Symptoms of Allergies to Cat Dander

Allergy sufferers who experience symptoms when exposed to cats may assume that the fur is triggering the reaction. In fact, the problem is not the fur, but a substance that lingers in it. Cats are constantly shedding skin cells, which accumulate and form allergy-triggering flakes called dander. Dander is small, lightweight and easily transported throughout the environment. It floats in the air, accumulates on carpet and bedding and sticks to clothing. It can easily enter the body through the nose, mouth or eyes, causing instant reactions in allergy sufferers. If you are allergic to cat dander and are exposed to it, several symptoms may appear.

Respiratory Symptoms

• Respiratory symptoms are the most common indication of an allergy to cat dander. Your nose may become runny and congested. You may start sneezing and coughing uncontrollably. Your throat will often itch and feel sore. These symptoms may become more severe if your exposure to dander is prolonged.

Skin Reactions

• Exposure to cat dander can cause visible skin symptoms. You may develop hives that look like red raised patches of bumps on your face, arms, chest or legs. The hives may itch and multiply over the surface area. Your eyes may start to itch and become red, swollen and watery. These symptoms may develop right away or after a few hours, depending on your exposure levels to the dander. If a cat is near you, the reaction may be instant.

Asthma

• According to the medical website WebMD, 20 to 30 percent of people with asthma display severe reactions after being exposed to a cat. If you have asthma, cat dander can cause symptoms such as tightness in the chest, wheezing and trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms in an area where a cat is or was present, you may need to leave the area. If your symptoms persist, washing your clothes and hair to remove any dander debris may help.