are more people allergic to cats or dogs

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Indeed the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America suggests that cat allergy is about twice as common as dog allergy.

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All cats produce the protein, which experts believe may be related to pheromone signaling, so there are no truly hypoallergenic cat breeds. However, some cats produce more of the protein than others.

If you have pet allergies, it’s more likely that Fluffy, not Fido, is causing your sneezes. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies, even though an estimated 10% of people are allergic to household pets.

Allergy shots might be an option for people who are unable to avoid cat dander. Over time, gradual injections of the allergen can aid in the development of immune system tolerance. “The therapy takes three to five years of monthly injections to reach full effectiveness, after about six months of weekly injections of increasing potency to reach a maintenance level,” Dr. Allergist Jackie Eghrari-Sabet founded Family Allergy and Asthma Care in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Because the protein is so light and tiny—roughly a tenth the size of a dust allergen—it can float in the atmosphere for hours after it comes into contact with cat hair and skin fragments. “Allergens from dogs do not remain in the air as long as those from cats do.” The size of the particles is ideal for deep lung breathing, according to Larché.

There might be an easier way to treat cat allergies in the near future. Fall phase 3 clinical trials for a vaccine against cat allergies, which Larché assisted in developing, are scheduled to start. According to early testing, the vaccine is safe and effective and doesn’t cause any of the common side effects of allergy shots, like skin reactions or breathing difficulties. The pharmaceutical companies Adiga Life Sciences and Circassia provide funding for Larché’s research.

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FAQ

Are dogs or cats more allergic?

Cat allergies are more common — and often more severe — than dog allergies. Cats lick and groom themselves frequently. The saliva that accumulates on their fur can dry and become airborne, causing allergic reactions when it’s inhaled.

What percentage of people are allergic to cats or dogs?

Allergies to cats and dogs affect 10 to 20% of the world’s population. Allergies to pets with fur, such as cats and dogs, are common.

Why are so many people allergic to cats?

Allergens from cats and dogs are found in skin cells the animals shed (dander), as well as in their saliva, urine and sweat and on their fur. Dander is a particular problem because it is very small and can remain airborne for long periods of time with the slightest bit of air circulation.

Can you be allergic to only male cats?

6. The amount of allergens that cats produce doesn’t differ from breed to breed, but does differ among individual cats. Cain says that male cats tend to produce more allergens than females. Among males, neutered cats produce less than intact ones.