We don’t see pet dander and we don’t see the other airborne particles and pollutants in the air in our homes. Dander flies around homes and settles on furniture. It carries the cat allergen Fel D1.
As humans interpret their world visually, this lack of visual recognition can lead to us being complacent about cat dander’s role in triggering or exacerbating sinusitis which is very prevalent in humans. Sinusitis affects approximately 12% of the global population annually. Chronic sinusitis impacts 8-10% of adults, with increased prevalence in individuals with allergies, asthma, or respiratory infections.
Sinusitis is a problematic health issue. It is difficult to deal with. There are over-the-counter treatments but they are a reactive process and they can make things worse (rebound congestion). Proactive steps are better.
Note: the top image in the infographic is from the microlabgallery.com website.
First-hand
I have first-hand experience of sinusitis and it concerns me greatly. My cat might be making things worse or even triggering it which is why I am running a Levoit air purifier as I type this. I am conducting an experiment to see if my sinusitis improves solely by focusing on cleaning the air inside my home with a particular focus on pet dander. Initial assessments indicate some improvement to my sinusitis.
Like other cat owners I notice the tumbleweed hair strands from my cat conglomerating in the corners of my kitchen. A reminder of the presence of invisible to the naked eye of cat dander in the air.
For a long time, I have considered the potential problem of cat dander triggering my sinusitis. However, I would never abandon my cat if it does. I’ll just find a way to minimise the problem. It would be a common-sense, cat welfare focused balanced decision which I am sure is how most people would respond.
More: cat dander
Note: humans also create dander! And there are many other airborne particles from various sources including from the outside than can exacerbate sinusitis.
P.S. A humidifier in the home might help alleviate sinusitis by hydrating the sinus fluid so that it drains more efficiently.
