Cat Allergies & Eczema

Could cat allergies be causing you to itch?

Eczema--a skin condition in which you develop itchy rashes--is often brought on by allergies to cat dander. If you suffer from eczema, you may need to avoid contact with cats and kittens, although you can take measures to protect yourself from allergic reactions when visiting a home that contains a cat.

How Cat Allergies Work

Allergic persons have a negative reaction to a protein found in cat saliva and dander, according to Auckland Allergy Clinic. Cats spread this protein--called an allergen because it provokes an allergic reaction--over their bodies when they clean themselves with their tongue. When the protein breaks down, it becomes airborne. When the allergic person inhales it, he has an allergic reaction.

Hives and Eczema

Hives are a common allergic reaction after touching a cat. If you already have eczema, petting a cat may make the condition worse. Eczema is a persistent itch accompanied by rash and a history of allergy-related respiratory illness such as asthma or hay fever.

Preventing Outbreaks

There are several things an allergic person can do to prevent eczema outbreaks around their cat. First, groom the cat daily and bathe her weekly in the sink using plain water. Your cat will not like bathing the first couple of times. Introduce it gradually; first let her get used to sitting in the sink. After a few weeks of putting him in the sink on the same day each week, add a small amount of water. Gradually add the amount of water you use to bathe your cat until you are using an entire pitcher.

You should also keep your cat out of your bedroom and rooms that you use on a regular basis, such as your living room. Let her stay in a roommate's room or other area of the house you do not visit often. If possible, remove carpets, which are notorious allergen-catchers. If you cannot remove carpeting, install HEPA filters facing away from the carpet in each room and invest in a HEPA vacuum.

After Visiting

After visiting a home with a cat, wash your hands and change your clothes. You can also take a non-drowsy antihistamine an hour before exposure to a cat.

Cat-Free Environments

It is possible to have an allergic reaction even if you avoid cats fastidiously. Co-workers or friends who own cats may carry dander unintentionally on their clothes. If you give away a cat due to allergies, allergens settle in carpets for up to 20 weeks and mattresses for up to 5 years. You should air out all rooms that have been exposed to cats and keep a fan or HEPA filter on to keep cat dander away.

References

• Auckland Allergy Clinic: Cat Allergy