Allergy
Allergy Test – Cat Dander
Allergy
This blood test measures IgE antibodies against cat dander proteins (Fel d 1) to determine whether you have an allergic reaction to cats.
VAT-exempt medical service
Cat allergy is one of the most common pet allergies worldwide. The allergen Fel d 1, found in cat saliva, skin, and urine, becomes airborne and can trigger symptoms even without direct contact. This IgE blood test detects whether your immune system produces antibodies against cat dander, helping to confirm or rule out a cat allergy and guide appropriate treatment.
Testing is recommended if you experience sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, skin rashes, or asthma-like symptoms when near cats or in environments where cats live. It is also useful if you are considering getting a cat, if antihistamines provide temporary relief around cats, or if you want to differentiate cat allergy from other indoor allergens such as dust mites or mould.
What a high value can mean
Elevated IgE levels indicate that your immune system is producing antibodies against cat dander proteins. This supports a diagnosis of cat allergy and may explain symptoms such as rhinitis, conjunctivitis, eczema, or asthma when exposed to cats. The higher the IgE level, the stronger the sensitisation, although symptom severity can vary between individuals.
What a low value can mean
Low or undetectable IgE levels make a cat allergy unlikely. However, symptoms may still be caused by other indoor allergens such as dust mites, mould, or dog dander. If symptoms persist, further allergy testing may be warranted.
No special preparation is required. You do not need to fast. Take your ID with you to the sampling location. Bring valid ID to your appointment.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Yes. Cat allergies can develop at any age, even if you have lived with cats before without problems. Sensitisation can occur gradually over time.
Not necessarily. Depending on your sensitivity level and symptoms, strategies such as antihistamines, air purifiers, limiting cat access to bedrooms, and allergy immunotherapy can help manage exposure.
Both measure allergic sensitisation but work differently. The blood test measures IgE antibodies in your blood and can be done regardless of medication use, while a skin prick test measures the skin reaction directly.