--- title: "A vaccine for those allergic to cats: what we know so far" id: "8058" type: "post" slug: "a-vaccine-for-those-allergic-to-cats" published_at: "2026-11-13T04:29:38+00:00" modified_at: "2026-11-13T05:19:36+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/a-vaccine-for-those-allergic-to-cats/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/a-vaccine-for-those-allergic-to-cats.md" excerpt: "This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised veterinary advice. Always speak with your vet about your pet’s individual health needs. Accurate as at 13 November 2026. Loving cats and being allergic to them can..." taxonomy_category: - "Facts & fun" --- [Back](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/facts-and-fun/) Facts & fun # A vaccine for those allergic to cats: what we know so far Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 13 Nov, 2026 - 11 min read *This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised veterinary advice. Always speak with your vet about your pet’s individual health needs. Accurate as at 13 November 2026.* Loving cats and being allergic to them can be a tricky combination. Cat allergies can make sharing your home with a feline friend challenging. And for some pet parents, they can even mean having to find their much-loved cat a new home. That’s why it’s encouraging to see researchers exploring new ways to manage cat allergies. One approach being investigated is a vaccine for those allergic to cats, with an interesting twist: it’s the cat who gets the vaccine, not you. But this vaccine is still experimental, and there’s a lot we don’t know yet, including what it could mean for cats themselves. So, let’s look at where the research is at, what other approaches are being explored, and what you can do right now to manage a cat allergy. **Table of contents** - [Why research into cat allergies matters](#why-research-into-cat-allergies-matters) - [What causes cat allergies?](#what-causes-cat-allergies) - [How a vaccine for those allergic to cats would work](#how-a-vaccine-for-those-allergic-to-cats-would-work) - [Is the cat allergy vaccine available yet?](#is-the-cat-allergy-vaccine-available-yet) - [What could a cat allergy vaccine mean for cats?](#what-could-a-cat-allergy-vaccine-mean-for-cats) - [Other approaches being explored](#other-approaches-being-explored) - [Managing cat allergies: current approaches](#managing-cat-allergies-current-approaches) - [Are there hypoallergenic cats?](#are-there-hypoallergenic-cats) - [If living with a cat isn’t the right fit](#if-living-with-a-cat-isnt-the-right-fit) - [A quick note on pet insurance](#a-quick-note-on-pet-insurance) ## Why research into cat allergies matters Research suggests allergies are one of the reasons some cats are surrendered or rehomed, although how often this happens varies quite a bit between studies. Some people with cat allergies also continue to live with their cats, although the severity of allergies and how manageable they are can vary from person to person. It’s a good idea to seek advice from a healthcare professional, who can discuss appropriate allergy-management strategies with you. So, new approaches that prove to be safe and effective could potentially help more cats stay in their homes and make allergies less of a barrier to pet ownership. The key words there are ‘safe and effective’, for both people and cats. Any new approach needs to be backed by solid scientific and veterinary evidence before it could be recommended. ## What causes cat allergies? Despite what many people think, it’s not cat fur itself that causes people to be allergic. One of the main allergens is a protein called Fel d 1. It’s produced mainly by glands in a cat’s skin and is also found in their saliva. When cats groom themselves, they spread it onto their fur. From there, it attaches to tiny flakes of skin (known as dander) and dust and makes its way around your home. Common cat allergy symptoms include sneezing, hay fever, itching, a rash (hives), and wheezing or asthma. In fact, cat allergy is the second most common cause of indoor respiratory allergies, after dust mites. ## How a vaccine for those allergic to cats would work Most allergy treatments focus on the person with the allergy. This vaccine takes a different approach. It’s given to cats, and it’s designed to prompt the cat’s immune system to make antibodies against its own Fel d 1 protein. The idea is that these antibodies bind to Fel d 1, so less of the allergen is available to trigger a reaction in people. However, as we’ll explore below, the research into this approach is still in its early stages. It’s also worth noting this isn’t one of the [routine cat vaccinations](https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-vaccinations-should-my-cat-receive/) your vet gives to help protect your cat from diseases like [cat flu](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/common-cat-diseases/) . Routine vaccinations are an important part of protecting your cat’s health. This experimental vaccine has a very different purpose. ## Is the cat allergy vaccine available yet? No, the vaccine is still experimental and hasn’t been approved for use in Australia. Here’s what the early research has found so far: - Cats given the vaccine produced antibodies against Fel d 1. - In one study, people with cat allergies took longer to develop symptoms when spending time with vaccinated cats. - No serious adverse effects in cats were reported in the early studies. And here’s what we don’t know yet: - Whether the vaccine reliably reduces allergy symptoms in everyday life, in real homes. - How long any effect lasts. - What the long-term effects might be for cats. - Whether the vaccine would be safe and suitable for every cat. The studies so far have also been small, and some didn’t compare the effects of the vaccine in vaccinated cats with those in cats who hadn’t received it. So, while the early findings are interesting, they’re a long way from showing the vaccine is a proven solution. ## What could a cat allergy vaccine mean for cats? When it comes to new approaches like this, it’s important to think about the cat, not just the potential benefits for people. Scientists still aren’t sure what the biological function of Fel d 1 is in cats. While several possible functions have been proposed, its role is not yet fully understood. And because the vaccine works by prompting a cat’s immune system to target one of its own proteins, the long-term safety of this approach for cats would need to be well established. Until there’s more evidence, the potential implications for cats’ health and welfare need to be fully understood and considered before an approach like this could be routinely recommended. We also need to understand whether an approach like this is safe and suitable for individual cats. If you come across claims about allergy-reducing products or treatments for cats, speak with your vet before using them. ## Other approaches being explored The vaccine isn’t the only approach researchers are looking into. There are a few other ways they’re exploring to help reduce the impact of cat allergens. Like the vaccine, these are still being studied, and more research is needed. Other approaches include: - **Specialised cat diets:** some cat foods contain an ingredient designed to bind to Fel d 1 in a cat’s saliva, so less active allergen ends up on their fur. Studies have found reductions in active Fel d 1, but more research is needed to understand how effective this approach is for managing cat allergies in people. - **Gene editing:** scientists are exploring whether gene-editing techniques could be used to reduce or prevent the production of Fel d 1. This research is at a very early stage, and the potential implications for cats’ health and welfare need further investigation. - **Treatments for people:** researchers are also exploring new antibody treatments and vaccines for people with cat allergies, some of which are in early clinical trials. These are developing areas of research, and more evidence is needed to understand their safety, effectiveness and potential implications for cats and people. For now, people with cat allergies should seek advice from a healthcare professional about appropriate allergy-management strategies. ## Managing cat allergies: current approaches While research continues, people with cat allergies should rely on established allergy-management strategies and advice from a healthcare professional. However, allergies can vary from person to person, so the approaches that may be appropriate will depend on the individual. Here are some options: - Speak with your GP or an allergy specialist to understand your allergy and the treatment options that suit you. - Follow your doctor’s advice on allergy treatment, keep your allergy and asthma action plans up to date, and check with your doctor before changing or stopping any medication. - Keep your bedroom and other key spaces cat-free. - Vacuum, dust, and wash bedding regularly. - Improve ventilation and consider using an air purifier. - Wash your hands after interacting with your cat and avoid touching your face. - Groom your cat regularly in a well-ventilated area or ask someone without allergies to do it for you. Depending on your individual allergy, your health care professional may recommend using a combination of approaches to help manage your symptoms and reduce your exposure to allergens. ## Are there hypoallergenic cats? It’s a question many cat lovers with allergies ask. There’s no such thing as a [completely hypoallergenic cat](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/hypoallergenic-cats-do-they-really-exist/) . All cats have the skin glands that produce allergens, so any cat can trigger a reaction, regardless of their breed or coat type. If you’re thinking about welcoming a cat into your family and someone at home has allergies, it’s worth speaking with your doctor first. Bringing a cat home is a long-term commitment and comes with an ongoing responsibility to meet their health and welfare needs, so it’s important to consider whether everyone in the household can comfortably and safely live with a cat. ## If living with a cat isn’t the right fit For some people, a cat allergy can’t be managed well enough to share a home with a cat. If that’s the case, there may be other ways you can share your life with animals. Allergies can be specific to certain animals, while some people are allergic to more than one. So, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor about allergy testing before considering another type of pet or activity involving animals. Here are some options: - Spending time with animals you know you’re not allergic to, considering whether another type of pet could be suitable for your individual allergy type - Becoming a dog walker, if dog walking is suitable for your individual allergy - Volunteering with a shelter or rescue group in a role that doesn’t involve direct contact with animals, such as helping at events or in an op shop - Getting out into nature, like bird watching or admiring local wildlife from a respectful distance ## A quick note on pet insurance A vaccine for those allergic to cats is an interesting area of research, but for now, it’s important to seek advice from your healthcare professional about appropriate ways to manage your allergy. And while you’re looking after your own health, it’s just as important to keep your cat’s wellbeing in mind. From staying on top of [vet visits](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/how-often-does-my-cat-need-to-visit-the-vet/) to meeting their individual needs, it’s all part of sharing life with a feline friend. [Pet insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/what-is-pet-insurance/) may help cover eligible vet bills for unexpected accidents or illnesses, depending on the policy’s terms, limits, and exclusions. While it doesn’t replace routine or preventive care, it can give you a little more confidence when your cat needs treatment. If you’ve been considering insuring your pet, [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) may be worth exploring. With cover you can customise to suit your cat’s needs and your budget, and every policy contributing to [the RSPCA’s vital work](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own cat and thousands of animals in need across Australia. To learn more about how RSPCA Pet Insurance could support you and your cat, explore our [cat insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/cat-insurance/) . Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free pet insurance quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. **References** [1] RSPCA Australia. *What vaccinations should my cat receive?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-vaccinations-should-my-cat-receive/](https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-vaccinations-should-my-cat-receive/) [2] RSPCA Australia. *Smart kitten and cat buyer’s guide.* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/bfd_download/smart-kitten-and-cat-buyers-guide-jul-2024](https://kb.rspca.org.au/bfd_download/smart-kitten-and-cat-buyers-guide-jul-2024) [3] Healthdirect Australia. *Cat and dog allergy.* Available from: [https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cat-and-dog-allergy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cat-and-dog-allergy) [4] Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy. *Pet allergy: frequently asked questions.* Available from: [https://allergy.org.au/images/pc/ASCIA_PC_Pet_Allergy_FAQ_2024.pdf](https://allergy.org.au/images/pc/ASCIA_PC_Pet_Allergy_FAQ_2024.pdf) [5] National Asthma Council Australia. *Pets and allergies fact sheet.* Available from: [https://files.nationalasthma.org.au/images/Pets-and-Allergies-Fact-Sheet-FINAL-2024_250326_104137_2026-05-08-080430_hsxl.pdf](https://files.nationalasthma.org.au/images/Pets-and-Allergies-Fact-Sheet-FINAL-2024_250326_104137_2026-05-08-080430_hsxl.pdf) [6] International Journal of Molecular Sciences. *Advance in managing indoor cat allergen proteins: molecular insights, detection, and control.* Available from: [https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262210913](https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262210913) [7] Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. *Human allergy to cats: a review of the impact on cat ownership and relinquishment.* Available from: [https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X211013016](https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X211013016) [8] Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. *Human allergy to cats: a review for veterinarians on prevalence, causes, symptoms and control.* Available from: [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8721530/](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8721530/) [9] RSPCA South Australia. *Pets for people with allergies.* Available from: [https://www.rspcasa.org.au/pets-for-people-with-allergies/](https://www.rspcasa.org.au/pets-for-people-with-allergies/) ## FAQs ### Is there a vaccine for people who are allergic to cats? Not exactly. Researchers are investigating a potential vaccine that’s given to cats rather than people. It’s designed to prompt a cat’s immune system to make antibodies against Fel d 1, the main protein responsible for cat allergies. It’s not available yet, and more research is needed to understand how well it works and what it could mean for cats’ health and welfare. ### What is Fel d 1? Fel d 1 is the main protein responsible for most cat allergies. It’s produced mainly in glands in a cat’s skin and is also found in their saliva. When cats groom themselves, they spread it onto their fur. From there, it can make its way onto furniture, into dust, and around your home. ### Are some cat breeds hypoallergenic? There’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat. All cats produce allergens, regardless of their breed, coat type, or how much fur they have. While some cats may produce fewer allergens than others, there’s no guarantee they won’t trigger an allergic reaction. If you have cat allergies, it’s important not to assume that choosing a particular breed will prevent an allergic reaction. ### Can you live with a cat if you’re allergic? For some people, yes. Keeping your cat out of the bedroom, washing your hands after interacting with your cat, and cleaning regularly may help reduce your exposure to cat allergens. However, allergies vary from person to person, and what works for one person may not be suitable or effective for another. Your GP or an allergy specialist can help you understand your allergy and explore treatment options. And if your allergy can’t be managed well enough, there are other ways to enjoy time with animals that may be worth exploring, like dog walking, wildlife watching or volunteering. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Related blogs [A simple pet vaccination schedule for Australian pet parents Sep 2026 - 5 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/pet-vaccination-schedule/) [What vaccinations do dogs and cats need? A simple guide Mar 2026 - 10 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/what-vaccinations-do-dogs-and-cats-need/) [Common household dangers every pet parent should know about Mar 2026 - 9 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/common-household-dangers/)