Recently we celebrated International Cat Day (August 8th), a time to honour our feline companions and all the joy, comfort and entertainment they bring into our lives. But while the internet is full of adorable cat photos and heartwarming stories, there is a lesser-known reality for some cat owners: their beloved pet might actually be making them feel unwell.
When Pet Love Meets Pet Allergies
In the UK, we are a nation of animal lovers, and for many households a pet is a much-loved member of the family. However, if you are one of the estimated one in five people affected by pet allergies, being around cats – or even just entering a home that has one – can trigger a range of uncomfortable and sometimes serious symptoms.
- Typical signs of a pet allergy include:
- Sneezing and a runny or blocked nose
- Itchy, red or watery eyes
- Swelling around the eyes or face
- Skin rashes or hives
- Coughing, wheezing or tightness in the chest
- Worsening eczema or flare-ups of other skin conditions
These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may significantly impact daily life and wellbeing, particularly in people with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or eczema.
What Actually Causes A Cat Allergy?
Contrary to popular belief, it is not usually the fur itself that causes the allergic reaction. Most people are allergic to proteins found in an animal’s saliva, urine and skin flakes – also known as dander.
Cats, in particular, groom themselves often. This spreads saliva onto their fur, which dries and then flakes off into the air and onto household surfaces. These allergens can linger in the environment for months, even after the animal is no longer present, which means reactions can continue long after initial exposure.
Are Some Cats Hypoallergenic?
You may have heard of certain cat breeds being labelled as hypoallergenic, but unfortunately there is no such thing as a completely allergy-free cat. Some breeds may produce fewer allergens or shed less fur, which can reduce symptoms for some individuals, but most people with cat allergies will still react to these breeds to some degree.
Balancing Pet Ownership with Health
Choosing to live with a cat when you have a pet allergy can be a difficult decision. Many people find that the emotional and mental health benefits of owning a cat outweigh the discomfort of mild allergy symptoms. However, for those with more severe reactions – particularly if asthma is involved – keeping a pet in the home could lead to more serious health issues.
Signs that the situation might be more serious include needing increasing doses of asthma medication, regular steroid treatments or even hospital visits. In these cases, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional.
Managing a Pet Allergy at Home
If you want to continue living with your cat despite having an allergy, there are steps you can take to help reduce symptoms:
- Keep pets out of the bedroom and off beds or sofas
- Wash your cat regularly with an anti-allergy shampoo (check what is safe for cats first)
- Vacuum frequently using a hoover with a HEPA filter
- Use damp dusting techniques to minimise allergens
- Consider an air purifier to reduce airborne allergens
These steps will not remove allergens completely but can help lower the levels in your home.
Medical Treatment Options
If lifestyle adjustments are not enough, there are several treatment options available to help you manage the symptoms of pet allergies:
- Saline nasal rinses to help clear allergens from the nasal passages
- Daily antihistamine tablets to reduce sneezing and itching
- Steroid nasal sprays to ease inflammation
- Anti-allergy eye drops to soothe irritated eyes
In more persistent or severe cases, immunotherapy might be recommended. This involves taking daily drops or sprays that gradually train the immune system to become less sensitive to allergens. Immunotherapy is typically a long-term treatment, often taken over three years, but it can offer lasting relief for those with allergies to cats, dogs or horses.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If you think your cat – or another pet – might be triggering your allergy symptoms, it is worth speaking to a healthcare provider. They may recommend allergy testing to identify the specific trigger and offer advice on treatment and next steps.
In Summary: International Cat Day & Pet Allergy
Owning a pet does not always have to mean constant discomfort. With the right advice, treatment and home environment, many people with pet allergies can continue to enjoy the love and companionship of their cats while keeping symptoms under control.
So this International Cat Day, let us acknowledge not just how wonderful cats are, but also the efforts many people go through to keep their beloved companions close – even when they make them sneeze.
If you would like to explore allergy testing or discuss treatment options, please get in touch.
