Did you know that cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. But contrary to what you might think, it’s not the fur or hair that’s the real problem.
Whether they’re yours, your family’s or your friend’s - living life with cat allergies is difficult.
Photo via Catwatch Newsletter
So, what causes cat allergies?
According to WebMD, people who are “allergic to cats” are really allergic to proteins in the cat’s saliva, urine and dander (its dried flakes of skin).
People with allergies have oversensitive immune systems and their bodies mistake harmless things like cat dander for dangerous invaders and attack them as they would bacteria or viruses.
The symptoms of the allergy are the side effects of your body’s assault on the allergen or trigger.
...which actually explains A LOT!
What are the symptoms of cat allergies?
Symptoms of cat allergy might develop in just a few minutes or take hours to appear. About 20% to 30% of people with allergic asthma have severe flare-ups after coming into contact with a cat.
Symptoms of cat allergies can include:
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Coughing and wheezing
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Hives or a rash on the chest and face
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Red, itchy eyes
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Redness of the skin where a cat has scratched, bitten or licked you
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Runny, itchy stuffy nose
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Sneezing
Photo via My Pet Warehouse
How do I know if I have a cat allergy?
Symptoms of a cat allergy can be fairly obvious, however, it’s not always the cat that causes them. It’s always a good idea to get confirmation from your doctor!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
