Allergy to Cat Saliva

Humans who are allergic to cats are usually allergic to their saliva. It turns into dander after being dried and spreads from cats, to humans, clothes, furniture, everything cats come in contact with.

  1. Causes

    • Cat saliva contains an allergen called Fel d 1, a protein found in hair, dander and saliva. When a cat washes herself, saliva settles on her fur and dries into dander which comes off when she moves.

    How Common is it?

    • More people are allergic to cats than dogs.

      Out of 43 individuals with a history of cat allergy, 37 1/2 percent have an allergy to saliva. Cat allergies are more common than dog allergies, occurring in 25 percent of the people with allergies.

    Warning Signs

    • Congestion can be a symptom of an allergic reaction.

      Sneezing, congestion, itchy rashes, hives, swelling/reddening of your eyes. The symptoms may be more noticeable if your cat sleeps with you. Never let your doctor assume you have a cat allergy just because you have a cat and asthma. Allergy tests are the only effective way of finding out.

    Cat-Scratch Disease

    • Cat-scratch disease is an infection caused by bacteria in a cat's saliva that's passed from cats to humans by biting, licking and scratching. Cats get bacteria from fleas and ticks. Wash your hands after handling you cat, and whenever you get a bite or scratch.

    Protecting Yourself

    • Allergies can be treated with shots.

      Allergy medications help control mild symptoms. Immunotherapy is the most effective way, gradually make a person more resistant to the allergens, treating the cause and not hiding the symptoms.