Lenawee Humane Society

705 W. Beecher St.

Adrian, MI 49221

Phone: 517-263-3463

Fax: 517-265-3837

Email: ilovepets@tc3net.com

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Many people who are allergic to cats can get relief without losing the companionship of their cats, friends or family.

When people are allergic to cats, they have a sensitivity to an allergen in the cat's saliva. At one time, it was thought to be the cat's hair that made some people sneeze, but today doctors agree it's the substance left on the cat's coat from his cleaning ritual. Cat dander, tiny flakes of skin that are shed from the cat, also is part of the allergic response. As a cat cleans himself, he deposits the antigen from his saliva onto his hair. When hair sheds, more of the antigen can enter the environment.

A couple of options are available to ease allergic reactions. First make sure that it is the cat that is causing the allergy. Some people have found they are really allergic to the flea collar or the cat shampoo, and not the cat.

If your allergist confirms you have an allergy to cats, there are several options...

Treat Yourself:

• Your allergist might decide to treat you with antihistamines.
• Your allergist may prescribe a nasal spray, eye drops, or inhaler that contains a drug to block the allergic response.
• Your allergist may prescribe allergy shots that incorporate the use of purified cat saliva extract.

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