Raising a Cat with Allergies: Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Experience

Cats are wonderful companions, but if you have cat allergies then owning a cat is just like an impossible dream. However, if you will provide them proper care then it’s possible to live with a cat even if you have allergies. In this blog, we will look at some strategies that help you raise a cat while decreasing the impact of allergies. By following these guidelines you can enjoy the companionship of your cat without sacrificing your health.

Understanding Cat Allergies

Before learning how to raise a cat even if you have allergies, it’s important to understand the reasons behind the allergies. Those people who are allergic to cats are allergic to a protein called Fel d 1 that is found in the urine, saliva, and dander of cats. During the grooming process, cats spread the allergen through their fur and it leads to severe reactions in different individuals. Some common signs of cat allergies in humans are

Sneezing

Wheezing

Coughing

Skin rash

Trouble breathing

Nasal congestion

Watery eyes

Runny nose

Tips To Get A Cat If You Have Allergies

Choose Hypoallergenic Cat Breeds

There are many cats that surely produce very few allergens but they have a coat that traps a lot of allergens. Although there are no cat breeds that are completely hypoallergenic but there are some breeds like Russian blue, Siberian, and Balinese that are very famous for producing fewer allergens. If you are thinking about getting a cat and you have allergies then research hypoallergenic cat breeds.

Test Your Allergic Reaction

Before planning to raise a cat, it’s important to know about the severity of your allergies. Try to spend some time with families that already have cats and understand the severity of allergic reactions. This will help you learn about the severity and help you make a feasible decision.

Prepare your Home

Establish some area in your house as cat free area, where your cat is not allowed and it gives you an allergy–free retreat. Keep areas like your bedroom is off limit from your cat. You can use baby gates or doors to limit access to your kitty in that area. This will give you an allergen–free space where you can relax without exposure to allergens.

Invest in Air Purifiers

You need to get air purifiers that are equipped with HEPA filters because they effectively remove airborne allergens from your home. Use these air purifiers in the rooms where you spend most of your time like the living room or home office. Regularly clean and replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer to maintain their effectiveness.

Clean Regularly

Maintaining a clean house is important when you have cat allergies. Always vacuum rugs, carpets, and furniture with a vacuum cleaner to clean the surface from allergens. Additionally, use dust and mite–proof covers for pillows and mattresses to minimize exposure to allergens.

Implement a Frequent Cleaning Routine

Clean all the surfaces in your house with a damp cloth to remove allergens. This includes places like tables, countertops, and shelves that may accumulate dander. Wash cat accessories like cat beds in hot water to remove allergens. Minimize the use of those items that can trap allergens.

Grooming and Bathing

Regular bathing and grooming of your kitty will help in reducing the amount of allergens in the cat fur. Brush your car coat regularly to remove the dander and loose hair. Get those grooming tools that are designed specifically to minimize allergens in cats. If your cat can tolerate using hypoallergenic shampoo to reduce allergen levels.

Delegate Cleaning Responsibilities

If you are living with your family then ask any of the family member who is not allergic to cats to clean the litter. This will not only reduce your exposure to allergens but also decrease the chances of allergic reactions.

Wash Hands and Clothing:

You have to make a habit of cleaning your hand after interacting with your cat. Use water and soap to clean your hands and do not rub your eyes before washing your hands. Additionally, change your clothes when you want to interact with your cat and use a specific set of cloth for interaction to prevent the spread of allergens.

Consider Allergy Medications

Consult with your doctor to get a suitable allergy medication that can effectively relieve your symptoms. Nasal sprays, anti-histamine, and other medications can provide relief from exposure to cat allergens. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and take medications as prescribed.

Conclusion

When you are living with your cat it doesn’t mean that you have to give up the joy of owning the cat. If you follow these tips and strategies you can create an environment where there will be minimum allergens and allow you to allow companionship of your kitty while managing allergens. Always consult with your doctor or health care professional for specific advice that is according to your needs. With proper guidance and care, and allergy management techniques you can experience the joy of a cat even with allergies.