Although some people avoid cats because they are afraid or don’t like them, there is some hope for those who avoid cats because they are afraid of allergic reactions. A lot depends on the nature of your allergies. If your cat is the type of sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose, you may be able to slowly and gradually build up your tolerance to the cat.
However, you should get an allergy test before getting a cat, especially if you suffer from asthma. For example, about 30% of people with allergies are allergic to cats and dogs, but studies have shown that the proportion of allergies to cats is actually much higher.
Here are some tips to help you manage your feline allergy symptoms while enjoying the feline’s lifelong companionship.
Cat Allergy Symptoms
It’s hard to ignore cat allergy symptoms. This happens whenever there are felines nearby or you come across cat hair left on furniture. Your body’s immune system reacts to proteins in your cat’s urine, saliva, or dander. Here is a list of typical feline allergy symptoms you may experience:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Rash
- Stuffy nose
- Dyspnea
- Runny nose/nasal congestion
- Itchy, red, watery eyes
Remove Other Allergens from Your Home
If you’re considering bringing a new pet into your home, start by removing as many other allergens as possible from your home, including mites, dust, and mold. Most airborne allergens, including cat dander, attach to soft materials such as curtains, curtains, upholstery, and floor coverings. Here are common ways to get rid of allergens in your home:
- Replace curtains with blinds. If you rent an apartment and can’t get permission to replace your curtains, keep them clean and vacuum them frequently.
- If possible, replace over-padded upholstered furniture with leather.
- Eliminate decorative scented candles, potpourri, and plug-in air fresheners, all of which can exacerbate allergy symptoms.
- Consider replacing wall rugs with wooden or tile floors. Otherwise, vacuum the carpet regularly and thoroughly.
Consider Allergy Medications
When dealing with cat allergies, medications are often the first thing people think about. Over-the-counter or prescription medications, natural remedies such as BioAllers, or a series of allergy injections (immunotherapy) are all worth looking into. Keep in mind that you should always consult your doctor or allergist before starting a new treatment.
Visit a Friend Who Has a Cat
Choose to visit a friend with a cat out with you so you can get up close and personal with the cat, but there are limited quantities. Let your friend choose a time when the cat is full, comfortable, and relaxed. If necessary, when you visit, ask your friend for permission to use an anti-allergy spray or wipes on the cat.
Use allergy medications half an hour before your appointment time. When you arrive, let the cat decide the pace. In the beginning, you may be sniffed at your feet and legs. You can shake your hand to see if the cat will rub your hand, which indicates that petting is acceptable. If your allergies are still under control, you can have the cat jump on your lap. Your stay will be about 15 minutes at most for both you and your cat to be comfortable.
After another week or two, visit again with the same cat and stay longer, up to half an hour. Start expanding your business and visit other friends who have cats.
Consider Hypoallergenic Varieties
There are a few breeds of cats that are considered hypoallergenic, or at least helpful for people with allergies, including the following breeds:
- Sphynx cats: These cats have very fine and sparse hair.
- Rex: Some Tyrannosaurus rex species, such as Devon Tyrannosaurus rex, have fine, wavy, or curly hairs that may not accumulate dander as much as thick fur.
- Siberian cats: These cats lack the Fel d 1 protein in their saliva, which turns into dander after grooming, a property that may be beneficial for allergy sufferers.
To learn more about these specific breeds, check to see if there are local cat shows where you can watch them. Many cat breed clubs host shows that highlight individual breeds.
Visit a Local Animal Shelter
Once you feel like you’re under allergy control, consider adoption. Here’s how to get to your local animal shelter or cat adoption event.
- Wear comfortable, casual clothing.
- Remember to take any anti-allergy medication first.
- It took an hour or so to prepare at the shelter or event.
- If you can, bring several cats into a private room, one at a time, and spend some time with each one.
It’s often said that cats usually choose humans, so let your cat’s behavior guide your choices. You may need to visit the shelter several times to find the right cat for your activity.
Make sure your home is fully prepared for your new pet. Once you’ve made your choice, talk to the staff and tell them about your allergies and ask if you can send the cat back as a last resort if you bring your pet home with allergies. Try to limit your new cat’s access to your bedroom so you can sleep with even the slightest symptoms of allergies.
Once you’ve brought your cat home, consider feeding it a specific allergen-reducing cat food called Pro Plan LiveClear. This diet has been scientifically proven to reduce the Fel d 1 allergen in cat dander. Also, regularly wiping your cat’s fur with baby wipes or a damp cloth can also help reduce the spread of dander.
Cats are amazing creatures and hopefully with advances in allergy medications, feline diet control, and daily fur maintenance, you can be friends with felines even if you have allergies.
Disclaimer: Any information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the personal care of a licensed physician. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment of symptoms or medical conditions.