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Cat Allergies: Can You Live With Cats If You Are Allergic?

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Cat Allergies: Can You Live With Cats If You Are Allergic?

This post was updated on January 12, 2024

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The very simple answer is, it depends on you and how bad your allergies are. But now let’s assume you are determined to adopt a kitten or cat, or perhaps you already have one and are trying to manage your allergies. Read on fellow feline fanatic! As someone who has had three cats over the past 19 years (one cat as I am writing this article) and classified as ’highly allergic’, I have definitely picked up a few tips that should help you out. This post is all about cat allergies and if you can live with cats if you are allergic?

WILL MY CAT ALLERGIES GO AWAY?

What causes cat allergies?

You might be wondering, which part of the feline am I actually allergic to? You could be thinking, ‘if I am allergic to the saliva, I will just make sure my cat doesn’t lick me’. Well, it is a little more complicated then that. And more then likely you are allergic to proteins that are found in the saliva, skin cells and even your cat’s pee. Yes, pee.

Pet allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in an animal’s skin cells, saliva or urine. Signs of pet allergy include those common to hay fever, such as sneezing and runny nose. Some people may also experience signs of asthma, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing.
Mayo Clinic

Will my cat allergies go away?

The truth is, your cat allergies will not go away. However, they could become less severe as your immune system gradually gets used to the proteins you are allergic to.

My personal experience is, my allergies have become a little less severe. Counting on allergies getting better is not a good strategy though, because even if you are fortunate enough to get a little relief over time, it will be small and there are no guarantees. The fact is, your allergies could get much worse after adopting a cat because the hair, skin cells, saliva etc. will cover your home and furniture over time.

I still want a furry companion, what should I do about the cat allergies?

Great job on staying true to your true feline fanaticism! *Virtual high-five* fellow warrior. Now let’s get to work as there are several things you can and should do to alleviate your kitty cat allergies.

Ways To Manage Your Allergies To Cats

Allergist

Explore a world of relief with the guidance of an allergy specialist. While they might advise against adopting a cat if you have allergies, rest assured, they are your allies in managing the aftermath should you choose to bring a feline friend into your life. An Allergist is your ticket to a comprehensive allergy test, unveiling the culprits behind your sneezes. Identify not only the fluffy foes like cat dander but also the unexpected triggers, such as dust.

For instance, I discovered my allergy to both cats and dust. Armed with this knowledge, I opted for a cleaning service to tackle the relentless battle against Finnegan’s cat hair and the elusive dust particles. By delegating the cleaning responsibilities, I successfully circumvented the allergy attacks that used to plague me.

The allergy test didn’t just stop at pinpointing my triggers; it gave me a detailed list of substances that could potentially wreak havoc on my immune system. Armed with this information, I strategically navigate high pollen days, another item on my allergy hit list. Simple measures like closing windows and relying on air conditioning become my shield during peak pollen times.

Investing time and effort in consulting an Allergist becomes a cornerstone in managing your body’s aversions. Take charge of your overall health, and witness the difference it can make – a small effort for a significant payoff!

Groom Your Cat Regularly

Brushing your cat regularly will help minimize shedding on your furniture. By grooming your cat (daily for long-haired cats, weekly for short-hair) you can keep the fur from spreading all over the place. Your cat will also love the attention!

Finnegan’s favorite brush is one by HARTZ. Finn has very sensitive skin so it is important that the bristles have those little plastic balls on them. That makes the rubbing gentler and easier on his skin, but the bristles are hard enough to groom loose fur.

Groom Yourself Regularly

One good thing that has come from Covid19 is bringing hand-washing back as an almost obsession. This is a good thing for people allergic to their pets. As soon as you are done grooming, brushing or petting your cat, wash your hands. Wash them good, with soap. Now touch your face or rub your eyes.

If your cat loves to help you pick out what clothes to wear in the morning, be sure to use a lint roller after he has blessed you with his cat fur.

If your cat sleeps on your head, be sure to get a solid shampooing in before you start your day. Wash your pillowcases and sheets regularly especially if your cat sleeps with you. (duh, of course he does) Keeping yourself and your clothes washed will go along way in preventing an allergy attack.

If your fur baby has issues with his litter box and starts to wee on the floor or spray on your furniture, or vomit on your floor (all elements filled with allergic stimulating proteins!), I urge you to try Rocco & Roxie. Read more about Rocco and Roxie in, How To Use Odor And Pet Stain Remover.

Adopt a Hairless or Short-Hair Cat

Getting a kitty cat with short-hair or that is completely bald can help the allergy problem, but probably will not completely eliminate it. There are several cats known for being easier on the sneezer, so check with your Vet and any friends who may have Sphynx cats. These articles may be helpful too.

The Kittenish Ways of Burmese Cats

What Type of Health Problems Do Sphynx Cats Have?

Are Sphynx Cats Really Hypoallergenic Cats?

Get an Air PURIFIER

**LIST OF AMAZON HEPA AIR PURIFIERS HERE**

Purchasing an air filter can be game changing for people with cats who are allergic to cats. Be sure to get a HEPA filter as it can remove even the tiniest particles. You can find lots of product reviews on the internet to determine with is best for you. I personally like to use the reviews on Amazon as they tend to be honest and sometimes have a detailed review, with pictures and videos and everything.

Concatulations, if you made it this far, you either have your cat already or are bound and determined to get her!

Enjoy your new feline, and be sure to take of your allergies so you can be free from too many attacks. Once you get your tools in place, it is definitely possible to be close to allergy free if not completely! I am curious, what have you tried and been successful doing to manage your cat allergies so the do not manage you? What has worked, what has not?