Question 1

What is Cat Allergy?

Accepted Answer

Cat allergy is an immune system reaction to proteins found in cat dander, saliva, and urine. It is caused by the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to cat allergen proteins, primarily Fel d 1. The Respiratory Allergy Panel is the most important test for diagnosis as it measures specific IgE antibodies to cat dander and distinguishes cat allergies from other respiratory conditions.

Question 2

What causes cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

Cat allergy is caused by proteins found in cat dander (dead skin flakes), saliva, and urine, with Fel d 1 being the primary allergenic protein. When you breathe in these microscopic particles or touch surfaces where cats have been, your immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless proteins as dangerous invaders and produces IgE antibodies to fight them. This immune response triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms like sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and skin reactions.

Question 3

What is the best test for cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Panel is the most important test for cat allergy because it measures specific IgE antibodies to cat dander proteins in your blood, providing objective confirmation of your sensitivity. The Respiratory Allergy Panel Region IV (for Florida, south of Orlando) and the Respiratory Allergy Profile Region IX (for Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota) both include cat dander testing along with other regional allergens, helping identify whether cats are the true culprit behind your symptoms. These blood tests are particularly valuable because they provide accurate results regardless of whether you are currently taking antihistamines, unlike skin prick tests which require you to stop medications beforehand.

Question 4

When should I get tested for cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, or wheezing when around cats or in homes where cats live. Testing is especially important if you are considering getting a cat as a pet, if your symptoms interfere with daily activities or sleep, or if you have asthma that worsens with cat exposure. Early diagnosis through blood testing allows you to implement effective management strategies and avoid severe allergic reactions or asthma complications.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

Cat allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, and skin reactions like hives or rashes where a cat has licked or scratched you. Some people experience facial pressure and pain, postnasal drip, and frequent awakening at night due to congestion. In individuals with asthma, cat exposure can trigger serious breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and audible wheezing that requires immediate attention.

Question 6

Who is at risk for cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of allergies or asthma are at higher risk for developing cat allergy, as allergic tendencies run in families. Children exposed to cats early in life may develop sensitivity, though some research suggests early exposure might actually reduce risk. Those with existing allergies to other animals, pollen, or dust mites are more likely to develop cat allergies due to cross-reactivity between allergen proteins.

Question 7

What happens if cat allergy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated cat allergy can lead to chronic sinusitis, persistent nasal congestion, and sleep disruption that affects your quality of life and daily productivity. Ongoing exposure without proper management can worsen existing asthma or trigger the development of asthma in previously unaffected individuals, potentially leading to serious breathing complications. Chronic inflammation from untreated allergies may also increase your risk of developing additional allergies and respiratory conditions over time.

Question 8

Can cat allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, cat allergy can be accurately diagnosed with a blood test that measures specific IgE antibodies to cat allergen proteins like Fel d 1. Blood tests offer several advantages over skin testing, including no need to stop antihistamines beforehand, no risk of triggering a severe allergic reaction during testing, and the ability to test multiple allergens simultaneously. The test results show the level of antibodies in your blood, with higher levels indicating a stronger allergic sensitivity to cats.

Question 9

How is cat allergy treated?

Accepted Answer

Cat allergy is treated through a combination of allergen avoidance, medications, and sometimes immunotherapy for long-term relief. Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and decongestants help control symptoms, while allergy shots or sublingual tablets can gradually desensitize your immune system to cat allergens over several years. If you own a cat, keeping the cat out of your bedroom, using HEPA air filters, bathing the cat weekly, and regularly cleaning surfaces can significantly reduce allergen exposure and symptom severity.

Question 10

How can I prevent cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

Preventing cat allergy symptoms requires minimizing exposure to cat allergens by avoiding homes with cats when possible and washing your hands immediately after touching cats. If you have a cat at home, create cat-free zones especially in bedrooms, use HEPA air purifiers throughout your living space, remove carpeting and upholstered furniture where dander accumulates, and have someone without allergies brush the cat outdoors regularly. Keeping cats strictly indoors can reduce outdoor allergen exposure, and bathing cats weekly can temporarily reduce the amount of allergen they shed, though this effect is short-lived.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with cat allergy?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that may help with cat allergy symptoms include using a saline nasal rinse to flush allergens from nasal passages, which can provide immediate relief from congestion and irritation. Local honey has been suggested to help build tolerance to allergens, though scientific evidence is limited for pet allergies specifically. Adding omega-3 fatty acids through fish oil supplements may help reduce inflammation, while butterbur and quercetin supplements show promise in some studies for reducing histamine release, though you should consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Cat Allergy Blood Test

What is Cat Allergy?

What causes cat allergy?

What is the best test for cat allergy?

When should I get tested for cat allergy?

References

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