We know it can be challenging to manage cat allergies, but here are some tips that may help alleviate your symptoms.
- Take an over-the-counter allergy medication (such as an antihistamine) as directed by your healthcare provider or the product label.
- If your kitty is not already spayed or neutered, having them altered may help reduce allergen production over time.
- Consider feeding an allergy reducing cat food such as Purina Pro Plan LiveClear Allergen Reducing Cat Food, which may reduce the active allergen found in cat saliva and dander.
- Wipe your kitty down regularly with allergen-reducing cat wipes. Weekly baths can also help reduce allergens, but many cats find bathing stressful, making wipes a more practical option.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your kitty, and avoid touching your face before washing your hands.
- Keep your kitty out of certain rooms so you have a lower-allergen space to retreat to when needed.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture regularly (at least once a week) using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. If possible, have someone else do the vacuuming. If you vacuum yourself, consider wearing a disposable dust mask. Keep in mind that vacuuming can temporarily stir allergens into the air, and it may take several hours for them to settle.
- Avoid "dry" cleaning methods such as sweeping with a broom or using feather dusters, as these can spread allergens into the air. Instead, use damp cloths and mops or electrostatic cleaning tools (such as a Swiffer) to trap and remove allergens.
- Use a HEPA air purifier in the room where your kitty spends the most time, or consider placing purifiers in multiple rooms throughout your home.
- Wash bedding, clothing, blankets, and your kitty's bedding regularly using hot water whenever the fabric allows.
- If your allergies remain difficult to manage, talk with your healthcare provider about allergy immunotherapy ("allergy shots" or sublingual therapy), which may help reduce your long-term allergic response.
If you are considering rehoming your kitty due to allergies, it may be very difficult. Shelters and rescues are constantly full with many requests to take in more. You can review our rehoming tips, though hopefully some of the above options may help you!