Most cat allergies are caused by an abnormal immune response to what is known as dander the microscopic particles of dead skin shed by cats and other animals with fur or feathers.
Cat allergy test nhs.
Severe allergic reaction anaphylaxis in rare cases an allergy can lead to a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock which can be life threatening.
Preventing severe allergies anaphylaxis if you re at risk of experiencing a severe allergic reaction anaphylaxis make sure you carry 2 adrenaline auto injectors with you everywhere.
Cat allergy symptoms it s likely that if you ve ever stroked a cat and soon after your eyes have started watering you ve become wheezy or your nose has become blocked you ve got a cat allergy.
These tests are often of a lower standard than those provided by the nhs or accredited private clinics and are generally considered to be unreliable.
Test for allergies to cats.
There are two ways to test for any allergy including to cats.
Wearing a medicalert or medi tag medallion or bracelet can make others aware of your allergy in an emergency.
This test is riskier than other forms of testing as it could cause a severe reaction but is the most accurate way to diagnose food allergies.
The use of commercial allergy testing kits isn t recommended.
Before you plan on what to do next it is important to discuss your allergy with a gp or health professional.
Scientists discover cure for cat allergies is the premature claim in the daily telegraph.
The only way to diagnose a food allergy is to feed your cat a prescription or hydrolyzed protein diet exclusively for 12 weeks that means no flavored medications or treats.
And challenge testing is always carried out in a clinic where a severe reaction can be treated if it does develop.
Learn more from webmd about the causes symptoms and treatments of allergies to cats.
There are two types of skin allergy tests a skin prick test and an intradermal skin test.
Do you suspect you may have a cat allergy.
The test of choice is an intradermal skin test as blood allergy tests are not considered as reliable.
Allergy tests should be interpreted by a qualified professional who has detailed knowledge of your symptoms and.
Read more about diagnosing allergies.
They can help determine whether the symptoms are caused by an allergy or another condition.
But it is unclear what biological processes are involved when a person has an allergic reaction to cat dander.
This is particularly important if you have other allergic conditions such as asthma rhinitis or eczema.