About the most loved pet in the world is a cat. They are great pets and very many households have one or more. The drawback is that cat allergies are one of the most widespread forms of allergies. Statistics have shown this, and cat allergies are something we could all do without.

Dander, produced by the cat, causes the allergies. Dander is shed skin that comes off cats, usually as small flakes. It can irritate your skin, but worse, get into your immune system, leading to a number of symptoms and allergic reactions. Your body perceives dander, once in your immune system, as a threat and though not classified as a disease, it is felt as a reflex by your body. Cats have allergens spread throughout their saliva, blood and urine and these excretions can remain active even if the cat is no longer present.

Cats groom themselves, rubbing their saliva into their fur, and doing this spread their dander and allergens around. The home of a cat owner will therefore be host to the dander whatever is done. Cats' natural instinct is to groom and even bathing them, would not stop the grooming.

People react differently to cat allergens so that diagnosing the allergy is difficult. However, generally when someone is allergic he will sneeze, cough, itch, have watering eyes or find it difficult to breathe. Fever or chills are more rare but if at all anxious consult a doctor.

Treatment is usually antihistamines and decongestants. The decongestants will help with swollen nasal passages and coughs. Those suffering from asthma would probably be given antihistamines. Allergy shots can help prevent an attack, especially for someone who seriously allergic to cats. They are a good form of prevention and treatment and dramatically decrease the risk of a cat allergy affecting the individual.

It is best to consult a doctor if you think you may be suffering from cat allergies. He will be able to diagnose and provide the best options available to treat your allergy.

Of course the best way to stop the attacks is to find your cat another home. You may feel very reluctant to do this but if you have become allergic there is no other way to prevent attacks. Although your doctor can provide you with various treatments, he can only do so much. Cat allergens, though mostly not life threatening can cause a great deal of discomfort and generally affect you adversely.

Cats we love - but not the allergies!

Evangeline Auld - Ardent cat lover and co-owner of a site where information is provided on many allergy problems. To find more information on allergies and green living, go to http://allergybusters.net. To pick up a free report on allergies go to: http://www.allergybusterz.com

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