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Health Information
Allergic to Cats?
Some helpful advise
Thursday, November 13, 2008
| Allergic to Your Cat? |
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Have you just adopted a kitten and your eyes are running like a faucet? Have you had your cat for years, and suddenly she�s making you sneeze like crazy?
You�re not alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, around six to 10 million people suffer from cat allergies. Most reactions are based on a specific feline protein called Fel-D-1, which is secreted in a cat�s dander, saliva and urine. Dander and dry saliva become airborne and come to rest in carpets and curtains, which can make your symptoms seem unbearable.
But don�t worry, you can take steps to reduce cat dander in your home.
Fighting Dander & Saliva
- Invest in an electrostatic high efficiency particulate air cleaner, or HEPA filter. You can use them throughout your entire house.
- Vacuum carpets often and wash curtains frequently to help reduce particle buildup. Ultimately, removing carpets and replacing them with wood or tile floors can make a dramatic difference in reducing particles�as well as the severity of your symptoms.
- Bathe, yes bathe, your cat twice a month, but no more than that. Too many baths can dry out her skin and increase dander. Or, if your cat turns into a lion at the site of water, brush her each day, then wipe her down with a damp cloth. If you have a kitten, get her used to baths early on.
- If none of the above works, consult your doctor about allergy shots.
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Tips to Peacefully Coexist
As miserable as you may be, you may not have to part with your feline friend. A balanced approach to manage your condition�such as medication prescribed by your allergist, immunotherapy and good housekeeping�could help you and your cat live happily together, with your symptoms minimized.
- Create an allergy-free, no-cat area, like your bedroom, and limit her access.
- Wash your hands after petting your cat and before touching your hands or face.
- Vacuum daily (while wearing a dust mask) to get rid of shedded fur. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
- Install furnace filters designed to trap pet dander and change them regularly to maximize efficiency.
- Talk to your allergist about household adjustments or medications that could bring you added relief.
- Consult your veterinarian about safe treatments for your cat that may reduce your allergic reaction to her.
- Use impermeable covers for mattresses and pillows to prevent allergen particles carried into the room on clothes or other objects from penetrating and accumulating in them.
- Replace heavy curtains with blinds or fabric you can wash regularly.
Note: Medical care and advice in this article is for suggestion and information only. It is not a substitute for veterinary care for your cat or medical care for you. If your cat is showing signs of a health or behavior problem, consult with your veterinarian immediately. And of course, your doctor or allergist is the best source of advice and medical care for your pet allergies.
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