Cat Allergy in Babies

Babies with cat allergies tend to develop asthma symptoms.

Babies with cat allergies usually have traditional allergy symptoms. Cat allergies in babies are immune reactions to feline dander, feces, saliva and urine. Parents usually discover that determining a baby's allergy to cats to be a challenge but, with detailed testing, are able to effectively manage allergy symptoms.

Symptoms

Babies exhibit a multitude of symptoms as a result of cat allergies. Symptoms may include red, itchy water eyes, repeated sneezing, congestion, clear, runny nose, persistent coughing, dark circles under the eyes, wheezing and a rash. Babies with cat allergies may also experience persistent nighttime congestion and coughing, frequent ear infections and repeated colds.

Treatments

Cat allergies in babies are treated with a variety of medications. Your pediatrician is likely to suggest using over-the-counter antihistamines for mild allergy symptoms. The BabyCenter medical advisory board asserts that your pediatrician may also suggest using decongestants and nasal sprays to resolve allergy problems. Persistent cat allergy symptoms may require prescription antihistamines. Your pediatrician may also refer your baby to a pediatric allergist for detailed testing. Pediatric allergists perform blood and skin testing to determine the underlying causes of allergic reactions such as cat allergies. Pediatric allergists also work with parents to develop treatment plans for managing allergies, which include medications, allergy-proofing the home and possible allergy shots. Babies with asthma symptoms related to cat allergies may be required to undergo respiratory treatments to resolve breathing problems and prevent respiratory infections.

Prevention/Solution

Removing your cat from your home is not a quick fix for your baby's allergy symptoms. According to the Allergy Be Gone website, cat dander can remain in your home for up to six months after the removal of a cat. If you cannot give up your cat, reduce the likelihood of allergy symptoms by keeping your pet in one room of the house and out of the baby's room at all times. Re-circulate the air within your home by opening windows regularly and trap pet allergens by using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Be sure to keep the cat litter box out of any room that your baby is exposed to. Clean your house regularly to remove pet dander. AskDrSears.com recommends using allergy control solution on carpets to inactivate accumulated pet dander.

Facts

Babies with cat allergies are likely to develop asthma problems as a result of allergic reactions. AskDrSears.com asserts that babies with asthma and wheezing triggered by pet allergies are best treated by removing the cat from your home. Babies with cat allergies may also need to be prohibited from visiting homes where cat exposure is possible.

Warning

Cat allergies in babies can activate critical asthmatic symptoms such as gasping for breath, wheezing and breathing complications. Cautiously observe your baby during episodes of allergic asthmatic symptoms to confirm proper breathing. Telephone your pediatrician immediately if your baby develops breathing problems that do not improve with medications and home treatment.

References

• BabyCenter: Pet Allergies
• AskDrSears.com: Allergies
• Allergy Be Gone: About Pet Dander Allergies