Allergies and Russian blue

There are several people with allergies to cats who ask us about Russian blues, since the idea has spread that they do not cause allergies.

It is important to know that There are no hypoallergenic cats., of no breed, but breeds that for certain reasons generate a lower degree of allergy to those who suffer from it.

Before making drastic decisions such as getting rid of our cat, there are several options that can be tried and that will surely contribute to improving the health of the members of the family unit; Furthermore, it is important to know that after a period of living together for several months, a high percentage of allergic owners end up developing tolerance to their felines. From here I encourage you not to throw in the towel at the first opportunity!

If, on the other hand, we do not yet have a cat and we are thinking of acquiring one despite being allergic, it is best not to start the house with the roof: it would be good to visit a doctor, take a cat allergy test and design with it. the strategy to follow before the kitten comes home. It is important to be informed in advance of the possible solutions in case of an allergy episode.

To understand a little better what cat allergy consists of, we will talk about the most common case, which is allergy to the Fel D1 protein, although you can be allergic to any other pathogen.

The Fel D1 protein is present in the saliva and sebaceous glands of the skin of cats. In general terms, unsterilized cats secrete a greater amount of protein than sterilized cats and puppy cats tend to cause more allergies than adults, since they are developing their fur. Furthermore, also in general terms, males produce more protein than females and therefore, for someone who suffers from a cat allergy, the combination of a sterilized female will always be preferable, although as with everything, there may be exceptions. Furthermore, each cat will have a different protein production capacity and the allergy it generates in its owner will largely depend on this.

People say that Russian blue causes a lower degree of allergy to those who suffer from it, or at least it is on the lists of breeds that cause the lowest degree of allergy. This may be due to their double coat of hair, which makes it easier for the protein to stay closer to their body and not shed so much dandruff that it is contained with the hair that falls out.

Furthermore, a cat allergy will be more likely and/or more intense if you also have an allergy to other pathogens such as dust, pollen, etc. or you are asthmatic.

If you suffer from an allergy, it will be necessary to establish routine hygiene guidelines that must be strictly followed:

· Wash your hands after petting the cat, although we should avoid petting it as much as possible during the first weeks after it arrives home, until we know how we react to it.

· It will be necessary to brush the cat at least once a week. This task, if possible, will be carried out by any member of the family unit who does not suffer from allergies. The Russian Blue is a short-haired, indoor cat, therefore, we will not notice strong seasonal hair shedding and weekly brushing will be more than enough to remove any dead hair that falls off.

· There are lotions that can be applied after brushing and that reduce the symptoms by 60-80%, and can even disappear completely if you are not allergic to any other substance.

· In the first months the cat will receive a monthly bath, again and if possible, by someone in the family unit who does not suffer from allergies. We can gradually extend the interval between baths by observing the allergic reaction.

· The cat will be prohibited from entering the rest room of the allergic person. The bed and other furniture should not come into contact with the feline.

· It is important not to have too many rugs, cushions, or other surfaces in the home that can "store" cat hair or dander. The cat's utensils such as the bed, blankets and other fabrics should be washed regularly.

· We will ventilate the rooms whenever possible, leaving the cat in an isolated room during the operation, to prevent it from escaping.

· Forced ventilation heating and air conditioning can spread allergens throughout the house; It will be important to take precautions, especially in the bedroom, where it is recommended to cover the filters with a thick cloth.

Finally, at a medical level there are vaccines that, although not a definitive cure, can alleviate the symptoms of those who suffer from allergies.

As natural remedies, eucalyptus oil can be a good relief from episodes of cough or nasal congestion and aloe vera can help with skin problems.