Cats Can Be Allergic To Humans, Researchers Say

[SoCalDem]

Cats Can Be Allergic To Humans, Researchers Say
Smoking, Dust, Even Dandruff Make Some Cats Ill

POSTED: 10:33 am EDT October 19, 2005


http://www.wftv.com/family/5124317/detail.html

Human lifestyles are potentially triggering asthma attacks in cats, according to a study at the University of Edinburgh.

Cigarette smoke, dusty houses, human dandruff, pollen and certain types of cat litters can all create inflammation in cats' airways and worsen asthma, researchers said. Feline asthma is a common disease, with around one in 200 cats suffering from the condition, which causes cough, wheeze and shortness of breath. Pedigree oriental breeds like Siamese cats are more prone to the disease.

"Cats with feline asthma syndrome can be made worse by living in a household where people smoke, or where there are other potential allergens or irritants. We find that bringing asthmatic cats into the hospital here and removing them from the standard triggers like dust and smoke can improve their condition," said researcher Nicki Reed. "Also, changing cat litter from granules to a newspaper-based product can help some asthmatic animals."Recent work in the field of human asthma has suggested a link between bacterial Mycoplasma infection and a worsening of asthmatic symptoms. Research in the United States and Australia has shown this bacterium is present in one-fifth of all lung fluid samples from asthmatic cats.

[AirmensMom]

1. I'll buy that.

Not just the dust, smoke, dandruff, pollen, and litter ... but all the other chemicals that people use in their homes. My neighbor uses a very strongly scented laundry detergent. Her dryer vents into our yard, right into the patio area where the kitties hang out. They go inside whenever she starts up her dryer. I know it makes me sick ... but it apparently irritates them, too.

:shrug:

[skygazer]

2. I think I'm allergic to humans

Or maybe it's just that I'm allergic to work. :shrug:

[bicentennial_baby]

3. as am i

to humans, yes. i could go forever without seeing another person and be perfectly content. :)