Allergies to cats affect at least 6 million people in the US. 0ne-third of this group continue to keep at least one cat. The major cat allergen is a protein called Fel d 1; it is found primarily in the skin and saliva and is secreted by the sebaceous, or oil glands in the skin. The protein can be found in the dander (scales from skin and fur) saliva, salivary glands, mucus, serum, urine of the cat.
How Cat Allergen is Spread
When the cat grooms itself, the saliva dries on its fur, leaving behind the protein allergen, which is then easily and widely distributed by air, because it is very light and small; it is about 10 times smaller than pollen or dust particles, remains airborne for long periods of time, easily sticks to clothing, and is found in the dust of about one-third of homes without cats. Although the allergen can easily be wiped off a smooth surface, such as glass, it will remain in carpets, bedding, clothing, and upholstery for long periods of time.
Although hair length of the cat has been shown to be unrelated to how much allergen is produced, studies show that males produce more than females, non-neutered males more than neutered males, adult cats more than kittens, and dark-colored cats four times more than light-colored cats.
When cat allergen is deposited on the lining of the eyes or nose, it can produce allergic symptoms, such as inflammation, hives, sneezing, tearing, wheezing, and asthma attacks.
Reducing Allergic Symptoms in the Home: For those unwilling to give up the family cat or put it outside, there are some preventive measures that can be taken:
Limit the cat to certain areas of the house; it should not be allowed in the bedroom and other areas with more furniture and fabric.
Replace the carpet with wood or vinyl.
Replace curtains with smoother, easy-to-clean coverings.
Wash the cat at least once weekly.
All floors, furniture, and walls should be regularly mopped, cleaned, vacuumed with a HEPA or comparable filter that prevents release of the allergen into the air.
Air conditioning and heating filters should be replaced regularly.
It can take up to 6 months to reduce the level of allergen in a home.