The main cat allergen specifically Fel d 1 is responsible for triggering cat allergy among sensitive individuals. It is found in the saliva of cats, dander from the sebaceous glands in the skin, fur and the anal glands. The other allergens such as albumin are found in the saliva, urine and blood.
Is this a common allergy?
Cat allergy is considered common than allergies to dog dander. It is important to note that this might be linked to the potent nature of cat dander and hair as an allergen as well as the fact that cats are not generally bathed.
The cat allergen is generated in large amounts especially by male, non-neutered cats since the allergen is partly under hormonal control. Take note that the dander is always airborne, sticky and present in public areas even where there are no cats around. This is in line to the fact that the dander is transported on the clothing of those who own cats and then dropped in public places. The allergen is a part of house dust even in houses where cats are not around.
The size of the dander is extremely small and can be inhaled deep within the lungs. The dander is the usual cause of allergic asthma and cat owners who have cat allergy are susceptible to develop asthma symptoms.
Symptom control
Among those who have cat allergy, avoiding cats is the priority. The allergy medications can help manage the symptoms but in most cases, it can persist if the individual owns one or more indoor cats.
Allergy shots are also a suitable treatment measure for those who are allergic to cats. Some owners might not want to separate from their pets, despite the symptoms that they experience. There are measures that can reduce cat allergen exposure for cat owners such as the following:
- Make sure that the cat is neutered.
- The cat must be given a bath at least 1-2 times in a week.
- Wipe the cat using a moist cloth or towel on a daily basis.
- The cat should not be allowed in the bedroom and close the door at all times as well as the air vents to the bedroom.
- Make sure that the cat stays outdoors or in the garage or in an area in the house that does not have carpeted flooring.
- Vacuum on a regular basis using a HEPA-equipped vacuum cleaner.
- A HEPA room air cleaner should be used in the bedroom or in other areas of the house.
- Make sure that avoidance of house dust mite is strictly followed.
If the stated measures are not effective in minimizing the cat allergy symptoms, the only solution is to get rid of the cat especially those who have uncontrolled asthma.
Remember that the cat dander will last for several months up to years in a house even if the cat is already gone. With this in mind, it is vital to perform the following:
- Steam cleaning the carpeting and all upholstered furniture
- Vacuum all hard floors
- Launder or dry clean all curtains and bedding
- Replace any air conditioner as well as heater vent filters
- Wipe down all furniture and hard surfaces