Cat Allergies Making You MEOW?

by Dorothy Medlum

A favorite pastime worldwide is owning and caring for pets. Many grow close to their pets and consider them a family member. Choosing a pet depends on many factors. Where are you going to live, how much space do you have available, what kind of climate do you have, and finally, what are your personal likes and 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 who would like to have a cat cannot and do not. Cat allergies can range from mild to severe, so it is most important to take special precaution when being around these particular pets.

Coping with Cat Allergies

Forty percent of people who suffer from asthma also have cat allergies and are much more sensitive to these creatures than to dogs.

A protein found in the cat’s skin and saliva is the major problem for this allergy. When the cat licks his fun to clean himself, he deposits this protein onto his fur. Therefore this causes the reaction in sensitive people.

An allergen can promote a reaction-dust mites, pollen, and animal dander. The cat hair itself is not the cause of the reaction, but it is the protein in the dander and the saliva. When the allergens are airborne, the symptoms begin.

This allergen has been found in offices and places where animals are not allowed. But how? The allergen is very sticky and can be carried on clothing from place to place. The protein causing the cat allergy remains in the air for long periods of time, therefore; those who are most sensitive are more likely to have an allergic reaction upon entering a room where there are many 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.

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This entry was posted on Sunday, September 28th, 2008 and is filed under Alternative Medicine. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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