Cat Allergies: It’s Not the Fur, But a Protein, Experts Say

For many cat lovers, the joy of a feline companion comes with a price: allergies. But what exactly *causes* these reactions? Contrary to popular belief, it’s not the cat’s fur itself, but a protein called Fel d 1, according to the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) Welfare. This protein is the primary allergen responsible for up to 96% of allergic sensitization in humans.

How Fel d 1 Spreads

Cats produce Fel d 1 in their saliva and sebaceous glands. When cats groom themselves, the protein is deposited onto their fur. As the cats move and interact with their environment, the protein becomes airborne through dander, flakes of skin, and saliva, making it easily inhalable for sensitive individuals.

How the Body Reacts to Fel d 1

When someone with a cat allergy comes into contact with Fel d 1, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat. This triggers an allergic reaction, leading to a variety of symptoms. Common symptoms include:

• Constant sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• Watery eyes
• Respiratory tract irritation

When to Seek Medical Attention

The IMSS recommends consulting a medical unit or IMSS Wellbeing Health Unit for assessment if you experience allergy symptoms. This is particularly important for individuals with asthma or pre-existing allergies, as Fel d 1 can cause serious inflammation, potentially leading to chronic rhinitis, asthma attacks, or even anaphylaxis.

Managing Cat Allergies

Controlling the environment is key to managing cat allergies. This includes regularly cleaning to eliminate accumulated hair, dander, and saliva – where the triggering allergen is located.

Mexico’s Healthcare System and Access to Care

These recommendations come as Mexico works towards a more unified healthcare system. Recent initiatives, including a national health credential and a shared medical record system, aim to improve access to care and streamline patient information across institutions like IMSS, ISSSTE, and IMSS-Bienestar ¹. The goal is to create a “single health system” with integrated clinical information and stronger primary care capacity, beginning in early 2026 ¹.

1. Sheinbaum, A. (2026, January 20). Can Mexico Connect Its Fragmented Health System by 2030?. Mexico Business News. https://mexicobusiness.news/health/news/can-mexico-connect-its-fragmented-health-system-2030