Signs & Symptoms of a Cat Allergy

Pets are wonderful companions and offer friendships that can last for years. Unfortunately, as much as we may love our pets, many of us can have undesirable side effects such as allergies. According to the Humane Society of the United States, it is estimated that fifteen percent of pet owners are allergic to their pets. In some cases, cats may cause more allergies in people than dogs. Surprisingly, even hairless breeds of animals can still cause allergic responses. Due to the glands in the pet's skin that create allergens, pet owners end up suffering when these allergens are secreted through saliva, urine, or become airborne.

Eyes

• Your eyes may become inflamed. You may notice that your eyes are red, or red under the lids. Sometimes they may swell and even become watery. You may also become uncomfortable when they become overly itchy.

Allergic Rhinitis

• This occurs when pet dander gets transmitted into the air, and you inhale it. Usually your nose (the inside lining and membranes), throat, and ears are affected. You may have a runny nose or your nose may become stuffy. You may sneeze a lot, have an itchy nose, and your ears and throat will itch as well.

Rash and Hives

• Your skin may respond by breaking out in a rash or hives. A rash will appear as red, itchy bumps that can occur all over your body. Hives are swellings that are raised on the skin, almost to the point that they look like small welts. The itching that is accompanied by hives may also be severe.

Asthma and Allergies

• Allergy-induced asthma occurs when your asthma is triggered by pet dander. The allergic reaction caused by pet dander can lead to asthma attacks, including coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it may feel as if your chest is tightening.

Allergic Response

• If you allow a cat to lick, bite, or scratch your skin, you may notice that your skin will become red and itchy. It may take only a few minutes for symptoms to occur. However, symptoms can also happen a few hours after coming into contact with a cat.

Treatment

• Cats have a specific protein known as Feld1, which irritates the human immune system. Even though there are hairless breeds of cats, they still produce dander and allergens. If you still wish to have a cat as a pet, it may be necessary to be put on medications, such as antihistamines to control allergies, or medications such as Singulair, which helps with symptoms associated with both asthma and allergies.