A cat allergy is an immune system overreaction to proteins found in a cat’s saliva, urine, and dander, which are mistaken for a threat. The primary protein responsible for this reaction is called Fel d 1, which is highly potent and easily spread throughout the environment. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a medical approach that directly addresses this immune response rather than simply masking the resulting symptoms. Yes, you can receive a shot for cat allergies, and this treatment is known as AIT.
Understanding Allergen Immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy, often referred to as allergy shots, is a long-term treatment designed to modify the body’s immune response to cat allergens. Unlike standard medications that offer temporary relief, AIT works to fundamentally change how the immune system reacts. The process involves regular injections of a standardized extract of the cat allergen, specifically targeting sensitivity to the Fel d 1 protein. This therapy requires an initial diagnosis by an allergist, confirmed through skin prick or blood tests. The shots, containing tiny amounts of the protein, are typically administered under the skin in the upper arm to slowly teach the immune system tolerance.
The Biological Process of Desensitization
The effectiveness of AIT stems from the biological process of desensitization, which fundamentally re-trains the immune system. When a cat-allergic person is exposed to Fel d 1, their immune system produces high levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These IgE antibodies attach to mast cells and, upon re-exposure, trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals like histamine, which cause allergy symptoms.
The immunotherapy shots work by gradually shifting the immune response away from this IgE-mediated reaction. Repeated, controlled exposure prompts the body to produce immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, often called “blocking antibodies.” These IgG antibodies circulate in the bloodstream and intercept the Fel d 1 allergen before it can bind to the IgE on the mast cells. This interception prevents the chain reaction that leads to the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing symptoms.
The Treatment Timeline and Commitment
Committing to cat allergy shots requires a significant time investment, as the treatment follows a structured two-phase timeline. The first phase is the build-up phase, where the concentration of the allergen is gradually increased over several months. Injections are administered frequently, typically once or twice per week, until the patient reaches the highest safe and effective dose. This phase usually lasts between three and six months.
Once the patient reaches the maintenance dose, they transition into the second phase. Injections become much less frequent, usually given every two to four weeks. This maintenance phase is sustained for three to five years to ensure the immune system’s changes are long-lasting. Patients must remain at the clinic for a period of observation after each injection to monitor for adverse reactions.
Non-Injectable Treatment Options
For individuals seeking immediate symptom relief or those unable to commit to the long-term injection schedule, several effective non-injectable options are available. Pharmaceutical treatments target the chemicals released during an allergic reaction, providing rapid relief without altering the underlying immune response. These include oral antihistamines, which block the effects of histamine, and nasal corticosteroid sprays, which reduce inflammation within the nasal passages. Leukotriene modifiers are another class of medication that blocks chemical messengers involved in the allergic cascade. These pharmaceutical options manage the outward signs of the allergy but must be taken regularly to maintain effectiveness.
Environmental control measures are equally important for reducing daily allergen exposure and minimizing symptoms. Strategies for lowering the allergen load in the home include:
- Using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in bedrooms and living areas.
- Using vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters to clean carpets.
- Restricting the cat’s access to the bedroom.
- Washing all bedding in hot water weekly.