can i have a cat if i have asthma

Probably. This is combined with very heavy breathing, and it typically indicates that your cat is havi… As well as asthma symptoms, you might have other symptoms like an itchy, watery nose and eyes, sneezing and coughing. Clinical Signs Cats suffering from asthma may show signs of difficulty breathing, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing or hacking, open-mouthed breathing, or vomiting. During an asthma attack, many cats hunch their body close to the groun… Scaly animals such as fish, frogs, turtles, lizards and snakes could make good pets for people with asthma because they don't shed dander (skin flakes) and are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. More on cookies | privacy. Can you offer any insight into what it’s like to live with a cat with asthma? Can I still get a cat even though I have asthma? to talk about it with friends, family, or a counselor. If your children love animals but can't keep a household pet, here are some other ways they could feel connected to an animal: Some people are allergic to farm animals like cows, sheep and chickens, as well as small animals that are often found in petting zoos, like guinea pigs and rabbits. The short answer here is that absolutely yes, cats are very regularly diagnosed with asthma. Feline asthma-very similar to human asthma-is a chronic inflammation of the small passageways of a cat’s lungs. Even though these conditions have different anatomical origins, both can have symptoms that sound and look very similar. Yet, even if exposure triggers symptoms, this doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t own a pet. The clinical presentation of an asthmatic cat is typically a cat who coughs, usually a deep, dry cough. Registered charity in England and Wales (326730), Scotland (SC038415) and the Isle of Man (1177). Even if you re-home your pet, you may still have symptoms for some time. Animal allergies can develop at any stage of life. Lots of pets can trigger allergic asthma symptoms, from cats, dogs and horses, to rabbits, hamsters, mice and gerbils, and birds. This is a natural part of losing But being around dogs, cats and other furry or feathered pets could also trigger an asthma attack. cage daily. This IS only a suggestion, as the "JURY IS OUT" as to whether some breeds are TRULY less likely to cause allergies - some people claim this IS the case, others disagree. makes symptoms worse. By Madeline R. … You might be allergic to just one type of animal or more than one. If you think your asthma symptoms are triggered by a reptile or amphibian, you can ask your GP if you need an allergy test. Also make sure that the pet's cage isn't near any drafts. Yes you can. When a cat has an asthma fare up, the cat’s airway will swell and constrict. the room. If you'd like more support and information you can speak to an asthma nurse specialist on our Helpline on 0300 222 5800 or message them on WhatsApp on 07378 606 728 (9am - 5pm, Mon – Fri). Cat asthma and hairballs affect different organs in the body. You may want to be so busy so If you go to house where there is a pet, take any prescription a while before your symptoms improve. If your asthma symptoms get better after being away from your pet – for example on holiday – you may be allergic to them. I usually suggest one puff twice a day into the mask and then make sure the cat takes five inhalations. Remember, though, that moving your pet to a different room or outside may not prevent asthma symptoms, because the allergens can stay in your carpet, furniture and clothes. Si tengo asma, ¿puedo conservar mi mascota? Some people believe that some pets - including certain breeds of cats and dogs - are ‘hypoallergenic’ and safe for people with asthma, but research shows there’s no such thing as a truly non-allergenic pet. Cats have been the biggest cause of my Asthma for some 80 years, my family always kept cats; BUT when I went away to places without cats I immediately improved. It can be really upsetting to find out that your family pet is making your asthma worse. flare-ups, you might need to find another home for your pet. Many people with asthma or COPD find they have an allergic reaction to certain animals. All rights reserved. other things that can make asthma symptoms worse, like: And any animal that lives in a cage — from birds to gerbils — will Have someone else wash and brush your pet every week (cats as well as dogs). People often think their asthma is triggered by animal hair, but if pets are a trigger for you, you’re probably allergic to proteins found in the animal's flakes of skin (dander), saliva, urine or even fine particles from bird feathers known as ‘feather dust’. Feline asthma is a lifelong disease that can be severe or mild, and it typically waxes and wanes over time. Lots of people with asthma are allergic to animals. I just don't get anywhere near cats. If your pet triggers your asthma, these tips might help: If you have a bird, gerbil, or other small caged animal, move the cage out of your The disease is fairly rare—it is only found in 1 to 5% of cats. Touching or inhaling these allergens causes your immune system to overreact, leading to your asthma symptoms getting worse. When a cat has asthma, he or she may present some or all of these symptoms: Persistent coughing Wheezing Difficulty breathing after exercise or playtime Weakness Lethargy Gagging Foamy mucous Blue lips and gums Something else that your cat might experience is the need to squat with his or her shoulders hunched and its neck extended. © 1995-document.write(KHcopyDate); The Nemours Foundation. Some breeds of dog claim to be “ hypoallergenic ” because they shed less than other breeds or because their coat is different. that they make it hard to eat, sleep, or concentrate. The end result is a cat who struggles to breathe. How to cut your risk of animals triggering your asthma. A Cornish Rex Cat with a beautiful tabby coat walking through the grass. Some people have animal allergens, which means they're allergic to the proteins found Steps. Even if you had a pet when you were younger and didn’t react to it, you could be allergic to the same type of animal now. Registered office: 18 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AA. You can, but reduce the allergens if possible. Take a deep breath, and know that this is treatable, and cats with asthma can live long, comfortable lives with the proper treatment. Note: All information on TeensHealth® is for educational purposes only. When asthma is present in your cat, her airways can become inflamed and constricted, and she may experience coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Ask a doctor though if your asthma is severe. Asthma affects the airways, while hairballs affect the stomach, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. Some can keep their pets — and others can't. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, If you try all these things and are still having lots of asthma in: Besides carrying dander, spit, or pee, animal fur or feathers also can collect Don’t be tempted to buy a home allergy testing kit – these may not be reliable. The protein in your pet’s saliva and dander (the dead skin that flakes off your dog or cat) causes the allergic reaction. When asthmatic airways constrict, it can become difficult to … What Is Feline Asthma? If you're confident that you (and anyone else who lives with you) don't have an allergy to animals, it's okay to have a pet if you have asthma. What's an Animal Allergen? You don't have to give up your pets if they trigger your asthma symptoms – but you will have to take precautions to avoid asthma attacks. A cat will cough up a hairball eventually, a cat with asthma will cough endlessly. Asthma can cause your cat to cough and then it will appear to be fine but it is a slowly progressing condition with no cure. room. It’s expensive. Play with your pet but try not hug it or kiss it. How do you know if animals trigger your asthma? There is no right or wrong way to handle feelings of loss. 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