Managing Cat Owner Allergies through Grooming

Better Cat Grooming

Man sitting on couch holding cat while surrounded by used tissues and medicine

by Lynn Paolillo

at allergies are a common concern among cat owners, affecting millions of people worldwide. As professional pet groomers, understanding the causes of cat allergies and how grooming practices can alleviate symptoms is essential for providing the best care and help to both cats and their owners. The following explores the causes of cat allergies, the role of grooming in reducing allergens and tips for educating clients on maintaining an allergy-friendly home environment.

Cat Allergies

Cat allergies are primarily caused by a protein called Fel d 1, which is found mostly in a cat’s saliva, but also in their skin glands and urine. When cats groom themselves, Fel d 1 is deposited onto their fur. As the saliva dries, the protein becomes airborne and can easily spread throughout the home, adhering to surfaces such as furniture, carpets and clothing. It will also “hitch a ride” on dead hair when it sheds and releases from the cat’s coat. When inhaled, Fel d 1 can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, ranging from mild symptoms like sneezing and itching to more severe reactions such as asthma attacks.

It’s important for groomers to understand that Fel d 1 is not limited to long-haired or short-haired cats; all cats produce this protein, making it a universal concern for allergy sufferers. However, the amount of Fel d 1 produced can vary depending on the cat’s age, sex and health status, with intact males typically producing higher levels of the protein. Contrary to old wives’ tales and some marketing claims, there are no cat breeds that consistently produce lower levels of Fel d 1.

Iv San Bernard

Pet Skin Academy

Reduce Allergens

One of the most effective ways to reduce the presence of allergens on the cat and in the home is through regular grooming. Bathing a cat not only helps to remove loose, dead hair, but also reduces the buildup of dried saliva and Fel d 1 on the cat’s coat. While some cat owners might be hesitant to bathe their cats—especially if they believe that haircuts alone will suffice— it’s crucial to educate them on the benefits of a bath and blow-dry over a simple haircut.

Regular baths can significantly decrease the amount of Fel d 1 present on a cat’s fur. It’s recommended to bathe a cat every four to six weeks, depending on the cat’s tolerance and the owner’s needs. For cats with a particularly high allergen count, or cat owners with more severe allergy symptoms, more frequent bathing might be necessary.

After a bath, a thorough blow-dry is essential. Blow-drying with an HV dryer helps to remove any remaining dead hair before it can shed around the cat’s home.

While trimming a cat’s fur might seem like a logical step to reduce shedding and allergens, it’s not nearly as effective as bathing and blow-drying. Haircuts do not address the underlying issue of dander and saliva on the cat’s coat. Educating clients on the limited benefits of haircuts versus the comprehensive approach of regular bathing and blow-drying can help manage their expectations and improve allergy symptoms.

Learn More

Allergy-Friendly Home

In addition to regular grooming, there are several steps that cat owners can take to reduce allergens in their home. As a professional groomer, you can offer valuable advice to your clients on how to create an environment that minimizes the impact of cat allergies. Here are some tips you can share:

Frequent Cleaning: Encourage clients to vacuum and dust their homes regularly, focusing on areas where their cat spends the most time. Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can help trap allergens more effectively. Washable covers on furniture and bedding can also reduce the accumulation of allergens.

Air Purifiers: Suggest investing in high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters for the rooms where the cat spends the most time. These devices can help reduce airborne allergens, making the environment more comfortable for allergy sufferers.

Wash Cat Bedding and Toys: Remind clients to wash their cat’s bedding, blankets and toys regularly. These items can harbor a significant amount of dander and should be cleaned with hypoallergenic detergent.

Limit Access to Bedrooms: Encourage clients to keep their cat out of bedrooms, particularly the rooms where the allergic individuals sleep. Bedrooms should be a sanctuary from allergens, and limiting the cat’s access can significantly reduce symptoms.

Grooming at Home: While professional grooming is essential, clients can also perform regular grooming tasks at home, such as brushing their cat with an appropriate tool that reduces dander and loose fur. Recommend brushes and combs that are effective for their cat’s coat type and provide tips on how to use them safely.

Barkleigh Store - Groom Curriculum Advertisement

Learn More

Reduces Fel D 1

In recent years, advances in pet nutrition have led to the development of a new cat food designed to reduce the amount of Fel d 1 protein produced by cats. This innovative approach to managing cat allergies can be a game-changer for allergy sufferers. The formula works by introducing a specific protein that binds to Fel d 1 in the cat’s saliva, reducing the active Fel d 1 protein released when the cat grooms itself. Studies have shown that feeding this diet can lead to a significant reduction in the amount of Fel d 1 on the cat’s fur, thereby decreasing the allergen load in the home.

While this food is not a cure for cat allergies, it can be an effective tool in a comprehensive allergy management plan, alongside regular grooming and home-cleaning practices. If you do inform your clients about this new option, be sure to encourage them to first discuss the food change with their veterinarian.

orange cat sitting with illustrations of allergen icons floating around it

As professional groomers, we play a crucial role in helping cat owners manage the symptoms of cat allergies. By understanding the causes of these allergies and implementing effective grooming practices, we can significantly reduce the presence of allergens in the home. Educating clients on the importance of regular grooming, the benefits of bathing and blow-drying, and maintaining a clean home environment will not only improve their quality of life, but also strengthen the bond between them and their feline companions.

Additionally, staying informed about new developments in pet care, such as the introduction of allergy-reducing cat food, allows us to offer comprehensive advice and solutions to our clients. In doing so, we can enhance our reputation as knowledgeable and compassionate professionals dedicated to the wellbeing of both cats and their owners.

Back to Issue