Why your cat's grooming habits might be the reason for your sneezing fits
In short: Domestic cats trigger human allergies primarily through their own grooming habits. This video explains the biological mechanisms behind why cats cause reactions and how specific proteins in their saliva and skin are the culprits.
The primary allergens causing human reactions to cats are the proteins Fel d 1 and Fel d 4. When a cat grooms itself, it stimulates its salivary and sebaceous glands, which produce these proteins. Fel d 1 is found in both saliva and skin, while Fel d 4 is expressed mainly through saliva.
The intensity of an allergic response can vary based on the cat's sex. Male cats produce higher levels of these offending proteins because testosterone increases their production, meaning female cats generally produce fewer allergens.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Why are Some People Allergic to Cats (and are They Also Allergic to Tigers)?
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