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Can kitten allergy in family members make me allergic too?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am thinking about getting a kitten, my father and brother are allergic to it. So, it will be kept in the upper room. I want to know if I have the same allergies. During my college days, I have spent six years with cats, never touched them but you could see them walking around, some even came close and hid under my tables.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Allergy can run in families, you have a chance of being allergic as your father and brother are allergic to cats but not a must. Being close to cats in the past for many years is a good indicator that you might not be allergic to cats but still allergy can develop at any age. You can do a skin allergy test by a dermatologist (skin doctor) to know if you are allergic to cats or not.

Investigations to be done

Skin allergy test.

Probable diagnosis

?Allergy.

Preventive measures

Avoid contact with cats, if proved to be allergic.

Medically reviewed byDr. Divya Banu M

Published At May 29, 2019
Reviewed AtFebruary 23, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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