Saliva Testing
In 2010, we introduced a standardized method for collecting and measuring cat allergens. Our proprietary method combined with our salivant stimulates release of allergen into saliva. This method made it possible to measure Fel d1 allergen in kittens and estimate the amount of allergen a kitten would produce when mature.
Saliva tests are expensive, as a series of three separate lab samples are required for accuracy. However, this is the only current method that can measure allergen production in kittens – which can be tested starting at 12 weeks of age.
Over the last fifteen years, we have personally tested several hundred kittens and assisted other catteries in successfully placing kittens in homes with mild to severe reactions – including hives and asthma attacks.
History of KittenTesting
In 2005 we measured Fel d1 allergen in 120 adult Siberians. For comparison, we measured samples from both saliva and fur. There were no formal testing methods at that time, and the existing methods were unable to measure allergen levels in kittens.
We partnered with University of California Davis from 2003-2005 to study genetic changes in the Fel d1 gene. Ultimately, the changes were too complex to create a simple gene test for allergen production. During these studies, we also looked at allergen levels in other cat breeds, and only found substantial genetic changes in Siberians.
Error rates for traditional saliva tests were highly inaccurate. The salivants we started with (such as citric acid, sugar, bitter agents, etc) altered the release of salivary proteins or directly interfered with ELISA testing. For five years, we compared salivants before finding one that provided stable results, reduced the error rate, and could be used for kittens. We developed standardized methods for saliva collection in 2010.
As part of our research, we published our preliminary studies. Many Siberian breeders still test adult cats using our original research – as multiple tests are expensive. The error rate of these older tests is unacceptable. For adult cats, we recommend using our updated methods or testing using fur samples. Note that kittens under 12 month of age cannot accurately be tested with fur.
Allergen Charts
We also documented allergic reactions in hundreds of individuals and mapped their reactions by severity. After meeting with immune specialists, we developed a chart that separates allergen reactions by severity.
Allergen levels from large numbers of Siberians would map to a bell-shaped curve. Our chart is an artificial grouping designed to help people understand the severity of their reactions. It does not map to a standard Bell curve as most cats test in the “normal” range. Roughly half of Siberians have allergen levels substantially lower than other breeds. About 15% are low enough to be safe in homes where people have severe reactions.
The chart shows what allergen level is appropriate for corresponding symptoms. An individual with severe allergies can hold an “Extremely Low” Siberian. Someone with mild reactions will be comfortable with a “Medium Low” cat. Match the symptoms you would expect from direct exposure (face to fur) with a normal cat.
Allergen levels below are listed in micrograms per milliliter of saliva – µg/ml.
| Cat/Kitten | Saliva Level | Corresponding allergic symptoms © |
|---|---|---|
| Extr. Low | 0.1 – 1.0 mcg | ER visits, rashes, hives, facial swelling, asthma, short of breath |
| Very Low | 1.0 – 1.75 mcg | Light sneezing, severe runny nose, swollen eyes, mild rash, mild asthma |
| Low | 1.75 – 2.5 mcg | Runny nose, eye irritation, coughing, few sneezes, light itching |
| Medium | 2.5 – 3.5 mcg | Mild eye irritation, stuffy nose, scratchy throat, other mild symptoms |
| Normal | 3.5 – 32 mcg | Not recommended for homes with cat allergies |
© 2005 “Allergen Chart” Meredith Lundberg, DBA Lundberg Siberians, DBA Kitten Testing.com
Copyright
© 2005, updated 2025. Allergen chart, allergen levels, and allergic reactions by severity are copyrighted by Meredith Lundberg, DBA KittenTesting, DBA Lundberg Siberians. Commercial or derivative use without permission is prohibited. Individuals with severe allergies should seek medical advice before testing with or purchasing a cat or kitten.
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