Scientists have explained the influence of cats on the course of asthma in children

Living with cats does not worsen the course of asthma in children with allergies, scientists from the Karolinska Institute (Sweden) came to this conclusion after analyzing data from more than 30,000 young patients. This was reported on June 10 in the journal Medical Xpress.

She also clarified that there were no differences depending on the number of cats, their gender or age. In 2023, the team began monitoring a cohort of 30,277 children between the ages of four and 17 who were born between 2006 and 2020 and were diagnosed with asthma or respiratory tract allergies. For two years, the researchers recorded diagnoses, emergency hospitalizations, prescribed medications, spirometry results, and control tests.

Experts talked about the benefits and hidden risks of sleeping with animals

Since registration of cats in Sweden is mandatory from 2023, the authors could determine with sufficient accuracy whether there is a pet in the household. 9.4% of the participants' families had cats. Moderate or severe asthma was recorded in 9.6% of children who had contact with cats, and 10.1% without such contact. Exacerbations were noted in 3.3% and 3.5%, respectively. No significant differences in lung function were found in the subgroup of 1,428 children with spirometry data.

According to Putri, one explanation is the widespread presence of the cat allergen outside the home: children can come into contact with it in schools or public transport, so there is no fundamental difference between the groups. The researcher made a reservation that data on specific allergens to which children are sensitized were not taken into account in the work.

On April 15, veterinarians of the State Veterinary Service compiled a guide on how to arrange a happy life for a pet. Experts recommended keeping scales in the kitchen for precise control of food portions, as well as two bowls for water and food. Special brushes should be provided for hair care.