Associations of cat allergens with related allergic diseases

Cat allergens are one of the most important environmental factors which contribute to the development of allergic diseases. The global popularity of pet cat ownership in recent years has led to an increase in the incidence of allergic diseases associated with cat allergens. Studies have shown that pet cats can induce type I hypersensitivity-related diseases such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis in atopic individuals through allergens present in their dander, saliva, urine, and other substances. Currently, the specific mechanism by which cat allergens induce immune tolerance is not fully understood. In addition, due to multiple sensitization and cross-reactivity, the effects of cat allergens interacting with other pet allergens (e.g., dog allergens) and air pollutants on the development of allergic diseases are unclear. Therefore, this review summarized recent advances in the epidemiology of cat allergens sensitization, underlying mechanisms, cat allergens exposure and sensitization risk, component resolved diagnostics, treatment, and prevention, aiming to provide references for clinical strategies in prevention, diagnosis and management.