Cat allergies are related to a number of other conditions, including other allergies. People with pollen or dust mite allergies may be more likely to also have cat allergies. Also, people with outdoor allergies might experience reactions after contact with a cat, even if they do not have a cat allergy. This is because outdoor allergens such as pollen and mold can get caught in the cat’s hair.

Specific allergies are not inherited, though the tendency to develop an allergy is inherited. If a parent is allergic to dander, for instance, a child has a higher likelihood of developing an allergy of some type, although not necessarily to dander. The risk of developing an allergy is much higher if both parents have allergies. People who are prone to develop allergies are said to be atopic.

Cat allergies are related to other medical conditions including:

• Allergic rhinitis. An inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the nose causing nasal congestion, sniffling and sneezing. Cat allergens can cause allergic rhinitis.
  
  
• Allergic conjunctivitis. An inflammation of the tissue lining the inside of the eyelid that produces irritation and tearing of the eyes. Cat allergies can cause acute allergic conjunctivitis symptoms.
  
  
• Contact dermatitis. An inflammation of the skin that is caused by direct contact with an allergen. A red, bumpy rash may appear when the skin comes into direct contact with the proteins in cat dander, saliva, blood or urine.
  
  
• Asthma. A condition in which the airways become blocked or narrowed causing shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Asthma can be allergic and non-allergic in origin. Cat allergens can cause both acute and chronic asthma symptoms. The incidence of asthma-like symptoms in cat owners is significantly higher than those who are exposed to other animals. There is also evidence to suggest that people with cat allergies are at increased risk of developing chronic asthma. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), cats can cause severe asthma attacks in approximately 20 to 30 percent of people with asthma. Cat induced asthma can be very severe and can occur very quickly.