Buzz
While cats make wonderful companions, living with one can be challenging if you suffer from allergies. Allergic reactions in cats stem from proteins found in their shed skin cells, known as dander, as well as their saliva. However, with strategic adjustments to your environment and effective allergy management, you can comfortably coexist with a feline friend.
Practical Steps
Creating an Allergy-Friendly Environment
Designate cat-free zones, particularly your bedroom. Since a significant portion of your time is spent sleeping, keeping your bedroom off-limits to your cat drastically reduces exposure to allergens. Maintain a closed bedroom door when absent, and ensure your cat's belongings are situated elsewhere within the home.
Utilize HEPA filtration systems. HEPA filters are adept at capturing microscopic pet dander particles from the air. Install HEPA filters in areas where you spend considerable time, such as your bedroom or home office, to minimize allergen exposure. Ensure the filter's capacity matches the size of the room for optimal performance.
Maintain HVAC system filters. For homes with central heating and air conditioning, regularly replace air filters with high minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) ratings. These filters not only trap pet dander but also other common allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites. Opt for disposable filters with a MERV rating of 13 or higher, replacing them every 3 months.
Establish a consistent cleaning regimen. Pet hair and dander, laden with allergenic saliva, accumulate in your living space over time. To manage allergies effectively, clean your home weekly to minimize allergen presence. Consider hiring someone unaffected by allergies for cleaning duties to prevent aggravating symptoms. Wash bedding in hot water twice weekly if your cat shares your bed. Invest in vacuums with HEPA filters for enhanced allergen removal.
Opt for allergy-friendly home furnishings. Carpets and drapes trap microscopic cat dander, posing cleaning challenges. Opt for hardwood, tile, or metal furnishings over fabric alternatives to facilitate thorough cleaning. By transitioning to non-upholstered furniture and hard surface flooring, you can reduce pet dander accumulation in your home.
Managing Your Allergies Effectively
Maintain hand hygiene post-cat contact. Cat grooming introduces allergenic saliva onto their fur. After interacting with your cat, ensure thorough hand washing with soap and warm water for a minimum of 30 seconds. This precaution is especially vital before touching your face, which is highly susceptible to allergens.
Apply dander-reducing solutions weekly. Utilize specific solutions like Allerpet or Nature’s Miracle Allergen Blocker to cleanse your cat, potentially diminishing allergy-triggering dander. Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently wipe your cat’s fur following its natural direction. While effectiveness varies, it's worth trying for mild allergies.
Regularly take over-the-counter allergy medication. Reduce allergy symptoms with medications like Benadryl or Claritin. Benadryl can be taken every 4-6 hours (1-2 pills), while Claritin is taken once daily. These medications inhibit histamine reactions responsible for typical allergy symptoms.
Explore allergy shot options. Allergy shots can desensitize you to cat allergens over time. Administered by an allergist, these shots gradually increase in dosage to build tolerance. Effectiveness varies among individuals, and it may take up to 6 months for noticeable improvements.
