Low Fever Following a Cat Allergy
Cats are the most common pet allergy. Symptoms are usually mild and include sneezing or itching. A low-grade fever may follow allergen exposure. However, fever is rarely caused by allergies and may be a sign of something more serious.
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Allergy Causes
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Contrary to popular belief, allergies to cats are not caused by fur. Cat saliva and dander are the true culprits. Dander releases into the air and becomes an airborne allergen. Because cats constantly groom themselves, no cat is truly allergen-free.
Symptoms
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Allergic reactions to cats include sneezing, itching, watery eyes, chest pain, hives, wheezing and asthma-like symptoms. As the immune system attacks allergens in the body, it is possible for a low-grade fever to develop.
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Sinusitis
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Allergy symptoms accompanied by fever could signal a sinus infection, particularly if the symptoms do not go away shortly after exposure. Symptoms of sinusitis are fever, facial pain, congestion and nasal discharge.
Warning
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Cat allergies might be confused with "cat scratch fever" because both cause skin irritation. Fever, headache, and loss of appetite are symptoms of the illness, also known as cat scratch disease, which can manifest when a person is scratched or bitten by a cat.
Prevention/Solution
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Avoiding exposure to cats and their dander is the best way to prevent allergic reactions. If exposure is unavoidable, prepare by taking an antihistamine beforehand.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit cat image by Ivan Zhelev from Fotolia.com
