Some patients may experience a reduction or an increase in symptoms after long-term exposure. Some Facts Exposure to cat allergen is an important cause of allergic disease, especially asthma. Cat allergy is common among asthmatics, and a significant risk factor for ER visits with asthma. Patients who are allergic to cats often experience a rapid onset of symptoms. Cat allergen is found in the dander, saliva, exocrine glands, urinary and fecal proteins.
Male cats shed more allergen than female cats.
Cat dander is more allergenic than dogs. Environmental Control For several reasons, controlling the environment of a person allergic to cats is especially difficult. The allergen remains airborne in undisturbed conditions for extended periods of time. A significant portion is associated with particles less than 2.5 microns in diameter. Cat allergen adheres to walls and has been found in homes which have never had a cat as a pet.