Identification

• A person who is suffering form cat allergies may have itchy, watery eyes. She will begin to sneeze, and may have an itchy, runny nose. An overall sense of fatigue may come over her. An itchy rash may cover the skin on her hands and other areas that have been exposed to cat dander. In more severe reactions, the throat may become dry and swollen. If breathing becomes irregular, seek medical attention immediately.
  
  

Features

• Cat allergies are caused by dander. This allergen is made by glands in the cat's skin, and gets trapped in the undercoat of the animal's fur. When it gets into the air, it floats and sticks to any type of surface. It can linger long after the cat has left the room.
  
  

Types

• Allergic reactions to cats can range from mild to severe. One quick sneeze may be the only symptom in mild cases. Difficulty breathing and hyperventilation can occur in severe cases.
  
  

Effects

• Allergy suffers will feel mild to moderate discomfort while they are in the presence of cats or residual cat dander. When visiting a home where cats live, the allergy sufferer may have an allergic reaction, even if the cat is not in the same room. Cat fur that is loaded with dander and trapped in carpeting, upholstery and pillows can cause an allergic reaction.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• For mild allergic reactions, over-the-counter medications will provide relief. Products that contain antihistamines, decongestants and acetaminophen will help reduce the symptoms related to a cat allergy.
  
  Saline-based eye drops will also help allergy suffers moisturize and soothe their itchy, watery eyes.
  
  The best way to avoid allergic reactions to cats is to not be near them. Avoid pet stores, veterinarian's offices and grooming salons. Large amounts of pet dander floats in the air due to the high volume of pets in those facilities.
  
  Washing bedding, pillows, carpets and rugs will help remove dander from the environment. Allergic reactions will decrease and be less severe if the affected environment has been thoroughly cleaned.