How to Treat Allergic Reactions to Cats

Thousands of people across the globe are allergic to cats. Many of these people suffer through these allergies daily to enjoy the benefits of owning a furry feline friend. While there is no cure for symptoms, there are several treatments for allergies to cats.

Things You'll Need

• Antihistamine
• Allergy shots
• Allergy-reducing spray
• Air purifier with HEPA filter
• Cat shampoo
• Soap
• Brush
• Vacuum

Instructions

1. Take an antihistamine. There are many over-the-counter medications designed to reduce allergy symptoms. Prescription drugs are also available. Be aware, however, that side effects may occur.

2. Visit your doctor and request allergy shots. Allergy shots can potentially eliminate allergies altogether after three to five years. In the mean time, the medicine causes your body to gradually build up a tolerance to your cat allergies. Initially, shots must be administered weekly, but can often be reduced to a monthly dosage.

3. Minimize airborne allergens by cleaning your home regularly. If you dust and vacuum on a weekly basis, you can keep cat hair and dander from accumulating in your home. Also, wash your hands frequently to reduce contact with cat allergens.

4. Brush your cat daily. This will further reduce airborne allergens in your home. An allergy-reducing spray such as Allerpet and a healthy diet with fatty acids are also recommended. If you can put up with the screaming and scratching, bathing your cat once a week is another way to greatly reduce cat allergens around the house.

5. Create cat-free zones in your home. Making your bedroom or another room off limits to your pet will provide an oasis of allergy-free air in your home. You might consider closing off the air vents to this room to further safeguard yourself. In other rooms, install air purifiers with HEPA filters to help eliminate allergens.