After how long does a cat allergy start? - briefly
Cat allergy symptoms typically begin within minutes to a few hours after exposure to cat dander, saliva, or urine.
After how long does a cat allergy start? - in detail
Cat allergies typically begin to manifest within minutes to a few hours after exposure to allergens, which are primarily found in cat dander, saliva, and urine. The timing and severity of symptoms can vary significantly depending on an individual's sensitivity, the level of exposure, and their immune system's response. When a person with a cat allergy comes into contact with these allergens, their immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful and releases histamines and other chemicals to combat the perceived threat. This immune response leads to symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, or skin rashes. In some cases, symptoms may appear almost immediately, especially in individuals with heightened sensitivity, while others may experience a delayed reaction several hours later. Repeated exposure to cats can also exacerbate symptoms over time, making them more pronounced or persistent. It is important to note that even if a person has not previously shown signs of a cat allergy, prolonged or frequent exposure to cats can trigger the onset of symptoms in some individuals.