Hives and Cat Allergies

Cats can make great house pets, but they can also stir up allergies in your home. Allergens located in a cat's skin can become airborne through saliva, urine or when the animal sheds. It's good to be able to identify cat allergy symptoms and determine whether you are affected.

  1. Eye Symptoms

    • The whites of the eyes or under the lids may become red and inflamed. Occasionally, the eyes may swell up and become watery. Extreme itchiness is also a possibility.

    Allergic Rhinitis

    • Allergic rhinitis occurs when you inhale pet dander. The inside of your nose plus your throat and ears can become inflamed. Common symptoms are a stuffed up or runny nose and increased sneezing.

    Hives and Rash

    • Your skin may develop a rash or hives. A rash is small, red, itchy bumps that can appear all over your body. Hives are large, pink, raised welts on the skin that typically itch much worse than a rash. Hives and a rash can also be triggered by an allergic response to a cat scratching, touching or licking your skin.

    Asthma and Allergies

    • Pet dander can cause allergy-induced asthma or in severe cases trigger an asthma attack. The symptoms can include persistent coughing and wheezing.

    Treatment

    • Antihistamines can help manage allergy symptoms. If you must live with a cat in your home, limit contact as much as possible. The cat should not be allowed in the bedroom or primary living quarters. Vacuum and clean often.