Help for a Cat Allergy

Cats are cute, but unfortunately they trigger allergies in some people. According to the Mayo Clinic, these allergies are triggered by an animal protein (not by the feline's fur, as is widely believed). If you are allergic to cats, the best way to avoid triggering symptoms is simply by staying away from them. However, you may not choose this option, or you may be exposed to allergens on clothes or furniture even when cats are not present. But you can to help relieve your cat allergy in those circumstances.

Medication

• Several medications can help you control your cat-allergy symptoms. The Mayo Clinic says antihistamines can prevent runny noses and sneezing by suppressing an immune chemical that is activated by a reaction to cats or other allergies. You can start with over-the-counter antihistamines; if they do not help enough, your doctor can prescribe a more powerful type.

  Decongestants ease breathing by shrinking swollen nose tissues. They can be purchased over the counter to help with your cat allergy. They are often sold in combination pills along with an antihistamine.

  Corticosteroid sprays ease cat allergies by fighting inflammation and easing symptoms. They are available by prescription. According to the Mayo Clinic, these sprays don't have the side effects and long-term risks that oral corticosteroids do.

Nasal Lavage

• Rinsing your nasal passages with salt water--known as nasal lavage--can be helpful for dealing with cat allergies. It can relieve sneezing, congestion and post-nasal drip caused by the allergic reaction. You can purchase a nasal lavage kit at most pharmacies. These kits contain a neti pot, bulb syringe or other equipment to flush the water into your nasal passages.

Immunotherapy

• Immunotherapy can teach your immune system not to be so sensitive to cat allergens. This is done through a series of shots given once or twice a week. These injections contain a small amount of the allergen, slowly desensitizing your body. The amount is increased over time, with the series of shots lasting up to six months. When it is over, you will need maintenance shots every four weeks for up to five years. Because of its length, the Mayo Clinic says that immunotherapy is usually reserved for the worst cases where other treatments don't relieve the cat allergy symptoms well enough.