Cats (Allergies)

Question:

Is it true that cats with light fur cause less problems with allergies than cats with dark fur?

Answer:

Yes, according to a study reported by researchers from Long Island College Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, at the recent annual conference of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The study involved more than 300 people to find out if allergies may be related to the color of an animal's fur. The investigators found that those with dark-colored felines were two to four times more likely to report severe or moderate symptoms than those who had light-colored cats or no cats at all.

Contrary to popular belief, people are not allergic to cat's fur, but rather, to a protein found in the saliva, dander (dead skin flakes), or urine of an animal with fur. These proteins are carried in the air on very small, invisible particles, which can land on the lining of the eyes or nose, or be inhaled directly into the lungs. Just why darker coat color would make cats more allergenic is not known, but the researchers speculate that dark-colored cats may produce more of this protein.

Allergy specialists generally recommend allergic patients get rid of their cats. Keeping an animal outdoors is only a partial solution, since homes with pets in the yard still have higher concentrations of animal allergens. Since most cat owners are reluctant to give up kitty, experts offer advice on reducing exposure to the cat allergen.

Keep the cat out of the bedroom and any other rooms where the allergic person spends most of their time. Remove carpets, which tend to collect animal allergens. Use a HEPA (high efficiency particulate cleaner) vacuum cleaner. But run the vacuum when the allergic person is out of the house, since cleaning can stir up animal allergens and make them airborne. Some studies have demonstrated that bathing dogs or cats on a weekly basis may reduce the amount of allergens that are shed in the home, although this issue remains controversial. Also, have a non-allergic family member brush the cat outside to remove loose hair and allergens.

Replace bedding and carpeting that has animal dander in it. It can take weeks or months for fabrics to come clean of allergens, and animal allergens may persist for a year or more after the animal has been removed.