Cat Allergy Treatment: Which Doctor Should You See?

What Are Cat Allergies?

Cat allergies are immune system reactions triggered by proteins found in cat dander, saliva, and urine, particularly the Fel d 1 protein. These allergies affect approximately 10% of the population and can develop at any age, even after years of exposure to cats without previous symptoms.

Symptoms and Causes

Cat allergy symptoms typically manifest within minutes to hours after exposure and include:

• Respiratory symptoms: Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, postnasal drip, and coughing • Eye symptoms: Itchy, red, or watery eyes and swollen eyelids • Skin reactions: Hives, eczema flare-ups, or itchy skin where a cat has licked, scratched, or rubbed against you

The primary cause of cat allergies is the Fel d 1 protein, which cats produce in their sebaceous glands, saliva, and urine. This protein becomes airborne when attached to tiny particles of dander that cats shed continuously. Unlike common belief, no cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, though some breeds produce lower levels of allergens than others.

Who Can Diagnose Cat Allergies?

Both primary care doctors and allergy specialists can diagnose cat allergies through various testing methods and clinical evaluation. While primary care physicians can perform initial assessments and basic allergy tests, allergists have specialized training to conduct comprehensive testing and develop targeted treatment plans for complex cases.

Primary Care Doctors

Primary care physicians serve as the first point of contact for suspected cat allergies and can perform basic diagnostic evaluations. They can review your medical history, assess symptoms, and order blood tests like specific IgE testing to detect cat allergen antibodies. Many primary care doctors can also prescribe initial treatments such as antihistamines (loratadine, cetirizine) or nasal corticosteroids to manage symptoms.

Your primary care doctor may refer you to an allergy specialist if your symptoms are severe, don't respond to initial treatment, or if you need comprehensive allergy testing. They can also help rule out other conditions that mimic allergies, such as respiratory infections or non-allergic rhinitis.

Allergy Specialists

Allergists and immunologists have advanced training in diagnosing and treating allergic conditions, making them ideal for managing cat allergies. These specialists can perform skin prick tests, intradermal testing, and component-resolved diagnostics to identify specific allergen sensitivities. They also have expertise in interpreting complex test results and distinguishing between true allergies and other sensitivities.

Beyond diagnosis, allergy specialists can prescribe advanced treatments like immunotherapy for cat allergies, which can provide long-term relief by desensitizing your immune system. They develop personalized treatment plans based on your specific allergen profile, lifestyle needs, and the severity of your reactions.

What Procedures Can Doctors Use to Confirm Cat Allergies?

Doctors can confirm cat allergies through skin prick tests, blood tests measuring specific IgE antibodies, and intradermal testing for accurate diagnosis. These procedures help identify your immune system's reaction to cat allergens, particularly the Fel d 1 protein found in cat saliva, skin, and urine.

Diagnosis and Tests

Skin Prick Testing is the most common and quickest diagnostic method for identifying cat allergies. During this procedure, a small amount of cat allergen extract is placed on your skin, usually the forearm or back. The doctor then pricks the skin surface, allowing the allergen to enter. A raised, red bump appearing within 15-20 minutes indicates a positive reaction.

Blood Testing measures specific IgE antibodies to cat allergens in your bloodstream without requiring direct allergen exposure. This option works well for patients taking antihistamines, those with severe eczema, or individuals who cannot undergo skin testing. Results typically take several days but provide quantitative measurements of your sensitization levels to help guide treatment decisions for cat allergies.

Additional Diagnostic Methods include: • Intradermal testing for more sensitive detection when skin prick tests are inconclusive • Component-resolved diagnostics to identify reactions to specific cat allergen proteins • Elimination and reintroduction challenges to confirm symptoms are directly related to cat exposure • Nasal provocation tests in specialized settings for respiratory symptom evaluation

When Should You See a Primary Care Doctor for Treatment?

You should see a primary care doctor when experiencing persistent mild to moderate cat allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes that interfere with daily activities. Primary care physicians can prescribe antihistamines, nasal sprays, and provide initial management strategies before referring to specialists if needed.

Signs to visit your primary care doctor: • Symptoms lasting more than two weeks despite avoiding cats • Over-the-counter (OTC) medications aren't providing adequate relief • Experiencing sinus infections or respiratory issues related to cat exposure • Need documentation for work or housing accommodations • Developing new symptoms after years of cat ownership

Primary care doctors can prescribe stronger medications than OTC options, including prescription antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine), nasal corticosteroids (fluticasone, mometasone), or leukotriene modifiers (montelukast). They'll also evaluate whether your symptoms warrant specialist referral or if natural remedies for cat allergies might complement medical treatment. Your doctor can assess symptom severity and determine if immunotherapy could provide long-term relief.

Who Are the Specialists That Treat Cat Allergies?

The specialists who treat cat allergies are allergists and immunologists, medical doctors with advanced training in diagnosing and managing allergic conditions and immune system disorders. These specialists offer comprehensive testing, personalized treatment plans, and advanced therapies like immunotherapy to fix cat allergies that primary care doctors typically don't provide.

Allergists

Allergists complete additional fellowship training after medical school focusing specifically on allergic diseases and their treatment. They perform specialized allergy testing including skin prick tests, intradermal tests, and specific IgE blood tests to identify cat allergen sensitivities. These specialists develop customized treatment plans that may include prescription medications, environmental modifications, and immunotherapy options.

Board-certified allergists stay current with the latest research on cat allergy treatments and can prescribe sublingual immunotherapy drops or allergy shots. They monitor treatment progress through regular follow-ups and adjust protocols based on patient response. Allergists also provide education about allergen avoidance strategies while maintaining quality of life for cat owners who don't want to rehome their pets.

Immunologists

Immunologists specialize in immune system disorders and often have dual certification in allergy and immunology. They treat complex cases where cat allergies occur alongside other immune conditions like asthma, eczema, or autoimmune disorders. These specialists understand how getting rid of cat allergies requires addressing underlying immune system dysfunction rather than just managing symptoms.

Clinical immunologists use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate immune responses and determine why certain individuals develop severe cat allergies. They prescribe biological medications for severe cases and coordinate care with other specialists when allergies trigger systemic reactions. Their expertise proves invaluable for patients with multiple allergies or those who haven't responded to standard treatments.

What Treatment and Management Options Are Available?

Treatment options for cat allergies include medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays for symptom relief, plus immunotherapy for long-term desensitization to cat allergens. Specialists can prescribe both immediate relief medications and disease-modifying treatments that reduce your immune system's overreaction to cat proteins over time.

OTC antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra) provide quick relief from sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Prescription nasal corticosteroid sprays such as fluticasone (Flonase) and mometasone (Nasonex) reduce inflammation in nasal passages. Eye drops containing ketotifen help relieve itchy, watery eyes caused by cat dander exposure.

Prescription medications for severe symptoms include: • Leukotriene modifiers like montelukast (Singulair) that block inflammatory chemicals • Combination antihistamine-decongestant medications for multiple symptoms • Short-term oral corticosteroids for severe allergic reactions • Bronchodilators for allergy-induced asthma symptoms

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy involves placing drops containing small amounts of cat allergen extract under the tongue daily to build tolerance. This treatment method offers convenience since patients can self-administer drops at home without frequent doctor visits. Studies show sublingual immunotherapy can reduce cat allergy symptoms by 40-60% after consistent use for 12-18 months.

The treatment works by gradually exposing your immune system to increasing doses of cat allergens, retraining it to stop overreacting. Unlike allergy shots, sublingual drops have minimal risk of severe reactions and don't require injection site monitoring. Most patients experience improvement within 3-6 months, with maximum benefits achieved after completing the full treatment course.

When Is Self-Care Enough for Cat Allergy Management?

Self-care alone may suffice for mild cat allergies causing occasional sneezing or minor itching that doesn't interfere with daily activities. If symptoms respond well to OTC antihistamines and environmental controls without requiring prescription medications or frequent doctor visits, home management strategies can effectively control your allergic reactions.

Self Care for Cat Allergies

Environmental modifications form the foundation of self-care for cat allergies. Creating cat-free zones in your bedroom, using HEPA air purifiers, and washing hands after petting cats significantly reduces allergen exposure. Regular vacuuming with HEPA-filtered cleaners and washing bedding weekly in hot water removes accumulated dander from living spaces.

Daily management strategies include: • Taking OTC antihistamines before anticipated cat exposure • Using saline nasal rinses to flush allergens from nasal passages • Keeping windows closed during high pollen days that can worsen allergies • Wearing a mask when cleaning litter boxes or grooming cats • Bathing cats weekly to reduce airborne allergen levels

Self-care reaches its limits when symptoms persist despite consistent environmental controls and OTC medications. Experiencing breathing difficulties, chronic sinus infections, or symptoms affecting sleep quality signals the need for professional medical evaluation. Allergic asthma symptoms like wheezing or chest tightness always require doctor supervision beyond home remedies.

How Should You Prepare for Your Allergy Appointment?

Prepare for your allergy appointment by documenting symptom patterns, listing current medications, and tracking cat exposure triggers for at least two weeks beforehand. Bring insurance information, complete intake forms early, and compile questions about testing options and treatment plans to maximize your consultation time with the specialist.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Documentation to gather before your visit: • A detailed symptom diary noting severity, timing, and duration of reactions • List of all current medications including OTC antihistamines and nasal sprays • Previous allergy test results or medical records from other providers • Photos of skin reactions or hives if applicable • Family history of allergies or asthma

Questions to ask your doctor: • What specific testing methods will confirm cat allergies? • How long before treatment shows improvement? • Can sublingual immunotherapy work alongside current medications? • What emergency symptoms require immediate medical attention? • Are there genetic factors affecting treatment success?

Avoid taking antihistamines for 3-7 days before skin testing as directed by your doctor, since these medications can interfere with accurate results. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms or back for potential skin tests. Schedule appointments during times when symptoms are active rather than during temporary improvement periods.

Live Allergy-Free with Wyndly

If you want long-term relief from your allergies, Wyndly can help. Our doctors will help you identify your allergy triggers and create a personalized treatment plan to get you the lifelong relief you deserve. Start by taking our quick online allergy assessment today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if I'm allergic to a cat?

If you're allergic to a cat, minimize exposure by keeping the cat out of your bedroom, using HEPA air filters, and washing hands after contact. Consider allergy medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays. For long-term relief, immunotherapy can help desensitize your immune system to cat allergens.

Can an allergist help with cat allergies?

Yes, allergists specialize in diagnosing and treating cat allergies. They can perform allergy testing to confirm the diagnosis, prescribe medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays, and offer immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) to gradually reduce your sensitivity to cat allergens over time.

Is there a cure for people who are allergic to cats?

There is no permanent cure for cat allergies, but effective treatments exist. Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual drops) can significantly reduce symptoms over time. Other management options include antihistamines, nasal sprays, and avoiding direct contact with cats. Some people experience long-term symptom relief after completing immunotherapy.

Can a doctor help with cat allergies?

Yes, doctors can help with cat allergies through several treatments. They can prescribe antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or decongestants for symptom relief. Allergists may also recommend immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) to build tolerance over time, and provide guidance on reducing cat dander exposure at home.

What can be done if you are allergic to cats?

If you're allergic to cats, you can take antihistamines for symptom relief, use HEPA air filters, keep cats out of bedrooms, wash hands after contact, and bathe cats weekly. Consider allergy immunotherapy (shots or drops) for long-term treatment to build tolerance to cat allergens.

Can a cat allergy cause a cough?

Yes, cat allergies can cause coughing. When you inhale cat dander, your immune system may trigger respiratory symptoms including persistent dry cough, throat irritation, and postnasal drip. The cough often worsens with direct cat exposure and may be accompanied by wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath.

What is the best allergy medication for someone allergic to cats?

Antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) are effective first-line medications for cat allergies. For severe symptoms, combining antihistamines with nasal corticosteroid sprays like fluticasone provides better relief. However, allergy immunotherapy offers the only long-term solution by building tolerance to cat allergens over time.

Can a cat allergy cause diarrhea?

Cat allergies primarily cause respiratory symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. However, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions can trigger gastrointestinal issues including diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. This typically occurs when cat allergens are ingested or during systemic allergic responses affecting multiple body systems.