Depending on how you look at it, cats are either the number one or number two most popular pet in the United States (#1 if you go by the number of cats or #2 if you go by the number of cat households). It’s amazing that such a loved animal can cause such physical discomfort for so many people in the form of allergies. Literally millions of Americans are allergic to cats.
It’s not the fur of the cat that most people are allergic to, but the dander. A cat’s dander is like a human’s dandruff — flakes of dry skin that are shed by the body. People that are allergic suffer symptoms that range from watery eyes and runny nose to splotchy red skin and itching. For those that are severely allergic, it can be extremely unpleasant.
Once an allergic person is exposed to cat dander, or sometimes cat saliva or urine, the reaction usually begins quickly. The cat doesn’t even have to be physically nearby. Just the particles in the air or on carpet or furniture can be enough.
Ironically, cats are extremely clean animals that groom themselves constantly. watching a cat clean its face, is fascinating. They lick their paw and rub their heads over and over, presumably until they feel the job is done. Then they use their tongues directly to clean the rest of their bodies. Unfortunately, what is cleanliness for the cat spreads dander and other allergens everywhere wreaking havoc if you are an allergy sufferer.
It’s not a pretty site when the effects of a cat allergy creep up. Wheezing, sneezing, itching, coughing… It’s bad enough when it’s a visitor to your home who has to deal with this discomfort. But what if you have discovered that you are allergic?
Most people who experience cat allergies can get some relief with the help of decongestant medications and histamine blockers. Sometimes allergy specialists will give a series of injections that help those who are allergic avoid reactions in the first place. For some people this can be quite effective and eliminate any reaction from occurring.
If you notice you are having symptoms that could be a cat allergy, start by seeing a doctor. If you are allergic, your physician will present the alternatives. Try what is suggested and hope for the best. If you do not get relief, unfortunately, sometimes the only truly effective treatment is finding a new home for the cat. As difficult as this can be, it’s usually for the best.
Although it’s not that common, sometimes people who previously had no cat allergies develop them later in life. This can be difficult when you’ve grown attached to your cat. But if antihistamines or other treatments aren’t effective, getting the cat out of the house followed by a thorough cleaning and even some subsequent air filtration in your home may be the only truly viable solution. Perhaps there is consolation in the fact that having a cat allergy does not necessarily mean you will be allergic to dogs.
Marc Jeffrey Davis is a writer and entrepreneur who’s living the good life and doing his best to share it. His latest website is BestAirPurifierReview.com. Get tips on how to find the Best Air Purifier for your home.
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