A lot of people falsely believe that cat allergy is caused mainly by cat fur. However, the cat dander allergy is the most frequent among pet owners. This means that hairless cats may produce allergies in people also, because dander is the main allergen.
What Is Cat Dander?
Cat dander is formed on the pet's skin and is shed through the coat. People are allergic to a certain protein that is present in the cat dander. The same protein is present in the cat's saliva also. These allergens are airborne and when inhaled, cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. Cat dander may stick easily to clothes, rugs or couches and may resist for up to 6 months in a household, even after the cat is gone.
Cat Dander Allergy Symptoms
The most frequent allergy symptoms caused by cat dander are: skin rashes, sneezing, itchy eyes, itchy skin and runny nose. In some cases, cat dander can cause asthma episodes and even chronic asthma. Cat allergies can be very unpleasant, so it is important to take a few precautionary measures to avoid these symptoms as much as possible. The best way to avoid allergies is to keep away from cats, however for pet owners this is not an option.
Though allergies to pets cannot be cured, there are many ways to relieve and prevent the allergies.
Anti-Histamine Medications
The most frequent treatment for allergies is the administration of anti-histamines. In severe cases, steroids may be required.
Frequent Cleaning to Minimize Dander
Cleaning your home may be a great way to minimize the intensity of the cat dander allergies. Make sure to clean every corner of your house and thoroughly vacuum all the rugs, drapes and couches in the home.
Given that cat dander lands on pillows, couches, rugs, carpets and drapes, you can opt for a home with no carpets and a limited number of pillows.
Have a Cat-Free Zone
You can also limit your cat's access to your bedroom, so that you will have an allergen-free environment in the room in which you spend a lot of time. Lock the bedroom's door when you are not at home and your cat will not have the chance to shed dander in the bedroom.
You also have the option of allergy relief bedding.
Give Your Cat Baths
Giving your cat a bath at least once a week can reduce the shedding of allergens by as much as 90%. Even if your cat doesn't like taking baths, you will need to make a custom out of this, so as to keep your allergies under control. Use a special cat shampoo to clean the dander. You will be able to find this shampoo in pet stores.