Truly allergen-free cats are a myth. However, biotechnology may help where genetics has failed, writes Sarah Zhang. An obnoxious little protein, Fel d 1, found in feline saliva and oil glands causes most cat allergies. Zhang discusses the various ways scientists have been working to reduce the production of Fel d 1 with diets and immune approaches.
Source: The Atlantic, November 5, 2021. Link. The high variability of allergen levels from cat to cat does suggest that reducing Fel d 1 shouldn’t have massive consequences. And indeed, the studies on cats fed with the anti–Fel d 1 kibble and those given the vaccine haven’t found significant adverse effects associated with reducing levels of the protein.