Tips for Coping with Cat Allergies

From sneezing fits to itchy eyes and runny noses, the symptoms of cat allergies can make life miserable, especially for people with cat allergies. The good news is that yes, it's possible to cope with cat allergies if you follow some simple tips to control your exposure to the allergens and protect yourself from others' allergens too.

In this post, we offer 10 top tips for coping with cat allergies so that you can enjoy kitty's cuddly purrs without sneezing every five minutes.

Create a Separate Space for Your Cat(s)

Another solution to lessen cat allergies is to create a separate space in your home for your cat(s) so that they are out of contact with you or those who may be allergic. This could include setting up a designated room where your cat can hang out when those with allergies visit or having an outdoor house where they can play or hang out.

You may want to consider using fleece blankets instead of fabric pet beds as well, as these tend not to trigger allergic reactions as much as regular fabrics do.

Use a HEPA Air Purifier

If you're sensitive to cats, a HEPA air purifier can significantly reduce allergens in your home and make it easier to breathe. (You should also vacuum every day.) Consider using a HEPA filter if you find yourself sneezing, runny-nosed, or generally unhappy around your pets. These powerful machines are designed to remove dust and other particles from indoor air—and they can help keep cat allergies at bay.

Use HEPA Vacuum Cleaners

If you're allergic to cats, avoid using a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up cat hair, as you could stir up more dander in your home. Instead, use HEPA filter vacuums that trap tiny particles in their exhaust, including cat dander and pollen. Regular vacuums make all of those allergens spread around even more.

Pro Tip: keep your windows and doors open as much as possible and use exhaust fans to keep your home well-ventilated.

Use Special Laundry Detergent and Sheets on Your Bed

Many people deal with pet allergies by making sure they keep their animals out of their bedrooms. However, keeping a cat off your bed isn't just about comfort—it can make your allergy symptoms worse. If you're allergic to cats and you own one, try to keep them from getting on your bed at all. Also, it's a good idea to wash both your sheets and blankets in hot water and use an allergen-removing detergent when doing so.

Pro Tip: Use beddings with non-allergic polyester filling.

Clean the Litter Box Outside

When it comes to keeping kitty and allergy sufferers happy, you'll need to scoop that litter box a few times a day. You might think you're cleaning up their poop, but all cat urine and feces are contaminated with allergens, even if they have been deodorized. Removing all traces of waste from inside or outside your home will keep your allergies at bay.

Get Allergy Shots From Your Doctor

If you can't manage to live without a cat, take your doctor's advice and invest in allergy shots. Immunotherapy is a proven treatment that uses gradual exposure to allergens (such as cat dander) to desensitize allergy sufferers.

Additional Tips How to Effectively Cope with Cat Allergies

• Go for hypoallergenic cat breeds that shed little to no hair - Sphynx, Devon Rex, Cornish Rex.
• Keep your hands away from your face, and always wash your hands immediately after contact with your cat.
• Groom your cat regularly or have a professional groomer do it.
• Have non-allergic family members handle cat chores such as litter box chores, grooming, etc.
• Bathe your cat frequently as well as their bedding and toys.
• Feed your cat a well-balanced diet that includes fats to minimize shedding.
• Avoid dense carpets, curtains, or furniture that often attract sticky cat allergens.
• Regularly clean your vents and frequently replace your heating/cooling air and humidifier filters.

Wrapping Up

For cat lovers, it's hard to imagine life without your favorite furry friend. Luckily, these top tips will ensure that your allergy symptoms don't worsen and that you can still enjoy the companionship of man's best friend.