How to Tell If You’re Allergic to Cats and What You Can Do

It is important to note that there are several things you could be allergic to before you assume that you have a cat allergy. For instance, dust mites, or maybe you're suffering from seasonal hay fever? One of the most prevalent allergies in the US is an allergy, especially for people who simultaneously have hay fever or allergic asthma. So, how can you tell whether you have a cat allergy? We’ll answer this question in this pet allergy guide.

“We have investigated pollen, mold, animal dander, and dust mites, and cat dander is by far the smallest dander. This indicates that allergens remain airborne for at least 30 minutes after you disrupt them in the room. This just permits the sensitive patient to have a consistent exposure to that allergen.” — Allergist Dana Wallace, MD.

What causes cat allergies?

Although it's widely believed that cat hair triggers cat allergy symptoms, the reality is more nuanced; the problem lies with what's on the hair. Actually, a protein that is created in a cat's saliva and sebaceous (oil) glands and then transferred to the cat's skin and hair while grooming is what causes cat allergies. The sticky protein that is attached is released into the environment whenever a cat sheds its fur, hair, and dander, which are dead skin cells. This frequently causes your allergy symptoms, such as watery eyes, or sneezing from pets!

Nonetheless, pollen, dust mites, and mold are among the numerous airborne allergens that cat hair can carry and induce allergic reactions in those who have hay fever, asthma, or eczema.

Common symptoms

Many people experience more subtle symptoms, and determining the source of an allergic reaction can be challenging, especially if another item triggers your symptoms [3]. Since every cat produces a different quantity of cat allergens, some people are allergic to some cats but not others. The symptoms include:

• sneezing

• itchy skin

• watering eyes

• coughing

• wheezing

• breathing difficulties

• a flare-up of eczema

• skin rash or hives

Are you allergic to cats? Quick self-check

Do you think you might be allergic to cats? It's crucial to talk to a doctor or other health care provider about your allergy before deciding what to do next. If you suffer from other allergy problems like eczema, rhinitis, or asthma, this is very crucial.

To find out if you have a cat allergy or not, your doctor or other healthcare provider may recommend testing. A blood test or a skin prick test may be used for this. Referrals to allergy specialists may be necessary in some situations.

Home checks vs professional testing

A little blood sample is used in the majority of at-home allergy tests. Everything you need to collect the sample is included in the kit you order. Squeeze a few drops of blood onto the accompanying collection card after pricking your finger with the included lancet, then mail it back to the test business. Kits come with all the necessary supplies and comprehensive instructions.

Your sample or blood will be examined at a lab approved by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) Trusted Source once you submit it or have it drawn. This certification shows that the lab has fulfilled federal and state certification requirements and is subject to routine inspections to guarantee adherence. Board-certified physicians review the tests.

Your medical history and any symptoms you've been having will be discussed when you see an allergist to get an allergy diagnosis. Questions concerning your surroundings, way of life, and any family or personal history of allergies are likely to be asked.

Skin and blood tests can be useful to confirm and explain potential food allergies, but the first step in diagnosing food allergies is a thorough discussion of allergic reactions with an allergist. These tests provide a more detailed and customized perspective than do-it-yourself testing.

Blood tests are carried out if you are unable to undertake a skin test or if you might experience a severe allergic reaction to one. An antibody test is performed in a laboratory using a blood sample. To determine which environmental allergens might be causing your symptoms, skin testing is usually utilized. Analyzing your blood for immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies can also help you determine which environmental allergens are causing you problems.

Ways to fight allergens at home

There are numerous methods to lessen indoor allergens and allergy symptoms so that you and your pet can live together more easily if you are allergic to your pet and your reactions are not life-threatening.

Take these actions to lessen the symptoms if your or a family member's allergies are just unpleasant but not life-threatening:

• Give your pet a weekly bath to lower the amount of dander — shed old skin cells — that causes allergies. Kittens may require a shampoo designed specifically for kittens, but cats might grow accustomed to being bathed, so it's important to use only items that are designated for them. For instructions on how to bathe safely, see your veterinarian's staff or a reputable pet care book. Using a shampoo that your veterinarian or other animal care specialist recommends is a smart option.

It's worthwhile to determine whether you are actually allergic to your pet and, if so, to try these remedies in order to maintain the relationship between you and your cat. Become one of the many animal lovers who successfully manage their allergies and lead fulfilling lives with their cherished pets.

Final Thoughts

Are you looking for additional strategies to confidently handle cat ownership? For professional advice on selecting the ideal breed, designing allergy-friendly spaces, and raising healthy, well-mannered hypoallergenic cats, observe HappyPaws. Our advice enables families to make wise choices so they can enjoy a cat's company more easily and with more peace of mind!

FAQ

Can at-home allergy tests replace an allergist?

At-home kits analyze blood samples to provide basic information, but they are unable to evaluate medical history or lifestyle factors. More thorough tests and individualized guidance are provided by an allergist.

Are cat allergies always caused by fur?

No, a protein called Fel D 1 that is present in dander, skin, and saliva causes the majority of cat allergies. This implies that allergic reactions can occur even in cats without hair, such as the Sphynx.

How do allergists test for cat allergies?

To find sensitivities to allergens connected to cats, they usually employ skin prick or IgE blood tests. These techniques help you determine the kind and severity of your allergy.

Can families with cat allergies still adopt a cat?

Yes, many families can happily coexist with cats if they plan ahead and manage their allergies. Symptoms can be considerably decreased by selecting the proper breed and keeping the surroundings clean.