

• Written by Sejal Singhania

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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My best friend once joked that he was in a toxic relationship... with his cat. And honestly? He wasn't wrong. She's soft, purring like a bundle of love in his arms, but she makes his eyes itchy and his lungs protest.

Being allergic to your pet is tough, but it is not the end of your love story. Welcome to the bittersweet world of cat allergies, where the most adorable pet may be the biggest drama queen for your immune system, and cuddles come with sneezes.

Whether you are a seasoned cat parent with seasonal sniffles or a hopeful adopter wondering why your eyes won’t stop watering, this blog is for you. We’re diving into the science behind cat skin allergies, what symptoms to watch for, and how to manage the madness without giving up on your favourite fluffiest companion. Because love can be messy, but it doesn’t have to be snotty.

Is Cat Allergy Common?

Yes, for sure! Cat allergies affect millions of people worldwide, making them one of the most common pet allergies. They are also common among people with other allergies or asthma. Regular cleaning and limiting exposure can help manage allergic conditions.

What Causes Cat Allergies?

Most people think cat fur is the reason for the cat allergy. But no, cat allergies are caused by the tiny yet powerful protein called Fel d 1. All cats produce the cat allergen Fel d 1, a significant component in cat allergy, regardless of breed, age, hair length, sex, or body weight. This allergen is found in your cat's saliva, skin, dander (tiny dead skin flakes), and urine. Fel d 1 is very sticky, light in weight, and easily airborne. When your cat grooms itself, it spreads its protein all over the fur. The fur then sheds, floats, and sticks to every surface, making every space of your home an allergen area. And then it eventually finds its way into your lungs like an uninvited guest.

How do Cat Allergies affect you?

When you breathe in or come in contact with the protein found in the cat's saliva, akin flakes and urine, your immune system (if you’re weak or allergic) sees it as a threat and reacts to it. That’s when you get the cat allergy symptoms, which can be mild or severe according to your immunity level. In some cases, prolonged exposure can worsen asthma and cause difficulty breathing, especially in weak individuals.

Did You Know? Each cat’s nose print is unique, much like human fingerprints.

Symptoms of Cat Allergy

If you are a cat parent catching frequent colds and blaming the weather, then you are wrong. This is because you are reacting to your cat.

Cat allergy symptoms can range from moderate to severe, depending on the individual's exposure to allergens and sensitivity. Here are some of the most common symptoms of a cat allergy:

• Sneezing or a runny or stuffy nose.
• Postnasal drip (the feeling of mucus dripping down the back of the nose/throat).
• Facial pain (from nasal congestion).
• Facial swelling (most common around the lips, nose, and eyes).
• Bronchospasm (tight chest/asthma/ wheezy chest/difficulty breathing: only in asthmatics).
• Hives or red patches on the skin.
• Skin rash from cat allergy.
• Skin redness (where a cat has scratched, bitten, or licked you).
• Coughing and wheezing.
• Upset stomach (vomiting, diarrhoea, change in appetite)

Pro Tip: If your allergy symptoms feel more like a severe condition, it might be time to consult an allergy specialist. But doctor visits, tests, and prescriptions can add lots of expenses, especially if allergies trigger asthma or chronic diseases. That’s where reasonable health insurance plans like Care Health Insurance can make a big difference. Their coverage can help reduce the financial burden of diagnosis, treatments, and even ongoing care, so you never get stuck choosing between your health and your pet.

Can You Keep a Cat If You're Allergic?

Yes! Many people with allergies still live happily with their furry cats. They never end their loving bond with their companion. However, you need to make some time and effort to find ways to manage your allergies.

Tips to Control Cat Allergy Symptoms

• Try to keep your pet outside your bedroom, especially at night.
• Use an air filtration system or an air purifier in your home to purify the air from allergens.
• Try to have an allergy test done to determine whether you are allergic to animals.
• Try the cat allergy relief products available online and at pet supply stores. For example, pre-moistened cloths swiftly remove pet dander and loose hair, which might trigger allergic reactions in humans.
• Vacuum your house and furniture with the special vacuum filter that removes dander and other allergens.
• After petting your cuddling partner, don’t touch your face or skin; just wash your hands immediately.
• If your cat tolerates bathing, give the cat a bath using pet wipes and vet-approved waterless shampoos that can help reduce the allergens.
• You can also consult your doctor about allergy shots or medication to control the allergy symptoms.

>> Also Read: What Causes Skin Allergy?

Hypoallergenic Cats: Fluffy Myth or Real Deal

While all cats produce allergens in their fur, saliva, and urine, some breeds known as hypoallergenic cats produce lower levels of the proteins that trigger allergies. No cat can be considered 100% hypoallergenic, but certain breeds like Siberian cats are hypoallergenic and might be a better fit for people who sneeze and itch around kitties.

Fun fact: Female cats produce lower levels of allergens than male cats.

Breeds that may be better for allergy sufferers:

• Siamese Cats
• Bengal Cats
• Russian Blue Cats
• Sphynx Cats
• Devon Rex Cats
• Cornish Rex Cats
• Javanese Cats
• Siberian Cats
• Balinese Cats
• Oriental Shorthair Cats
• Burmese Cats
• Tonkinese Cats

Do you know! According to a recent study by TICA (The International Cat Association), there are 73 cat breeds worldwide.

Source: https://tica.org/ticas-breeds/browse-all-breeds/

Treatments for Cat Allergy

Good news, allergy-prone cat lovers don’t have to choose between sinuses and furry cuddles. Some studies have shown that exposure to pets as a young child decreases your chances of forming pet allergies later. Depending on the cause of your allergies, you can take the preferred cat allergy treatment and live your life happily with your feline friend. Here's how:

Medicines

If your cat's cuddling causes an allergic reaction to cats, you need help! Over-the-counter antihistamines for cats like cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin) can calm cat fur allergy symptoms like itchy eyes and a runny nose. Nasal steroid sprays tackle inflammation directly, while Decongestants offer cat allergy relief from the sinuses. Always consider the healthcare professional before taking any medicines for cat allergy treatment.

Allergy Shots

If your cat allergy looks like a long-term battle, allergy shots are your secret weapon. These injection shots prepare your immune system to stop overreacting to allergens like Fel d 1, the protein that triggers the cat allergy symptoms. It's a slow and steady process (usually takes months), but allergy shots can significantly help many cat lovers.

Home Remedies

If you own a cat, try bathing it yourself. This may reduce the amount of saliva and Fel d 1 you are exposed to. Home remedies for cat allergies can help relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion. To clear out thick mucus and irritants from your sinuses, use a neti pot or a squeeze bottle with a saline rinse. A HEPA air filter in your home can also trap airborne allergens, such as cat dander allergy particles.

Snuggle Smart & Sneeze Less

Can you be a cat lover despite having allergies? Paw-sitively yes! With a pinch of patience, a few clever tips, and a sneeze-savvy treatment, your allergy doesn’t come between you and your fluffy soulmate.

So, cuddle carefully, sneeze softly and cherish every moment with your furry little feline. Remember, a little dander is a small price for all that unconditional love.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.