Living with a cat allergy: Tips for cat owners

30th August 2024

Living with a cat allergy: Tips for cat owners

Imagine coming home after a long day, eager to relax with your cat, only to find yourself sneezing with itchy eyes and a runny nose. This is the reality for many cat owners who live with allergies. 

For some, the joy of having a feisty feline seems overshadowed by the discomfort of allergic reactions. However, living with a cat allergy doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up your beloved pet. With the right approach and strategies, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy the companionship of your furry friend.

The first step is to recognise the signs of a cat allergy. You might experience sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or even difficulty breathing when around cats. The best way to confirm if you have a cat allergy is to get tested. 

Once you have a clear diagnosis, you can begin implementing effective strategies to reduce allergen exposure and create allergy-friendly spaces in your home. Here’s everything you need to know about your potential cat allergy.

Cat breeds and allergen levels: Are hypoallergenic cats real?

The concept of hypoallergenic cat breeds is often misunderstood. No cat breed is entirely hypoallergenic, but some breeds produce fewer allergens than others. It’s important to understand what actually causes allergic reactions:

• Fel d 1 Protein:
  • Source of allergens: The primary allergen, Fel d 1, is a protein found in cat saliva, skin, and sebaceous glands. When cats groom themselves, this protein spreads to their fur and skin and eventually becomes airborne as dander.
• Breeds that produce fewer allergens:
  • Siberian: Some studies suggest that Siberian cats produce lower levels of Fel d 1.
  • Balinese: Known for producing fewer allergens compared to other breeds.
  • Oriental Shorthair: These cats shed less fur, potentially reducing allergen spread.
  • Devon Rex and Cornish Rex: With their unique coats, these breeds may produce fewer allergens.

While these breeds may produce fewer allergens, individual reactions can vary. It’s crucial to spend time with a cat before deciding to bring them home to see how you react.

Strategies for reducing allergen exposure in the home

Managing cat allergies starts with reducing the presence of allergens in your home. Here are some effective strategies:

• Hoover regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture dander and hair.
• Wash bedding and soft furnishings: Frequently clean your cat’s bedding, your own bedding, and any other fabric surfaces.
• Dust and wipe surfaces: Regularly dust and wipe down surfaces to remove allergens.
• Use air purifiers: Place air purifiers in key areas to reduce airborne allergens.
• Ventilate your home: Open windows and use exhaust fans to improve air circulation.
• Regularly bathe your cat: Bathing your cat once a week can reduce dander, though it’s essential to use cat-safe products and consult with your vet. Regular brushing can help reduce shedding and dander.
• Have cat-free zones: Perhaps you can keep your bedroom a cat-free zone to reduce allergens where you sleep.

• Use allergy-resistant materials around the home: Use washable covers for furniture and cushions so it’s easier to remove and clean as part of your ongoing routine. Consider hard flooring like tile or wood, which is easier to clean than carpet.
• Designated cat areas: Keep litter boxes in well-ventilated, low-traffic areas. Provide comfortable beds for your cat in designated areas to encourage them to stay there.

Take control of your cat allergy

Living with a cat allergy requires careful management, but it doesn’t mean you have to live without your furry friend. Implementing the strategies mentioned above can significantly reduce allergen exposure and improve your quality of life.

If you suspect you have a cat allergy, getting tested is a crucial step. Understanding your allergy status can help you take necessary precautions and avoid severe reactions. Our comprehensive allergy testing kit offers a simple, accurate, and convenient way to determine if cat allergens are affecting your health. Why not register as a new patient or take one of our home allergy tests today? You’re home can stay your safe space.

Allergic to cats? Which breed you should buy

4th June 2018

Allergic to cats? Which breed you should buy

Are you allergic to cats? You’re not alone. Despite large numbers of people experiencing allergy symptoms, cats are still one of the most beloved and common pets across the world, second only to dogs. However, there are some breeds out there that cause more allergy symptoms than others. Contrary to popular belief, the most common cause of cat allergies is not down to the hair. Allergic reactions caused by cats usually comes down to one of two glycoproteins. Fel d 1, secreted through the cat’s skin; and Fel d 4, which is found in the saliva.

So when choosing your new feline friend, here are some breeds to bear in mind.

Sphynx

Famous for its hairlessness, the Sphynx is one of the best hypoallergenic breeds out there. With no fur for Fel d 1 to get caught up in, the Sphynx is a perfect choice. It requires a weekly sponge bath to prevent a build-up of oils on the skin.

Siberian

Despite its long coat, Siberians have been noted to produce less Fel d 1 than many other breeds. The Siberian will need plenty of brushing to ensure no excess fur gets trapped, reducing the amount of Fel d 1 present.

Balinese

Like the Siberian, the Balinese produces less Fel d 1 than average. Their coats are not as long as the Siberian, meaning less dander. Though it’s always essential to stay on top of grooming when it comes to allergies.

Cornish Rex

Cat hair is often triple-layered. The Cornish Rex only has the lowest layer meaning they have less hair to shed. This means there is less Fel d 1 scattered about your home, though the Cornish Rex grooms itself just as much as any other breed, so take care with this one!

Devon Rex

A more allergy-friendly breed than its close relative, the Cornish Rex. The Devon Rex has a similar coat to its Cornish cousin, but it’s even shorter. It even sheds less than other breeds do.

Bonus: No matter what breed you choose, females produce less of either glycoprotein.

At the end of the day, the breed of your cat can only do so much to alleviate allergy symptoms. Constant maintenance goes a long way. A regular grooming routine will ease the experience of brushing and bathing your cat. Vacuuming your home and keeping your cat out of your bedroom will also do wonders. Finally, ALWAYS wash your hands after contact with your cat.

If you are allergic to cats, there are desensitisation options available to you. London Allergy and Immunology Centre’s specialist consultants can talk you through the information you need to understand your options when it comes to treating your allergies. Book an appointment with us today to take the first steps towards living with your pet allergy-symptom free.