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Cat Allergy Treatments

Being allergic to cats is a common ailment in humans, and its symptoms can make one feel miserable. A common misperception is that cat hair directly causes cat allergy. It is actually caused by an allergen called Fel D-1 that exists in a cat's sweat, urine and saliva. It is spread to humans primarily as a result of cats grooming themselves. Up to 10 million people suffer from cat allergy in the United States. Taking preventative measures at home and perhaps even medical treatments offer hope for treating its symptoms.

  1. Home Treatments

    • First, try to ventilate the house as much as possible. With a lack of fresh air in any given space, allergens continuously float around. If the house cannot be ventilated often because of extreme weather conditions, for example, then invest in a good air filter. HEPA air filters work best because they capture the most allergens without them being released back into the air.

      Vacuum carpets daily and wear a mask to prevent allergens from entering the nose and mouth. Vacuums can often spit allergens back into the air. Be sure that the vacuum is equipped with a HEPA air filter to help prevent this. If possible, the best solution to get rid of cat allergens in the carpet is by removing it entirely and replacing it with wood. Also, be sure that blinds and curtains in the house are washable.

      Try to keep cats out of the bedroom, if possible. Otherwise, purchase a mattress and pillow covers designed to protect against allergens.

      After petting and playing with a cat, wash hands thoroughly and do not touch the face.

      A cat should be bathed no more than twice a month to reduce the amount of allergens. If a cat is bathed too often, their skin dries out and the dander increases even more than before.

    Medical Treatments

    • Over-the-counter allergy medications, such as Claritin-D, may help relieve cat allergy symptoms. A doctor can prescribe other drugs, such as nasal steroids, antihistamines, corticosteroids and bronchodilators. In more severe cases of cat allergy, an allergist might recommend that a patient take a series of allergy shots to relieve the symptoms.

      In some cases, a veterinarian can give a cat treatments that reduce Fel D-1, thus reducing cat allergy symptoms.

      If cat allergy symptoms still continue to be severe after preventative home treatments and medical treatments, it may be best to keep the cat outside of the house.

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