Can you enjoy a life with cats despite allergies? The best tips for cat allergy sufferers

Itchy eyes, runny nose and rashes: The symptoms of a cat allergy are annoying and restrict your quality of life. Cat lovers are particularly hard hit by the discomfort brought about by contact with these fluffy feline friends. But have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a cat despite being allergic to cat hair? Or did you develop allergies only after a cat moved in? 

The good news is that it is also possible for allergy sufferers to live alongside cats! In this article, you will find out how you can lead a symptom-free life with a cat even if you are allergic, and which cats are particularly suitable for minimising the symptoms of a cat allergy.

What is a cat allergy?

A cat allergy is usually triggered by the protein ‘Fel d 1,’ which is found in the skin, hair and saliva of cats. If this protein gets into the air and is inhaled by an allergy sufferer, they may experience reactions such as sneezing, watery eyes or even breathing difficulties. 

How does a cat allergy develop?

Allergies are unpredictable. They can occur at any stage in life and without warning. There is evidence that early contact with cats in childhood can reduce the risk of developing allergies later in life. However, intensive research is still being carried out into the exact factors that cause allergies.

But what we do know is that cat allergies occur when a person's immune system mistakenly recognises a harmless protein as a threat. In cats, the most common allergen is the Fel d 1 protein, which is found in the skin cells, saliva and glandular secretions of cats. When a cat grooms itself, it spreads this protein over its fur and it is then released into the environment as part of its dander and hair. As soon as this allergen enters the airways of someone who is allergic, the immune system identifies it as harmful and triggers a defence reaction. This reaction leads to the release of histamine and other messenger substances that cause the typical symptoms of an allergy.

How can allergy sufferers live alongside cats?

Fortunately, there are many measures you can take to alleviate your allergy symptoms. Here's how you can still enjoy life with a cat:

• The right cat breed: Some cat breeds are considered ‘hypoallergenic’ because they produce fewer allergenic proteins. These include the Siberian cat, the Balinese or the Cornish Rex and the Devon Rex. These breeds can be a good choice for people with a cat allergy, but they are not 100% ‘allergen-free’ either. 

• Thorough cleaning: Keep your home meticulously clean and dust-free. Regular vacuuming and mopping can help to reduce the allergens floating around.

• Cat care: Regular brushing (preferably carried out by someone without allergies) can help to reduce the allergens in your cat's fur. In exceptional cases – and if your cat allows it – bathing can also help. 

• Cleaning the cat bed: The cat's bed can be a collection point for hair and allergens. Wash it regularly and thoroughly!

• Air purifier: An air purifier with a HEPA filter can effectively help to clean the air of allergens.

• Limit the access areas: Keep the cat out of your bedroom to create an allergen-free space where you can relax.

• Allergy treatments: Talk to your doctor about possible allergy treatments such as antihistamines or even allergy immunotherapy.

Cats for allergy sufferers - is there such a thing? 

There is considerable variation in the amount of Fel d 1 protein (which is usually the cause of the allergy) produced among different cats. Male cats that are not neutered usually produce more of this allergen than female or neutered male cats. If you are considering keeping a cat as someone with allergies, there are also some breeds that are considered suitable for allergy sufferers. These are often labelled as ‘hypoallergenic’. It is important to know that there are no cat breeds that are 100% allergy-free. 

A selection of suitable cat breeds for people with allergies: 

Hypoallergenic cats can be a good option for allergy sufferers who don't want to say goodbye to the company of cats. Although ‘hypoallergenic’ is not synonymous with ‘allergen-free’, these breeds can help to make living with cats more tolerable for allergy sufferers.

The following breeds, among others, are considered suitable for allergy sufferers: 

• Siberian cat
  The Siberian cat produces less Fel d 1 protein and is known for its social and friendly nature.

• Balinese
  Although long-haired, Balinese are known to produce less Fel d 1, making them a surprisingly good choice for allergy sufferers.

• Cornish Rex and Devon Rex
  These breeds have less hair and produce fewer allergens, which makes them ideal for households with allergies.

• Oriental Shorthair
  They also produce less Fel d 1 and are popular cohabitants due to their lively and playful nature.

• Russian Blue
  This breed has a dense, short coat that sheds less dander, and it is also known for its calm and clean behaviour.

Conclusion 

There is no doubt that a cat allergy is a major challenge for all cat lovers. But it doesn't mean that you have to do without the joy that a cat brings to your life. By taking the right measures and choosing a suitable cat breed, you can minimise your allergy symptoms and lead a happy life with your feline friend.

Tip: We recommend that you speak to a doctor or allergy expert before adding a cat to your household if you suffer from allergies. This allows you to clarify the parameters for a healthy and happy life together in advance, and then decide whether you can maintain them for you and your cat in the long term.