For people with cat allergies, exposure to furry felines can result in uncomfortable symptoms1. This can make things difficult if there is a cat in a household where you spend lots of time, or you like being around them.
However, there are a variety of things you can do, and treatment options you can try, that may help keep your symptoms in check.
Read on to learn more about what causes cat allergies, cat allergy symptoms, and how to relieve them. We’ll also cover antihistamines for cat allergies too.
In this guide:
What causes cat allergies?
Our immune system works hard every day to protect us. One way it does this is by producing antibodies to combat harmful substances, such as viruses and bacteria2.
When someone has a cat allergy, their immune system mistakes cat saliva, dead skin (known as ‘dander’), fur and urine as a similar threat2. As a result, the immune system creates antibodies to fight these ‘allergens’ – as with other types of allergies2. Breathing in and being exposed to these allergens can therefore trigger an allergic reaction2.
Dander and fur can easily travel through the air, or stick to clothes and upholstery2. That means you don’t need to own a cat or even be near one to encounter these allergens2 – though symptoms will likely be worse if there is direct.
If someone in your family has a pet allergy, this can make it more likely that you’ll have an allergy too1.
Cat allergy symptoms
Cat allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on your level of exposure and sensitivity3.
Signs of a cat allergy can appear within a few minutes, but they can also take a few hours to materialise – this is known as a ‘late phase response’1,3.
Symptoms of cat allergies in adults can include1:
Cat allergy symptoms
Coughing
Red or itchy eyes
Blocked or runny nose
Sneezing
Redness of the skin.
Children with cat allergies will often experience similar symptoms, such as1:
Itchy eyes
Sneezing
A runny nose
Coughing
Throat irritation.
Cat allergy rashes
Cat allergies can sometimes trigger skin reactions (known as ‘allergic dermatitis’), which can result in1:
Hives
Eczema
Itchy Skin
Severe cat allergy symptoms
In some cases, cat allergy symptoms can be more severe. You should call your doctor or seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms1:
Wheezing
Difficulty sleeping
Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing through your nose
How can I test if I have a cat allergy?
You can generally diagnose cat allergies using common skin testing4.
However, some people may not be able to have a skin test due to pre-existing conditions, or their age4. In these cases, it may be possible to get a blood test instead4.
Doctors may also order a blood test for children who struggle with skin testing4.
Skin tests for cat allergies
There are two types of skin allergy tests that can diagnose a cat allergy4.
Skin prick test – The doctor pricks the skin of the forearm or back, and places a small number of allergens on the area. If red, itchy bumps form on the skin, it likely indicates an allergy 4.
Intradermal skin testing – The doctor injects a small amount of allergen into the arm and observes the area for a reaction. This test can be more sensitive for detecting allergy results4.
Blood tests for cat allergies
In instances where a skin test is not practical or possible, the doctor may order a blood test – where you will have a blood sample taken at the GP surgery, clinic or hospital. The blood is then sent for analysis4.
Specialists will examine the blood for antibodies to allergens such as cat fur and dander. There is no risk of an allergic reaction with a blood test, but results can take longer4.
How to reduce cat allergies
The best way to avoid cat allergies flaring up is to avoid cat allergens – and cats – altogether!1.
Of course, if you or your family has a cat, or you are around cats often, we understand this isn’t always possible.
The good news is, there are various things you can try that may help ease cat allergies1:
Wash your hands – Washing your hands with soap and water after petting a cat is absolutely recommended.
Use HEPA air filters – HEPA air filters can help prevent cat dander and other allergens from circulating in the home.
Groom the cat often – Brushing a cat may help reduce symptoms in those around them.
Create ‘cat-free’ zones – Limiting a cat to certain areas of the house can help lower the chances of cat allergens spreading. For example, keep them out of your bedroom to prevent cat fur from sticking to the duvet.
Keep your distance – This might be difficult if you enjoy being around your favourite feline, or one has taken a particular shine to you, but try to keep your distance from a family cat where possible. You could make sure you are minimizing contact with them and their things at least. For example, ask someone else to help empty the litter tray.
Clean regularly – Sweep, vacuum and mop your floors and upholstery often to catch any allergens.
The following tips can also reduce the risk of you experiencing cat allergy symptoms1:Be cautious of visitors who have cats at home – Even if they’re not bringing the cat with them, visitors could bring cat allergens into your home via their clothing and bags.
Protect yourself – Wearing a face mask or sunglasses around cats can prevent allergens from reaching your mouth or eyes.
Plan ahead – Before visiting friends and family with cats at home, ask if they can keep the cats out of the room during your visit. Taking allergy medication can help ease symptoms when they do occur, so having this to hand is also sensible.
Cat allergy treatment options
Various different treatment options are available if you suffer from cat allergies, including:
Antihistamines – Over the counter (OTC) antihistamines can provide effective relief from cat allergy symptoms. BENADRYL® Allergy Relief Plus Decongestant, for example, contains a quick-acting antihistamine (acrivastine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) for effective nasal relief.
Allergy relief nasal sprays – Products such as BENADRYL® Allergy Natural Relief Nasal Spray can provide welcome congestion relief by washing away irritants. This helps to unblock your nose and ease allergy symptoms.
Nasal irrigation – This home treatment involves rinsing the nasal passages with saline solution. This can flush out allergens and reduce congestion, which may make breathing easier5.
Cat allergies: FAQs
You can reduce cat allergies naturally by avoiding allergens and cats as much as possible1. It’s also useful to wear a face mask when around cats, and wash your hands with soap and water if you touch them1. Taking steps to reduce the circulation of allergens in your home, such as regularly vacuuming in dusting, can also help alleviate cat allergy symptoms5.
Cat allergy symptoms will often settle within a few hours, if you avoid repeated contact with the cat or cat allergens6. For more severe allergies, symptoms can last for up to three days6. If you experience a severe allergic reaction to a cat, consult your doctor or seek medical attention immediately1.
Severe cat allergy symptoms can include wheezing, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath1. People with severe cat allergies may also have trouble sleeping1. If you or another person experiences difficulty breathing, be sure to seek emergency medical attention by phoning 999.
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