Problems Caused By Cat Dander

Everyone knows what dander is. It's very common in humans (called dandruff) and, unfortunately, it's also common in animals. When a homeowner sees a cat continually scratching, or has evidence of dander around the house, it is important to find out exactly what the problem is as there are many diseases which could also cause this problem. If the problem is Cat Dander it's sometimes difficult to find a complete cure.

Cats skin, under the fur, is very similar to humans. It has cells and it sheds this skin on a daily basis. When this skin becomes exceedingly dry, it will float through the air and land on anything in the vicinity. This could be carpeting, curtains or any surface, including people.

Unfortunately, there are other things involved, not just dry skin. The saliva from a cat usually contains Fel D1. When grooming itself this, or other things it has come in contact with, will attach itself to its skin. When this skin flakes off and lands on a person, it may cause an allergic reaction. This makes a very unpleasant situation for the cat owner. The Fel D1 can also be found in the cat's urine and the litter box.

This dander may be inhaled, by family members, through the mouth or nose as it flies through the air. An allergic reaction is usually indicated by severe sneezing, runny nose, nasal or sinus congestion or itching, similar to hay fever. In severe cases, a person may get a skin rash or hives.

To help control the situation suggestions have been made that the cat be thoroughly bathed once a week, especially washing their face and ears. Washing the cats face and ears with hypoallergenic pet wipes between baths can also help. Of course, it's important that one's hands be washed following any handling of the cat.

There are very few over the counter medicines for this problem. People offering home remedies have several suggestions. It would seem that if the dander were caused by dry skin the solution would be to try to find out what one could do to correct that particular problem.

Checking with a veterinarian would be the best step if there is a severe problem with someone in the home having an allergy from this problem. They would know of any special medicine or treatment that could bring about a cure or at least alleviate the situation. Cat dander is no fun for the cat or for the family so a solution should be found as soon as possible.