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What can I do About my Allergies to Cats?

Diana Bocco
Diana Bocco

Allergies to cats are widespread and are often cited as some of the most common allergies, with six million Americans suffering from them at some level. Allergies to cats are caused by a protein present in the cats' saliva and dander. This protein is airborne and is inhaled by those sharing a home with a cat. While most people simply "filter" this protein through their lungs, people who suffer from allergies to cats have an adverse reaction to it.

Although completely removing the allergen from the home may be difficult, there are many things that can be done to alleviate allergies to cats. To reduce the amount of allergen present in your home, start by reducing the amount of carpet and upholstered furnishings in the home. When possible, replace with wood floors and allergenic upholstery, especially in the bedroom. Another way to fight allergies to cats is to keep animals out of the bedroom. While this may not sound like something you want to do, it will greatly help in reducing the intensity of your reaction.

An indoor air filter can help minimize allergies.
An indoor air filter can help minimize allergies.

To minimize allergies to cats, vacuum frequently and thoroughly, preferably with a vacuum that has an incorporated HEPA filter. Indoor air filters or air purification systems can also help clean up the air and reduce the level of allergen present in the home.

While the idea of bathing your cat may not sound all that appealing, researchers have found it an effective solution. If your cat does not cooperate, consider searching for products such as special cleaning wipes sold in pet stores and veterinary clinics. They are created to keep animals clean but can also help you fight your allergies to cats.

Cutting down on shedding reduces airborne dander.
Cutting down on shedding reduces airborne dander.

If all else fails, consider allergy medications. Nasal steroid sprays are the least invasive of all methods, but they may not work for everybody. Those with severe allergies to cats should consider allergy shots, which are given twice a week for six months. The tiny injections work in over 85 percent of patients and they're usually the most effective solution for people with severe allergies to cats and other animals.

Finally, keep in mind that having allergies to cats should not be a reason to give up a beloved companion. With more and more immuno-therapy options hitting the market every day, sharing a home with a cat is becoming a viable option for everybody.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of cat allergies?

Six million Americans suffer from cat allergies.
Six million Americans suffer from cat allergies.

Common symptoms of cat allergies include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or red eyes, and skin reactions such as hives or eczema. Some individuals may also experience respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, particularly if they have asthma that can be exacerbated by allergens.

Can I live with a cat if I have allergies?

Having allergies should not be a reason to give up a cat.
Having allergies should not be a reason to give up a cat.

Yes, many people with cat allergies can still live with cats by taking certain precautions. Strategies include using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, keeping the cat out of the bedroom, regular cleaning, and bathing the cat to reduce dander. Allergy medications or immunotherapy (allergy shots) may also help manage symptoms.

Are there any hypoallergenic cat breeds?

Routine cleaning may help reduce allergen exposure.
Routine cleaning may help reduce allergen exposure.

While no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds are known to produce fewer allergens. Breeds like the Siberian, Balinese, and Russian Blue are believed to produce less of the Fel d 1 protein, which is a common trigger for cat allergies. However, individual reactions can vary, so spending time with a cat before adopting is advisable.

How can I reduce cat dander in my home?

Some people take medication to alleviate allergy symptoms.
Some people take medication to alleviate allergy symptoms.

To reduce cat dander, clean your home frequently, including vacuuming with a HEPA filter and dusting with damp cloths. Wash bedding and curtains regularly, and use allergen-resistant covers on mattresses and pillows. Additionally, bathing your cat every 1-2 weeks can significantly reduce the amount of dander they produce.

Is it possible to develop a tolerance to cat allergies?

Some owners may be allergic to cat litter.
Some owners may be allergic to cat litter.

Some individuals may develop a tolerance to cat allergens over time, especially with gradual and consistent exposure. However, this is not guaranteed and varies from person to person. Consulting with an allergist for a personalized approach, such as immunotherapy, can be a more reliable method for building tolerance to cat allergens.

What treatments are available for cat allergies?

Grooming vacuums capture pet hair and dander before it can get into carpets and fabrics and cause allergic reactions.
Grooming vacuums capture pet hair and dander before it can get into carpets and fabrics and cause allergic reactions.

Treatments for cat allergies include over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids to relieve symptoms. For long-term relief, an allergist may recommend immunotherapy, which involves regular injections of allergen extracts to gradually desensitize the immune system to cat dander.

Discussion Comments

LisaLou

We become so attached to our pets, that we can't imagine giving them up. Most people that are allergic to animals are also allergic to pollen and dust particles in the air and outside.

I know that getting allergy shots have been successful for many people who have not wanted to give up their pets. They also found that this helped them with their allergies over all, so they even felt better.

This would be a winning combination for me - feeling better and being able to keep my pet at the same time.

Shay7722

OK, i really need some help. i have a short hair cat, but he sheds a lot. he is my baby, and i love him like nothing else(sad i know, but i do!) and i just recently had to move out of my apartment into my parents house (again, sad i know, but i'm working on it : > ) well my dad is fine with linus(the cat) staying there, but my stepmom has serious allergies. so we are keeping him outside during the day and in the garage at night, and he is actually doing really well, he has never been outside before and he is adjusting so so well. but my stepmom is starting to react, and my dad said that if she gets bad my little one will have to find a new place to go. i have asked around with all my friends, and no one can take him. so, if anyone knows any way to stop the allergens from affecting her, i would really appreciate your help, i don't want my baby to have to live with a stranger!

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    • An indoor air filter can help minimize allergies.
      An indoor air filter can help minimize allergies.
    • Cutting down on shedding reduces airborne dander.
      By: fotosmile777
      Cutting down on shedding reduces airborne dander.
    • Six million Americans suffer from cat allergies.
      By: cynoclub
      Six million Americans suffer from cat allergies.
    • Having allergies should not be a reason to give up a cat.
      By: Igor Mojzes
      Having allergies should not be a reason to give up a cat.
    • Routine cleaning may help reduce allergen exposure.
      By: auremar
      Routine cleaning may help reduce allergen exposure.
    • Some people take medication to alleviate allergy symptoms.
      By: Feng Yu
      Some people take medication to alleviate allergy symptoms.
    • Some owners may be allergic to cat litter.
      By: Africa Studio
      Some owners may be allergic to cat litter.
    • Grooming vacuums capture pet hair and dander before it can get into carpets and fabrics and cause allergic reactions.
      By: jagodka
      Grooming vacuums capture pet hair and dander before it can get into carpets and fabrics and cause allergic reactions.
    • Keeping your cat out of your bedroom can help to reduce the intensity of your allergic reactions.
      By: Evgenia Tiplyashina
      Keeping your cat out of your bedroom can help to reduce the intensity of your allergic reactions.
    • Nasal sprays with steroids are the least invasive allergy medication.
      By: Ken Hurst
      Nasal sprays with steroids are the least invasive allergy medication.
    • Using a lint roller to remove pet hair from clothes can help with dander allergies.
      By: Brooke Becker
      Using a lint roller to remove pet hair from clothes can help with dander allergies.