Do cats give you the sniffles? The experts tell us more about it.
Dr Chesney Pillai is a small animal veterinarian at Olivedale Veterinary Clinic and has shared some valuable information on cat allergies.
Which 5 long-haired cat breeds should be avoided, if you are allergic to cats?
“Breeds that should be avoided as they produce more allergens than other breeds, include the Persian, British Longhair, Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest, and Sphynx cats! Contrary to popular belief, while the Sphynx may have no allergens in hair as they lack a fur coat, they produce more allergens on their skin from activity in their sebaceous glands which many people may be sensitive to.”
Could you tell us more about how these types of allergies work?
“Cats produce eight different types of allergens, and the most prominent one accounts for more than 90% of human cat allergies. The allergens are secreted mainly through saliva, sebaceous glands on the skin, and dander (dead skin cells), which end up on the fur. They enter the human body via the nose or mouth, and the body recognises these allergens as foreign, stimulating an immune response. This will cause symptoms such as coughing, increased mucous production, hives, and airway constriction.”
Could a person overcome their allergies by getting a cat?
“One can manage the effects of cat allergies should they decide to get a cat, using antihistamines and decongestants to provide relief. There is an option for allergen immunotherapy which helps the immune system adjust to what is recognised as foreign, but this is not a feasible option for many people due to the financial impact and availability of this treatment in SA.
Regular cat bathing can reduce significant amounts of the allergen in the fur. Other solutions include managing the environment by excluding the cat from the bedroom, weekly vacuuming/steam cleaning, covering upholstered furniture, and increased ventilation at night by opening windows.”
Which cat breeds are considered hypo-allergenic?
“There are several cat breeds that produce fewer allergens than others, and these include the Balinese, Siberian, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, Abyssinian, and Oriental Shorthair. Some Siamese cats may possess hypoallergenic qualities if they have Balinese lineage. Another aspect to consider is that intact male cats produce many more allergens than females or neutered male cats.”
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Dr Chesney Pillai was born and raised in a humble mining town called Carletonville and attended the University of Pretoria. She worked at a mixed animal practice which encompassed community engagement with large and small animals in rural settings, before pursuing her passion for working in small animal welfare. She then dipped her toe in the radiology industry and has now found her niche in small animal private practice.
Dr Chesney, when did you decide to become a vet?
“I have dreamed of being a vet for as long as I can remember. Once I was old enough to understand what a vet was, my mind was made up - I was going to grow up and help animals.”
Do you have any pets? If yes, which breeds?
“I have two rescue dogs – Hiccup who is a three-legged Africanis cross, and Strider, who is part Pitbull, part dinosaur. I spend most of my free time appreciating nature with my dogs!”
