Allergies to cats: causes and treatments
If you love cats and you suffer from allergies, you know how challenging it can be to live with these furry creatures. Sneezing, itching, and congestion are just a few of the unpleasant symptoms that can make life miserable. In this article, we will explore the causes of cat allergies and the available treatments to help you manage your symptoms.
Causes of cat allergies
When you are exposed to allergens, your immune system reacts by producing histamine, which causes inflammation and the symptoms of an allergic reaction. In the case of cat allergies, the allergen is a protein in the cat's saliva, urine, and dander (dead skin cells) that can become airborne and trigger an allergic response.
Some people are more sensitive to cat allergens than others, and their reactions can vary depending on the amount of exposure. Some of the factors that can increase the severity of an allergic reaction to cats include:
- Spending time with a cat that has not been bathed or groomed recently
- Living in a house with multiple cats
- Having poor indoor air quality or ventilation
- Having pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis
- Being exposed to other allergens, such as pollen or dust mites, which can make your immune system more reactive
Treatments for cat allergies
If you suffer from cat allergies, there are several treatment options available to help alleviate your symptoms. These include:
1. Antihistamines: These medications can help block the histamine that your body produces during an allergic reaction. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) are available, as well as prescription options like fexofenadine (Allegra).
2. Nasal corticosteroids: These nasal sprays can help reduce inflammation and congestion in your nasal passages. Fluticasone (Flonase) and mometasone (Nasonex) are two common options that require a prescription.
3. Immunotherapy: This treatment involves gradually exposing your body to small amounts of the allergen over time, which can help desensitize your immune system and reduce your allergic reactions. Immunotherapy is typically administered as allergy shots or sublingual drops.
4. Limiting exposure: Although it may be difficult, limiting your exposure to cats and their allergens is one of the most effective ways to manage your symptoms. Some ways to reduce your exposure include keeping the cat out of your bedroom, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, and washing your hands and face after petting a cat.
What about hypoallergenic cats?
If you love cats but suffer from allergies, you may have heard of hypoallergenic cats. These breeds are supposedly less likely to trigger allergic reactions, but the reality is more complicated.
While it is true that some cat breeds produce less of the Fel d 1 protein that is responsible for most cat allergies, it is not a guarantee that a hypoallergenic cat will be completely allergy-free. Additionally, many of these breeds still produce other allergens that can cause a reaction.
Some examples of hypoallergenic cat breeds include the Siberian, the Sphynx, and the Balinese. However, if you are considering getting a cat and you have allergies, it is always a good idea to spend time with the cat first to see how you react before making a commitment.
In conclusion, living with cat allergies can be a challenge, but there are treatment options and lifestyle changes that can help you manage your symptoms. If you love cats and want to have them in your life, it is possible to do so without suffering from constant allergic reactions. By working with your doctor and taking steps to reduce your exposure to cat allergens, you can enjoy the companionship of these beautiful creatures without sacrificing your health.