Cat Allergy Care for Children and Adults

If you notice sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, or wheezing after being around cats, you may have a cat allergy. Cat allergies are a common cause of ongoing allergy symptoms because exposure can occur in many indoor environments—including homes, schools, workplaces, and daycare centers—even when a cat is not physically present.

At Praana Center for Asthma and Allergy, we evaluate and treat cat allergies in both children and adults, helping patients understand their triggers and develop practical, effective treatment plans.

What Causes Cat Allergies?

Cat allergies are triggered by proteins (allergens) produced by cats. These allergens are found in:

  • Cat skin flakes (dander)

  • Saliva

  • Fur

All cats produce allergens. Despite popular belief, studies have not shown that any cat breed is truly hypoallergenic. Factors such as hair length, a cat’s sex, or how much time a cat spends indoors do not reliably reduce allergen levels. Homes with multiple cats typically have higher allergen exposure.

In some cases, allergy symptoms around cats may be due to pollen or dust carried on the cat’s coat, rather than the cat itself. Allergy testing helps clarify the true trigger.

Why Cat Allergies Can Be Persistent

Cat dander particles are extremely small and lightweight. When disturbed—such as by movement, vacuuming, or sitting on furniture—these allergens can remain airborne for extended periods of time. This allows for continuous exposure, even after the cat has left the room, and explains why symptoms can feel constant or difficult to control.

Common Cat Allergy Symptoms

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may appear within minutes in highly sensitive individuals. Common symptoms include:

  • Sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion

  • Facial pressure or sinus discomfort

  • Itchy, red, or watery eyes

  • Coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, or shortness of breath

  • Skin rash or hives

Some people may also develop hives or localized skin reactions after being scratched by a cat.

How Cat Allergies Are Diagnosed

If you suspect a cat allergy, an allergist can confirm the diagnosis and help guide treatment.

Skin Prick Testing

Skin testing is the most common and reliable way to diagnose cat allergy. A small amount of cat allergen extract is placed on the skin, and the skin is gently pricked. Results are typically available within 15–20 minutes.

Even if symptoms seem clearly related to cats, testing is important because similar symptoms can be caused by other environmental allergens.

Managing and Treating Cat Allergies

Allergen Avoidance

Avoidance is the most effective way to reduce symptoms. For patients with severe symptoms, removing the cat from the home may be recommended.

When avoidance is not possible, symptom reduction strategies may include:

  • Keeping the cat out of the bedroom

  • Washing hands after contact with the cat

  • Using HEPA air purifiers in frequently used rooms

  • Vacuuming regularly with a high-efficiency vacuum

  • Bathing the cat weekly to reduce airborne allergen levels

Restricting a cat to one room does not prevent allergens from spreading throughout the home.

Medical Treatment Options

Treatment depends on symptom type and severity and may include:

  • Antihistamines for sneezing, itching, and runny nose

  • Steroid nasal sprays for nasal congestion

  • Antihistamine eye drops for eye symptoms

  • Inhalers or asthma medications if lower airway symptoms are present

Allergy Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)

Allergy shots can be an effective long-term treatment by gradually building tolerance to cat allergens. This option may be considered for patients with persistent symptoms that are not well controlled with medications alone.

Is There an Allergy-Free Cat?

At this time, there is no truly allergy-free or hypoallergenic cat. All cats produce allergens, regardless of breed or appearance. Allergy testing and individualized counseling can help determine the safest and most realistic approach for each patient and family.

Cat Allergy Care Near Hinsdale, Oakbrook, Burr Ridge

Praana Center for Asthma and Allergy is located in Willowbrook, Illinois, and we care for patients from Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Oak Brook, Downers Grove, and nearby communities.

If cat allergy symptoms are affecting your quality of life, we can help you develop a plan that balances symptom control, safety, and daily living.

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