How Can We Avoid Cat Allergies When Visiting Friends With Cats?

The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology reports that although almost three-quarters of U.S. households have cats and dogs as pets, 10 million pet owners experience allergic reactions from their animals. Allergens are present in proteins found in the skin, urine and saliva of animals, and this material is known as animal dander. It's not necessary to handle an animal to have contact with dander; it is also present in house dust, upholstery, carpets and curtains.

Instructions

• 1

  Inform your friends about your allergy as soon as possible to give them optimum preparation time before your arrival. Be polite and remember that Americans are a nation of animal lovers, so suggest that a few minor modifications is all you require for an enjoyable visit.

• 2

  Ask your doctor for medication before your visit. Family Doctor states that non-prescription remedies are available but some have side effects, so it is prudent to consult your physician. The doctor may prescribe antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays or eye drops to help reduce the allergic reaction.

• 3

  Pack your inhaler, in addition to any other medicines prescribed by the doctor, if you are asthmatic.The Mayo Clinic suggests that pet allergens can exacerbate asthma and cause shortness of breath and wheezing.

• 4

  Ask your friend to keep the cats in a separate room or encourage them to go outside when you visit, whatever their breed. According to the Humane Society, there is a popular misconception that short-haired or hairless breeds of cat are nonallergenic, when in reality they can be highly allergenic.

• 5

  Take your own bedding and pillows if you are staying overnight, because the Mayo Clinic advises that washing does not remove all pet allergens from fabric. If it is practical, encasing the mattress in an allergen-blocking cover may also help reduce symptoms.

• 6

  Avoid any contact with the cat, as even the briefest interaction can provoke an allergic reaction. Cats interpret direct eye contact as a threat or challenge, so look at the cat, rather than away, if you are approached. This will act as a deterrent and the cat will instinctively know you should be avoided.

• 7

  Sit on wooden or plastic furniture, if possible, as cat dander clings to upholstered furniture and cushions. Elect to spend time in rooms with wooden floors, as dander is present in carpets. Use a high-efficiency particulate air purifier during your visit; according to the Mayo Clinic, this will reduce airborne dander.