Cats and dogs are considered to be the most common household pet in the world; hence, they also play a major role in causing allergies indoors.

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

Allergy to cats is relatively common. They can be caused by a variety of allergens found in cat saliva and oils from their sebaceous glands. The effects can be really nasty especially for sensitive people that even petting them could set off an allergic reaction.

The Felis domesticus or Fel d 1, the major cat allergen, is derived from the salivary and sebaceous glands of cats. It is a sticky glycoprotein capable of clinging unto cat’s fur, furniture, surfaces of the home, and human clothing. It may also remain airborne for a long time thus, poor ventilation contributes to the increased levels of the allergen. Fel d 4, another form of the allergen is also present in the urine of cats.

The pathology is similar to other allergic reactions particularly allergic rhinitis which symptoms are mediated by the release of histamine from the degranulation of mast cells. Cat allergy is characterized by

• coughing and sneezing
• runny nose
• watery eyes
• allergic conjunctivitis
• nasal congestion
• urticaria/ hives
• wheezing
• rashes and elevation of the scratched skin
• postnasal drip and chronic sore throat
• chest tightness

What your Doctor can do for you

Just like allergic rhinitis, cat allergy is also managed with antihistamines and nasal sprays. Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for a short duration. Similar with dog allergy, cat allergens could also lead to an asthma attack; thus, the patient may be given with asthma medications like beta agonists and inhaled corticosteroids. The physician may also suggest desensitization/ weekly immunotherapy.

What you can do

Minimizing exposure to the allergen is still the best way to improve the symptoms of a person suffering from cat allergy.  Both dog and cat allergy employs the same avoidance measures.

• Bathing the cat once or twice a week may also reduce the allergen present on the coat.
• The use of vacuum is still questionable whether it will help or contribute to spreading the allergen in the air. To counter this, it is recommended that you use a HEPA filtering device with your air conditioning system/ vacuum cleaner.
• As much as possible, avoid the use of carpets in your home. Be sure to clean carpets and upholstered furniture as often as you can.

Avoid petting, kissing, or playing with the cat. If you can, just keep the cat outside the home especially the bedroom.