Press Release from Cats
Protection HQ
Cats,
allergies and asthma – presenting the facts.
Whilst Cats Protection recognises the
health risks that can be posed by cat allergens, it is increasingly clear that,
in many cases, living with a feline can be a manageable option for the asthma
or allergy sufferer.
Several studies now demonstrate that
early exposure to cat allergens may even protect against asthma, which is good
news for families wishing to have a cat but who are worried about possible
future asthma in their children.
A recently published guide from leading
feline welfare charity, Cats Protection, presents an abundance of helpful
information on this popular topic to help the sufferer, and his or her doctor
or midwife, to make the best decision for all parties concerned – including the
cat.
“Cats and Asthma: a Review of Recent Findings”, is primarily aimed at the
medical profession, although it will also be of interest to all cat-owning
asthma and allergy sufferers.
Packed with relevant research findings
from medical journals, the guide also considers:
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When cats are a problem.
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Why people are reluctant to get rid of their pets.
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Whether giving up a cat can solve the problem.
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Practical measures that allergy/asthma
sufferers can take when they want to keep their pet.
Copies of “Cats and Asthma: a Review
of Recent Findings” are available free-of-charge to the medical
profession and members of the public from Cats Protection’s national Helpline. Tel:
08702 099 099. E-mail: helpline@cats.org.uk
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1.
Some pertinent points for doctors
and patients: -
a. A
physician’s first choice – but the patient’s last.
Many sufferers
are very reluctant to part with their pet, especially if only one member of the
family is allergic.
b.
Non-compliance with recommendations to give up a pet is extremely high.
Many allergists
estimate that over three-quarters of pet owners choose to keep their pet
despite recommendations to the contrary. A recent study in
c. Benefits of pet ownership.
Recent medical
evidence shows that exposure to cat and dog allergens in
infancy reduces subsequent risk of allergic sensitisation to multiple
allergens, including non-pet allergens. In addition, the relationship between
pet and owner has been found to provide important emotional and psychological
elements associated with better physical health and mental well-being.
d. Removal of a
pet may not remove the problem.
Numerous
studies have shown that pet allergens may remain in the house for up to six
months after removal of a pet. A current study in
e. A
pet-related problem may be manageable.
Simple measures
to minimise contact with pet allergens may reduce symptoms by up to 95%,
without giving up the pet, according to leading researchers at the
2.
3.
Recommendations for people wanting to
keep their pet.
Because
allergies are cumulative, the
Measures
include: -
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Removing furnishings and objects that
harbour allergens by replacing carpets and upholstered furniture with hard
flooring and leather/PVC-type covered furniture. This is especially important
for bedrooms and living rooms.
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Opening windows for one hour a day.
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Avoiding woollen clothing, which
harbours up to ten times more allergens than many cotton or synthetic fabrics.
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Vacuuming thoroughly and using an air filter.
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Using zippered plastic covers for
mattresses and cushions.
Cat-specific
recommendations include: -
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Making sure the cat is brushed daily outside the house.
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Weekly bathing of the cat.
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Application of topical products to
minimise dander.
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Checking the cat’s diet, as simple
changes can reduce hair loss.
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Prohibiting cat from sufferer’s bedroom
and reducing access to certain areas of the house.
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Moving litter tray and bed away from any
areas of air conditioning and air filtration vents.
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Ensuring hands are washed after touching
the cat.
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By taking such measures it has been suggested that
symptoms can be reduced by up to 95%.
