ARE YOU ALLERGIC TO THE CAT?

 Do your eyes burn or tear, your throat itches or maybe you sneeze a dozen times? You realize you are allergic to your cat but can't bear the thought of finding her a new home.

Before doing anything, MAKE SURE YOU ARE ALLERGIC TO THE CAT! It could actually be something else like dust, ragweed, mold, or a combination of things. Get tested.

 

Did you know... the allergy is to the protein in the cat's dander or saliva
Did you know... female cats seem to be less allergenic than males, and neutered males are less allergenic than unaltered males.
Did you know... children age 6 or 7 years who were exposed to pets in the first year of life were less likely to have allergies to cats later on. (Cornell University College of Vet Medicine)

   Things you can do to minimize the symptoms/intensity:

  1.  Keep your cat out of your bedroom. Blankets and bedding are great dander reservoirs.
  2. Don't let your cat lie or sleep on your clothing or personal belongings. Provide them with their own pillow, blanket, or purr pad. Launder these weekly.
  3. If possible, have a non-allergic person comb your cat regularly in a well-ventilated area.
  4. Ask your veterinarian about a nutritional supplement or spray for the cat that may reduce itchiness or the allergens in the saliva or dander. (Allerpet)
  5. Wash your hands after petting or playing with your cat.
  6. If possible, get rid of the carpet in your home and replace with non-porous flooring. Wash throw rugs regularly.
  7. Keep floors damp mopped. If you stay with carpet, spray with a product containing nontoxic tannic acid to combat the effects of cat allergens. 
  8. When vacuuming, use special filter replacement bags or use a vacuum with a high allergen containment rating. 
  9. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter. 
  10. Keep the air in your home fresh and circulate the air. Stagnant air can allow the allergens to accumulate. 
  11. Your doctor/allergist may recommend nasal sprays, antihistamines, or immunotherapy.

There are alternatives to allow you to live a long and happy life with your beloved, feline companion.