As a cat lover, finding out you’re allergic to cats can be worrisome. You may have realized you were allergic once you brought your furry feline home or maybe you’ve struggled for years. If you’re looking to own cats while having allergies, there are multiple things you can do. Here are some tips from The Refined Feline on how to own a cat when you’re allergic.
Tip #1: Talk With Your Doctor
Most allergies to pets are relatively mild compared to other food and environmental allergies. However, it’s recommended to speak with your doctor before bringing a known allergen into your home. You’ll want to ensure there are no serious medical concerns related to your allergies. Your doctor will most likely recommend doing a full allergy test too to make sure you don’t have any other allergies. Based on your results, your doctor can recommend an allergy medication, either over the counter or prescription.
Tip #2: Look Into Different Breeds Of Cats
Allergies are triggered by a protein found in cat’s fur, skin, and saliva. Certain breeds of cats and even male cats produce more of this protein. Cats that are often referred to as hypoallergenic because they produce less of this protein are Siberian cats, Javanese cats, Balinese cats, and Oriental Shorthair cats. Hairless cats such as the Rex or Sphynx are other great options for people with allergies. Everybody is going to have a different allergic reaction to various breeds of cats. Typically, cats who shed less overall will be your best bet, no matter what breed they are. Be sure to get your cat neutered or spayed as well because unaltered cats secrete more of this allergen.
Tip #3: Clean, Clean, and Clean!
We’re not going to lie, this may be a disappointing tip to see, as many people don’t love cleaning already. However, to better regulate your allergies, cleaning is going to be your new best friend (aside from your furry feline). Regularly vacuuming your floors can greatly improve your breathing and reaction to the dander. Cat hair can collect quickly, especially in carpeted rooms, where it can dig deep and stay there for a while. Removing hair from surfaces in your home will alleviate your allergy flare ups. Washing any bedding and blankets weekly, whether it’s yours or the cats, can also improve the breathability in your home. Blinds can trap dust and fur fairly easily, thus frequently cleaning or even getting rid of them can help.
Having hardwood or tile floors in your home versus carpeting will greatly benefit your allergies as well. Cleaning the hair up is quicker and easier which keeps it from lingering. Leather or suede furniture will make keeping your home clean easier too. Just make sure that your cats don’t show an interest in scratching any new materials before investing a lot of money. If extra cleaning seems daunting, investing in a robotic vacuum for pet hair can take some of the work off your plate.
Tip #4: Upgrade Your Cat’s Furniture
Along with having easy to clean human furniture, your cat’s furniture may need an upgrade. Traditional cat trees are heavy on fabric and carpet which allows cat hair to build up and collect in it. Having smoother, more durable surfaces for your cats to lounge on will reduce your allergies. Not only does it make the cleaning easier, it can decrease the need for cleaning in the first place!
Cat towers from The Refined Feline are made of wood and metal and provide plenty of space for your cat to lounge. Included are multiple soft cushions or berber carpets that can be easily removed and washed. These high quality cat towers are an ideal way to offer your cats multiple places to perch without trapping more cat hair in your home. These modern cat trees will also blend into your home seamlessly.
Tip #5: Invest In An Air Purifier
Nothing beats cleaning your air versus managing it. Purchasing an air purifier can help clean the air of any allergens that are causing your flare ups. Dust, dander, and hair will be cut down dramatically with an air purifier, and it will improve the overall air quality in your home. This device will definitely help, although you’ll still have to clean. There are different models and sizes available, so be sure to do your research. Make sure the model you select can handle the space of the room. You may need to buy multiple purifiers to feel a difference if your home has a large or open floor plan.
Tip #6: Try Cat Food Designed To Reduce The Allergen
There’s a new cat food on the market now that may be able to help you and your cat. Purina ProPlan LiveClear Allergen Reducing Cat Food helps decrease the amount of the allergenic protein that cats produce. After three weeks of feeding, these proteins are reduced by an average of 47%. There are multiple styles of this food available, including Weight Management, Adult 7+ Prime Plus, Indoor Formula, and more.
Following These Tips Will Help You Own A Cat When You’re Allergic!
Having mild allergies shouldn’t have to be a deal breaker if you want to own a cat. Implementing these tips can help you breathe easier and cohabitate with your cat better. These tips can help you own a cat when you are allergic so you can enjoy your time with your cat without worry.
