If you notice you have cat allergies, try using an air cleaner to improve air quality and reduce your allergic symptoms.
If you love your cat but struggle with allergies or asthma, you're not alone. Many cat parents deal with sneezing, coughing, or even breathing problems caused by cat allergens floating around the home.
For years, air cleaners have been suggested as a possible solution. A study gives us an answer: yes, they can help, especially for people with asthma caused by cat allergies.
At Moricat, we’re here to break down the science in a way that’s easy to understand. Let’s take a look at what the study found, and how it can help you (and your cat!) breathe easier at home.
Cat allergens can last for a while in the air or environment.
Your cat doesn’t need to be right next to you for your allergies to act up. Things like cat dander (tiny bits of skin), saliva, and hair can stay in the air and on surfaces like your couch or clothes. These particles can cause allergic reactions, and for people with asthma, they can even make it hard to breathe.
Researchers wanted to see if air cleaners could really help during cat allergen exposure.
In this study, 24 people with mild asthma caused by cat allergies were exposed to cat allergens in a testing room. They tested using an air cleaner and how that affected allergens. The researchers found that air cleaners were able to prevent many asthma symptoms in people who had cat allergens such as Fel d 1.
A good air cleaner might really help reduce allergy and asthma symptoms at home.
If you have asthma or allergies caused by your cat, using a high-quality air cleaner may help lower your symptoms. This can lower allergens that are present and allow you to breathe better.
Just keep in mind: not all air cleaners are created equal. Home models with good filters (like HEPA filters) can still help remove cat allergens from the air.
You don’t have to give up your cat
With the right tools, you and your cat can live comfortably together.
Cat allergy or asthma doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your best furry friend. Start by using an air cleaner, cleaning regularly, and working with your doctor. Even small steps can make a big difference over time.
At Moricat, we’re here to support your journey with science-backed tips that make cat parenting easier and more joyful.
You don’t need to do everything at once. Try adding an air cleaner to your space and watch how it affects your breathing and overall comfort. Make sure to add the air cleaner in a space that you frequent to help reduce overall symptoms. This can include rooms such as your bedroom and living room. Every small step you take helps create a healthier, happier space for you and your cat.
Reference:
Gherasim, A., Jacob, A., Schoettel, F., Domis, N., & Blay, F. (2020). Efficacy of air cleaners in asthmatics allergic to cat in ALYATEC® environmental exposure chamber. Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 50(2), 160–169. https://doi.org/10.1111/cea.13511
Mayo Clinic. (2021, August 4). Pet allergy: Causes, Symptoms & Causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352192
Writen by: T.T.
