Cat Allergy Dangers

Cat allergies can be extremely bothersome to those who suffer them. According to allergyescape.com, between 6 million and 10 million people in the United States are allergic to cats. The symptoms vary in severity, but only a few are dangerous. Medications can treat and alleviate many cat allergy symptoms.

  1. Symptoms

    • Cat allergies usually affect a person's nose, eyes, ears, throat, lungs and skin. The skin can become red, itchy or develop rashes, hives or raised reddish areas. Other common symptoms include red and itchy eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, stuffy or popping ears, post-nasal drip, hoarse or itchy throat, coughing and wheezing, frequent bronchitis or respiratory problems. The respiratory problems or labored breathing can be dangerous and could result in death. If you suspect you are experiencing breathing problems from a cat allergy, seek a physician's assistance immediately, according to Cat Allergy Cure.

    Causes

    • People experience cat allergies because of the allergens cats give off, mostly through the sweat and saliva glands. Allergens also are found in pet dander--the flakes of skin that fall off cats. These allergen particles are very small and cling to clothing, furniture and skin, and they are breathed in. Most allergen particles are found around a cat's tail, but some are present all over a cat's body, according to Allergyescape.com.
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    Treatment

    • Allergy treatments may be necessary because cat allergies can cause chronic health conditions such as bronchitis and post-nasal drip. Medications and allergy shots can help alleviate symptoms. The first step is to get tested for allergies at a physician's office. Another way to check if you have allergies is to remove your cat from the home for two weeks and thoroughly vacuum all the carpeting and furniture. If the allergies disappear and then return once the cat is back, you mostly likely have a cat allergy, according to Allergyescape.com.

    Considerations

    • Since many people are emotionally tied to their pets and giving them up is not an option, there are other solutions. The cat can live outside with the exception of inclement weather. To deal with the cat when it is inside, vacuum the carpet frequently, limit the pet from sleeping on bedding and wash it often. If you must give up your cat, your veterinarian's office may be able to find a home for it.