Your Guide to Cat Allergy Symptoms

My sister recently lost her cat Topaz. She had been a long time member of our extended family. As much as my kids loved her they experienced cat allergy symptoms whenever they went to visit their aunt. Both my children have mild asthma which typically means they are going to be allergic to cats. My sister actually has asthma herself but she loved Topaz enough to manage through her cat allergy symptoms.

You don't necessarily need to see an allergist to determine whether you are allergic to cats. The allergic reaction is usually immediate upon entering a room with a cat or cats. So it doesn't take much to put the dots together. Can you get rid of your cat allergy symptoms without getting rid of your feline friend? First we need to identify your symptoms.

• Common Cat Allergy Symptoms


• Uncontrollable sneezing


• Watery Eyes


• Wheezing


• Hives


• Eczema

An allergy to cats is caused by contact with the dander and the saliva that are in the air. They may also be on surfaces where you sit or sleep or even in the carpets around your house. Cats lick their fur when they are cleaning themselves and when that happens they deposit a protein on their fur that is the actual allergen. Cat allergy symptoms can be experienced in areas where you might not expect. Due to the nature of the allergen it can stick to clothes and hands and can therefore appear in the office or other places where cats are not allowed.

You can attempt to treat your symptoms with medications but for cat allergies it is best to consult with a doctor. Antihistamine medications and allergy eye drops may help. If your cat allergy symptoms can not be managed it may be time to consider giving your cat away. This is a last option but may be your only resort particularly if anyone in the family suffers from asthma. Their symptoms, like wheezing, are more serious and therefore be the bigger priority.

If your cat allergy symptoms are mild or moderate and you can't imagine finding a new home for your feline family member here are some tips that may minimize your allergic reactions.

1. Get an air purifier with a HEPA filter


2. Keep your cat out of your bedroom where you spend the most time


3. Try to contain your cat to certain areas of the house


4. Vacuum your carpets with HEPA Vacuum Cleaner at least 2 times a week


5. Wash your hands after touching your cat

Cat allergy symptoms can come between you and your cat but if you really care about him you can do everything possible to manage your symptoms. Please keep in mind that new treatments are always being researched and keeping up to date on these may help you find the ultimate cure.