Cape Town – One in five people suffer from cat allergies worldwide, making it the most common animal-origin allergy in humans.
To support those affected by cat allergies, Nestlé Purina PetCare has unveiled LiveClear, a formula of cat food designed to neutralise cat allergies.
Allergic reactions to cats in people are mainly caused by a protein called Fel d 1 found in cat saliva and sebaceous glands, which is spread onto the cat’s fur during grooming.
Purina’s research team have discovered that an egg product ingredient containing antibodies to Fel d 1 could bind to this allergen in the cat’s saliva, preventing it from causing allergic reactions in sensitised individuals.
This novel approach does not interfere with the natural production of Fel d 1 but neutralises its allergenic potential after it is produced before it is spread into the environment.
When cats were fed a diet containing this ingredient, significant reductions in active Fel d 1 levels in the cats’ saliva were observed within three weeks.
A comprehensive study of the effects of Purina’s LiveClear found that 97% of cats experienced a decrease in active Fel d 1 levels, with an average reduction of 47%, thereby reducing allergic symptoms in humans.2,3,4
South African singer, Mike Huff, whose wife is a cat lover with 3 kitties, shares his experience after feeding LiveClear to their cats.
“Since having this cat food, it’s been a total miracle. I’ve been able to pet the cats and they sleep on my lap and for me, there’s absolutely no effect. It’s been extraordinary,” he said.
“With musicals being my main source of income, it’s so important that I am able to keep my voice strong and clear.
“Since putting the cats on to this food, I have none of my usual allergy symptoms, there’s absolutely no effect.”
This new approach has profound implications for both veterinary and human medical fields.
By incorporating LiveClear into their dietary regimen, cat owners can reduce their allergen exposure significantly, potentially lowering the reliance on medications and other traditional allergy management techniques.
“LiveClear offers a transformative approach to managing cat allergens, enabling cat owners to maintain a meaningful relationship with their pets without the adverse effects of allergies,” said Marianne Lomberg, Veterinarian and Business Executive Officer for Purina in South Africa.
“This innovation allows healthcare providers to offer proactive solutions to cat-allergic patients, focusing on reducing allergen exposure without the emotional and physical toll of allergy symptoms or having to get rid of their beloved pet.”
Purina ProPlan’s LiveClear is poised to revolutionise the management of cat allergies, bringing relief to millions of cat owners worldwide.
This development offers a new avenue for treating patients with cat allergies, promoting a healthier and more harmonious coexistence between humans and their feline companions.
For more detailed information on the research and clinical findings, visit www.purina.co.za
