Owning and caring for pets is a favorite pastime worldwide. Many people are as close to their pets as they are to the people they are living with in their daily lives. The choice of your pet may depend on where you live, and your own personal preference.
Pets range from many different animals. While some may choose a snake, rabbit, bird or lizard, many prefer the more common pets: dogs and cats.
Due to cat allergies, many do not choose to have a cat, when they may otherwise have liked one. Those who have cat allergies cannot be around cats. Their allergies may be mild to severe, so they need to be certain to be careful when around these animals.
Coping with Cat Allergies
Up to 40% of those who suffer from asthma have cat allergies and are by far more sensitive to these creatures than to dogs.
The problematic element for those with this allergy is a protein found in the skin of the cat and in the saliva of the cat. When the cat licks his fur while cleaning himself, he deposits this protein on his fur.
Thus the reaction in sensitive individuals is by this allergen. The allergen can then produce a reaction-pollen dust mites, and animal dander. The cat hair itself is not the problem; it is the protein in the dander and the saliva. When these allergens become airborne, then the symptoms begin.
Male cats cause more allergic reactions than female cats due to the testosterone increasing in the cat’s glands. This in turn increases the amount of protein. Cat allergens are found mostly in homes where the cats live. This has however also been found in offices and places where animals are not allowed. It is quite sticky and is transmitted by people getting it on their clothing and carrying it from place to place. The protein particles causing cat allergies remain in the air for long periods of time, and those who are sensitive are more likely to have an allergic reaction when entering a room where there are multiple cats.
Wheezing is the most common allergy symptom of cat allergies. This begins immediately upon entering a room with cats. Some symptoms are delayed reactions that can linger for a number of weeks. For those who are continually exposed, chronic asthma can be an ongoing problem. Hives and atopic eczema can also be symptoms of cat allergies. It is best to stay on the safe side, and avoid contact with these animals.