Veterinary Scientist Explains Myths Related To Cat Allergies

Cats are great pets but people who are prone to allergies must know that cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. It is claimed that 1 out of 5 people has a risk of allergic response to cats.

Besides this, you don't have to be worried as most of the things you have heard about cat allergies might be nothing more than mere myths. Do you want to know the reality behind these myths about cat allergies? And can you still get a cat allergy?

Keep on reading to know what's fact and what's fiction about cat allergies!

Myth#1: People Are Allergic to Cat Hair

This might sound convincing but the actual truth is that people are allergic to the substances on cat hair rather than hair themselves.

Many people are allergic to a protein called Fel d1 that is produced in the glands of cat mostly from sebaceous and salivary glands.

So, the cat allergy from hair is actually from this protein.  When cats groom themselves, they transfer this allergen from their sliva to their hair. Sebaceous glands are close to the skin and can secrete onto the hair follicles. When you pet a cat's fur, a reaction is set off, especially if you then rub your nose or eyes.

Myth#2: There are Hypoallergenic Cats

There is no evidence for cats of a specific breeds being hypoallergenic. However, if some breeds have less hair, or shed less hair, this may reduce exposure to allergens in the environment.

For instance, Sphynx cats lack hair but nevertheless create Fel d 1. As a result, some breeds may be deemed "hypoallergenic," or less likely to induce allergy responses. There are no empirical studies that support this, though.

All cats generate Fel d 1, yet individual cats' levels can vary by up to 100 times. This may help to explain why certain cats seem to cause more of a reaction in persons with cat allergies than others.

Myth #3: Re-Homing Cat With Allergy

Finding a new home may be the only option if you have a serious allergy to your cat. However, most people may successfully control the symptoms.

You can perform the following things to control reactions:

• Always wash your hands after handling your cat, and keep your hands away from your face and eyes.
• To lessen dander, often replace the litter and clean surfaces.
• If your cat enjoys getting a bath, wash it once a week with shampoo, especially for pets.
• Keep cats out of areas you wish to keep allergy-free, such as your bedroom.
• Acquire a vacuum that is specially made to reduce allergens, such as one with a HEPA filter.
• Make use of HEPA filter air purifiers.