How to Control Cat Allergies

Controlling Cat Allergies

Cat allergies are an allergic reaction to the dander on the skin of cats. Cat allergies can cause a stuffy nose, headache, watery eyes and sneezing when you are around cats or cat hair. Cat allergies can be controlled in a variety of ways, including homeopathic, over-the-counter and prescription medication, but if you don't know you're going to be around cats or you own cats, you can still take steps to prevent getting sick due to cat allergies.

Things You'll Need

• Saline nasal spray
• Ibuprofen
• Vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter
• Soap and water

Instructions

1. Reduce allergens by keeping your cats away from where you sleep. Do not allow cats in your bedroom or around your bed. You may have trouble sleeping due to allergens near your eyes and face.

2. Wash your hands with soap and water every time you pet your cats. If you keep your hands free of cat hair and cat dander you will keep the allergens from getting on your face.

3. Use saline nasal spray and take ibuprofen instead of using over-the-counter allergy sprays or pills. Allergy sprays can dry out your nasal passages and cause dependency with consistent use.

4. Clean your house using a vacuum with a HEPA filter at least once a week. HEPA filters reduce allergens from the carpet, furniture and air.

5. If you suffer cat allergies, limit petting them except right before you take a shower so you limit exposure to the cat hair and dander.

Tips & Warnings

• Letting cats outdoors reduces cat allergens inside the house.

• If cat allergies make you break out in hives or your body to swell, go to the emergency room immediately.

References

• PetEducation.com: Cat Allergies

Resources

• WebMD.com: Relief for Cat Allergies