Cat allergies can be a real nuisance for people who adore the company of cats. Allergies from cat dander, saliva, or urine can cause breathing difficulties, sneezing, and skin rashes.

If you’re allergic to cats, it doesn’t mean you have to give up your cat, though. There are several ways you can reduce the discomfort of cat allergies and still enjoy your furry companion. Below are some tips and tricks that can help you deal with cat allergies.

1. Identify the Cat Allergen

Before you start dealing with cat allergies, it’s essential to identify the allergen that causes the reaction. Usually, cat allergies are a result of contact with cat dander, saliva, or urine.

However, sometimes it can be tough to figure out which of these allergens is responsible for the reaction.

One way to identify the allergen is to visit an allergist. The allergist can conduct skin tests or blood tests that can help determine the allergen.

Once you know what triggers your allergy, you can take the necessary steps to reduce your exposure to that allergen.

2. Keep Your Home Clean and Dust-Free

Pet dander and hair can quickly accumulate in your home and trigger allergic reactions. To minimize the exposure to allergens, you should keep your home clean and dust free.

You should vacuum your carpets and upholstery regularly, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. The HEPA filter traps microscopic allergens and prevents them from being recirculated into the room.

You can also use a damp cloth or mop to clean hard surfaces. This will help capture any dander or hair that may have settled on them.

3. Bathe Your Cat Regularly

Bathing your cat regularly can help prevent the buildup of dander and saliva on their fur. When you bathe your cat, you wash away the allergens that are causing the allergic reaction.

However, it’s essential to use a cat-friendly shampoo that won’t dry out their skin or damage their coat.

If your cat doesn’t like baths, you can use cat wipes to clean their coat. You can also use an allergy reducing cat shampoo that should help reduce the amount of allergen on their skin.

Talk to your veterinarian for recommendations on the best cat shampoos that can reduce allergies.

4. Use Air Purifiers and Filters

Air purifiers and filters can help reduce the amount of allergens in the air you breathe. When you use an air filter, it captures the allergens that are present in the air, such as dander, hair, and saliva.

Place an air purifier in the room where your cat spends the most time. You should also use a HEPA filter in your HVAC system to capture any allergens that are circulating through your home.

Change the filter regularly to ensure it’s working correctly.

5. Create A Cat-Free Zone

Creating a cat-free zone is crucial if you want to reduce your exposure to allergens. Depending on the severity of your allergy, you may need to create several cat-free zones throughout your home.

You can create a cat-free zone by keeping your cat out of a particular room or by using a cat gate to restrict access. You should also make sure your cat doesn’t sleep on your bed or furniture.

You should wash your bedding regularly, using hot water, to reduce the amount of allergens present in your bedding.

6. Consider Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, can help reduce the severity of your allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy involves injecting a small amount of the allergen into your body, gradually increasing the dosage over time.

Over time your body builds up immunity to the allergen, and the allergic reaction becomes less severe.

Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment, and it may take several months or even years to see the full benefits. Talk to your allergist to see if immunotherapy is right for you.

7. Try Over-The-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Antihistamines such as Benadryl and Zyrtec can help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Decongestants such as Sudafed can help relieve nasal congestion.

Nasal sprays such as Flonase and Nasonex can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate stuffiness. However, it’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions and talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

8. Invest in Proper Grooming Tools

Investing in proper grooming tools can help reduce the amount of hair, dander, and saliva present on your cat’s coat. A good quality brush can help remove loose hair and dander from your cat’s coat.

A deshedding tool can help remove undercoat from your cat’s fur that’s the source of debris and allergens.

You should also use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove hair and dander from your furniture and carpets. Regular grooming can help reduce the amount of flaky skin and saliva in your home, which can alleviate allergic reactions.

9. Choose Hypoallergenic Cats

If you’re planning on getting a new cat and you have allergies, you should choose a hypoallergenic breed. Hypoallergenic cats have a lower amount of Fel d1 protein, which is the allergen that causes most cat allergies.

Hypoallergenic breeds include Devon Rex, Balinese, Sphynx, and Siberian. However, it’s essential to note that no cat breed is entirely hypoallergenic.

Even hypoallergenic cats can produce some allergens that may trigger an allergic reaction in some people.

10. Consult with Your Doctor

If you’re experiencing severe allergy symptoms, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor can recommend the best course of treatment, depending on the severity of your symptoms.

They may refer you to an allergist to identify the allergen that’s causing the reaction.

Your doctor can also prescribe medication or recommend over-the-counter medications that can alleviate allergy symptoms.

Remember, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.

Conclusion

If you’re allergic to cats, you don’t have to give up your furry friends. There are several ways you can prevent and alleviate allergy symptoms.

You should keep your home clean and dust-free, bathe your cat regularly, use air purifiers and filters, create a cat-free zone, consider immunotherapy, try over-the-counter medications, invest in proper grooming tools, choose hypoallergenic cats, and consult with your doctor. With these tips and tricks, you can reduce the discomfort of cat allergies and still enjoy the company of your feline friends.