Dealing With Cat Allergens In Your Home

If you have cat allergies and also own a cat, then you know the effect they have on your health. Usually, it is recommended that a person with cat allergies never own a cat. However, that's not practical for everyone, especially for those who weren't aware of their allergies until after the cat arrived. However, just because you're allergic, it doesn't mean that you will have to give up your pet. If your allergies aren't severe or life-threatening, then you may be able to find a compromise. Here are a few tips that may help alleviate some of the problem.

Restrict the cat to certain areas:

The best area to restrict your cat's access is your bedroom. You can mostly do this by keeping your door closed. This may not be easy as some cats seem adept at learning how to open a door even if it's completely closed, so you may need to lock or block the door as well. You may want to restrict your cat to areas without carpet or allow them to spend time in an outdoor enclosure to keep dander (the allergy-causing substance cats produce) to a minimum.

Bathe your cat:

Some people may find it strange to bathe a cat, but most cats will get used to it if it's done regularly. If you can't do it yourself, have another family member or groomer do it for you. This will temporarily remove the amount of dander the cat produces. It will have to be done regularly, about every week, for it to remain effective. Make sure you only use pet shampoo specifically for cats.

Vacuum more often:

Carpet can harbor a lot of dust and cat dander. Vacuuming it and having it cleaned often will keep these allergens in check. Try using a vacuum with a filter that reduces the amount of allergens kicked up by the machine. If possible, have someone else vacuum and dust while you leave the house for a short time. A better idea, if it is possible, is to remove as much of the carpet in your home as possible and replace it with wood flooring that is easier to clean.

Treating your allergies:

Treatments for allergies include allergy shots and medications. While some people build up an immunity through allergy shots, many people find no relief at all. Some medications have side effects and may not be effective for everyone. Before taking any medication, check with your doctor first.

If you're experiencing allergic symptoms, see your doctor first before assuming that the cat is causing them. If your allergies are mild or moderate, you may be able to deal with them by reducing the allergens through cleaning and medications. Your doctor will let you know how severe your allergies are when you get tested. Allergy treatment is crucial for living around allergens every day.   

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