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Cats make great pets, but not as much if you are allergic to them. Cat allergies are common; it is estimated that up to 10–20% of adults are sensitive to cats.1 While not everyone with asthma is allergic to cats, those with allergic asthma may experience worsened symptoms when exposed to them. Cats can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, but they are not always the cause.
If you have asthma or allergies, working with your doctor or allergist can help you understand how exposure to cats might affect your health. Pet allergies can also develop at any stage of life, even if you have no prior history of asthma or allergic reactions.
Important Note: This article has been fact-checked by a veterinarian, but it is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you have asthma or allergies, consult your doctor or allergist before considering bringing a cat into your home.
What Triggers Asthma Attacks?
Asthma is a complex disease with many factors, both genetic and environmental. The exact causes for developing asthma are unknown and may be different from person to person. Pet allergens are a common trigger for allergic asthma, as well as other allergens such as dust mites, mold, or pollens. During an asthma attack, symptoms get very severe, and it can be very scary. They can include coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and you may start to wheeze or feel lightheaded.
Cat-induced asthma is triggered by exposure to your cat’s dander (tiny skin flakes), saliva, and urine. A protein called Fel d 1 is the most common source of cat allergies.
Babies and Cat Exposure
Even though cats can trigger asthma, that doesn’t mean they cause it to develop. For many years, it was believed that exposure to cats could increase a child’s asthma risk. Further studies then suggested that exposure to cats could protect children against developing asthma. A 2002 gave these studies a twist and showed that babies whose mothers also had asthma had an increased likelihood of developing asthma by age 7. Although there’s still room for questions, this study shows that in a few cases, cats might cause asthma in babies that are already at high risk.
Are There “Safe” Breeds of Cats for People with Asthma?
Unfortunately, there are no cat breeds that are completely safe for people with asthma or allergies. However, certain breeds tend to shed less hair and may be better suited for individuals with mild allergies. It’s important to remember, though, that cat allergies are triggered by dander, and all cats, even hairless breeds, shed dander. If you’re looking for a low-shedding cat, here is a list of breeds:
Managing Asthma
Effectively managing asthma symptoms while living with a cat requires collaboration with your doctor to develop a personalized plan that suits your needs. This often involves a combination of medications—such as allergy treatments or inhalers—and environmental adjustments to minimize exposure to allergens. Your doctor can help determine the best strategies for your specific situation.
In addition to medical treatment, reducing dander in your home is essential. Using air filters, vacuuming frequently, bathing your cat, changing clothes after close contact, and designating cat-free areas—like your bedroom—can all contribute to better asthma management. By working closely with your doctor, you can find ways to coexist with your cat while keeping your asthma under control.
Last Thoughts
If you have asthma, living with a cat might not be the best for you. It’s important to make sure that you and your cat are both safe and healthy in your home, which might mean putting your asthma first. But that isn’t a hard-and-fast rule. Some people with asthma have no cat allergies. And if your symptoms around cats are very mild, then making some accommodations can let you keep your cat without risking your health.
Featured Image Credit: Image Point Fr, Shutterstock
