Understanding Cat Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

An allergic reaction to proteins in cat saliva, dander, or urine, causing symptoms like sneezing and itching.
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Health | Allergies | Pets | Cat Dander Allergy | Pet Allergies | Allergy Relief | Living With Cats
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Cat Allergies FAQ


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What is a cat allergy?

People with cat allergies react to specific substances that cats produce, such as saliva, skin flakes called dander, or urine. The substances that cause these reactions are called allergens. A cat allergy can cause symptoms ranging from mild respiratory problems to a life-threatening syndrome called anaphylaxis.

What causes cat allergies?

Cat allergies are triggered by cat hair, skin, saliva, sweat, urine, blood, and dander. Cat dander is a tiny material shed by cats. The dander is airborne and sticky. The size of the cat dander particles is extremely small and it is inhaled deep into the lungs.

What are the most common allergies in cats?

If your cat has allergies, some of the most common allergic reactions in cats cause the following behaviors, conditions, and symptoms: There are 4 common allergies in cats: environmental, fleas, food, and seasonal. This section elaborates these types of allergies and the different ways in which they may affect your cat. Environmental allergies.

When does a cat have a skin allergy?

This type of skin allergy will usually be evident by the time your cat is five years old. While food allergies in cats haven’t been that well researched yet, common allergens include chicken, dairy, fish and beef. Cats with skin allergies may show some or all of these symptoms:

What are the symptoms of a cat allergy?

Allergic symptoms of cat allergy can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending upon the individual’s sensitivity and level of exposure. They can start within minutes of exposure or can be delayed (late phase response) and include: Postnasal drip (the feeling of mucous dripping down the back of the nose/throat)

What is cat allergy?

Cat allergy is an abnormal response of the human body’s immune system to allergens produced in the salivary glands (mouth) and sebaceous glands in the skin of a cat. The human body produces specific immunoglobulin to the cat allergen (called specific IgE).

What if my cat has a food allergy?

If the allergen can be identified, then immunotherapy may be offered. This involves injecting an allergy vaccine, to help reduce symptoms. Medicated baths may also help soothe irritated skin. If food allergies are suspected, your vet may recommend a hydrolysed (thus low-allergen) diet, or a limited-ingredient diet, for your cat.

Cat Allergies References

If you want to know more about Cat Allergies, consider exploring links below:

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