Cats May Decrease Children’s Risk of Developing Asthma and Allergies

A study at the Asthma and Allergic Diseases Center, University of Virginia, suggests that the immune systems of some children adjust to high levels of cat allergen, actually decreasing their risk of developing asthma. For allergens such as dust and pollen, the higher the level of exposure, the greater the chance is of a person producing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies which cause allergic reactions. However, high amounts of cat allergens appear to reduce IgE antibodies while low amounts still trigger allergies. Research shows that babies who live with pets develop half the number of positive skin tests to animal allergens than those without pets. Doctors now suggest that people who are allergic to cats, keep them, bathe them often, remove carpets and vacuum frequently. Adding a HEPA type filter to your central heating and air conditioning will help immensely. People who live in a community where lots of people have cats are more likely to develop an allergy if they don’t have a cat.

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