Reducing the major cat allergen
After more than a decade of research, Nestlé Purina scientists discovered that a feline diet coated with an egg product ingredient containing antibodies to Fel d 1, the major cat allergen, can neutralize Fel d 1 at its source in the cat’s saliva.
As the cat chews the kibble, the anti-Fel d 1 antibodies bind to the active Fel d 1 in the cat's saliva. Once active Fel d 1 is bound to the antibodies, it is neutralized because it is no longer recognized as an allergen in the environment and does not trigger an allergic response in people sensitized to Fel d 1.
This breakthrough approach can transform the management of cat allergies as it provides an additional measure that can be integrated into current care pathways, while allowing the cat to remain in its loving home.
More than 10 years of research to establish the efficacy and safety of the approach
Leverages the natural antibody-antigen interaction of validated IgY technology
Egg-based ingredient is safe for cats and is coated on a complete and balanced dry feline diet
Significantly reduces allergenic (active) Fel d 1 in cats’ saliva within 3 weeks of feeding
Active Fel d 1 on cats’ hair was reduced by an average of 47% starting with the third week of feeding the diet
Cat-allergic individuals exposed to hair and dander from cats fed the diet demonstrated significantly reduced nasal allergy symptoms.
Read articles about the Fel d 1 allergen neutralization research ›
Fel d 1 levels vary among cats and within the same cat
Anti-Fel d 1 antibodies are safe for cats to eat
Cat food coated with anti-Fel d 1 antibodies reduces active Fel d 1 in cats’ saliva
Cat food coated with anti-Fel d 1 antibodies reduces active Fel d 1 on cats’ hair and dander
A novel approach to the reduction of cat allergen Fel d 1
Keep the cat, change the care pathway: A transformational approach to managing Fel d 1, the major cat allergen
About the Purina Institute
Serving as the global voice of Nestlé Purina’s science and its more than 500 scientists and pet care experts, the Nestlé Purina Institute is responsible for sharing the latest scientific findings in companion animal nutrition, with the goal of putting nutrition at the forefront of pet health discussions.