Scientists supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found that, during the first years of their lives, children raised in a house with two or more dogs and cats may be less likely to develop allergic diseases as compared with children raised without pets. The striking finding here is that high pet exposure early in life appears to protect children from not only pet allergy but also other types of common allergies, such as allergy to house dust mites, ragweed, and grass. (See page 28 of the April 2003 NIAID publication on airborne allergens.)

One specific protein, Fel d 1, produced in the cat's skin and salivary glands causes an allergic response in 95 percent of people with cat allergies. Cica Cattery is participating in a research study being conducted at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine that will analyze levels of Fel d 1 in a variety of cat breeds, particularly those that appear to be hypoallergenic. Researchers hope to identify naturally occurring DNA variants in the cats that result in low allergen production. (See page 29 of the 2007 sponsorship guide of the Morris Animal Foundation.)

Maria is glad to provide the following services to people who suffer from cat allergies:

Fur Testing: To those who have submitted a wait list registration, Maria will mail fur samples or T-shirts with fur from breeding pairs soon to have litters for a shipping fee of $10.

Saliva Testing: For those who have reserved a kitten, but at their expense, Maria will arrange for analysis of a sample of the parents' saliva.