Understand Cat Allergies
Cat allergies are caused by exposure to Fel d 1, a protein found in cat saliva, skin, and urine (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8721548/). When cats groom themselves, the Fel d 1 protein particles get transferred to their fur. These particles can become airborne or stick to surfaces. When someone allergic to cats inhales or touches the particles, they may experience allergy symptoms.
Common symptoms of cat allergies include sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, congestion, coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, and skin redness, swelling, or rash where a cat has scratched, licked, or touched bare skin. Symptoms are similar to those of the common cold but are not caused by a virus.
The immune systems of people with cat allergies overreact to the Fel d 1 protein, treating it as a harmful invader. This triggers the release of chemicals like histamine that lead to allergy symptoms. People can develop cat allergies at any age, even if they have previously tolerated being around cats.
Avoid Allergen Exposure
One of the most effective ways to reduce cat allergy symptoms is to avoid exposure to the allergens as much as possible. According to the Purina Institute, the major cat allergen is a protein called Fel d 1 that is produced primarily in cat saliva and distributed over their fur when grooming [1]. Here are some tips to reduce allergen exposure:
– Keep cats out of the bedroom and limit cuddling or touching them. The bedroom should be a cat-free zone, since that is where you spend the most time, especially when sleeping. According to WebMD, furred pets should be kept off the bed [2].
– Wash your hands immediately after touching a cat. Washing hands removes allergens and prevents spreading them around the home or your body.
– Vacuum carpeted areas frequently using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Clean hard floors with a damp mop or cloth regularly. This removes allergens from surfaces.
Taking steps to limit allergen exposure can significantly reduce allergy symptoms for people sensitive to cats. Be sure to keepcats out of bedrooms, wash hands after contact, and vacuum/clean often.
Take an Antihistamine
Antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine can help reduce allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine in your body. Histamine is released by your immune system in response to an allergen and causes common allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, and runny nose.
Cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra) are second and third generation antihistamines that are less likely to cause drowsiness compared to older antihistamines. They are available over-the-counter and are commonly used to treat pet allergies.
Taking an antihistamine daily can reduce your allergic reaction to pet dander and relieve allergy symptoms. Antihistamines don’t cure the allergy but can provide significant relief when used regularly. They are generally very safe to use for extended periods. However, some people may experience mild side effects like headache, dry mouth, or fatigue.
Talk to your doctor about trying an antihistamine to manage pet allergies. Finding the right antihistamine and dose that works for your symptoms without causing side effects may require some trial and error.
Try a Nasal Spray
Using a cortisone or antihistamine nasal spray can help reduce allergy symptoms like nasal congestion and sneezing caused by cat allergies. Nasal sprays work by delivering medication directly to the nasal passages to prevent or relieve inflammation.
Cortisone nasal sprays like fluticasone (Flonase) work by reducing inflammation in the nose. According to Flonase, their nasal sprays can block 6 different allergic substances instead of just 1 [1]. Antihistamine nasal sprays like azelastine (Astelin, Astepro) and olopatadine (Patanase) work by blocking the release of histamine, which is a chemical released by the immune system during an allergic reaction [2].
While nasal sprays can provide relief, it’s important to use them sparingly and according to label directions to avoid side effects like nosebleeds or nasal irritation. Long-term overuse can also lead to dependence or rebound congestion when you stop using them.
Use a HEPA Air Purifier
Using a HEPA air purifier is an effective way to get rid of cat allergies naturally by filtering allergens like cat dander and feline saliva proteins from the air in your home. HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air” and refers to filters that can remove tiny particles as small as 0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency [1]. This includes cat allergens which tend to be in the 0.5 to 5 micron range.
Look for a true HEPA air purifier that has been tested to meet HEPA standards. The best air purifiers for pet allergies will combine a true HEPA filter with activated carbon to help trap odors and dander. Place the air purifier in your bedroom and/or primary living areas where you spend the most time. Run it continuously for maximum allergen reduction. Studies have shown HEPA air purifiers can significantly decrease airborne cat allergen levels and provide relief for allergy sufferers [1].
Rinse Sinuses
One of the most effective natural remedies for cat allergies is rinsing your sinuses with a saline solution. This washes out mucus and allergens from your nasal passages, reducing congestion, postnasal drip, and other allergy symptoms. To rinse your sinuses, dissolve a quarter to half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water. Use a bulb syringe, neti pot, or other nasal irrigation system to pour the solution into one nostril at a time as you tilt your head to the side. Let it drain out the other nostril. This can be done once or twice daily. According to Docs Medical Group, saltwater rinses are very effective at relieving allergy symptoms from cats.
Try Natural Supplements
Taking certain natural supplements may help reduce allergy symptoms from cats. Some supplements have shown promise in clinical trials for alleviating cat allergy symptoms:
Quercetin – This antioxidant compound found in fruits and vegetables may have antihistamine properties that inhibit the release of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions (source).
Butterbur – Butterbur extract contains petasin, an anti-inflammatory that may help relieve allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose (source).
Vitamin C – High doses of vitamin C can reduce histamine levels and provide relief from allergy symptoms (source).
While research shows promising effects, natural supplements have variable results from person to person. Trying different supplements under medical guidance may be necessary to find an effective option with minimal side effects. Overall, natural supplements present little risk and may provide allergy relief when used appropriately.
Consider Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment option that can help desensitize your immune system to cat allergens. There are two main types of immunotherapy for cat allergies:
Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy): You receive injections of a serum containing tiny amounts of cat allergens. The doses are gradually increased over time. This allows your body to build up tolerance to the allergens. According to the NIH, allergy shots can provide longer-lasting relief of allergy symptoms compared to other treatments. However, it may take several months before you notice an improvement in symptoms.
Sublingual immunotherapy drops: Instead of injections, you place allergen extract drops under your tongue. The drops contain trace amounts of cat allergens which are absorbed by the oral mucosa. As with allergy shots, the dosing is gradually increased. Sublingual drops are easier to administer than injections, but may not be quite as effective.
The downside of immunotherapy is that it takes commitment. It can take 3-6 months before you start to see symptom relief. You’ll need to get consistent treatments (either injections or oral drops) for 3-5 years. But once completed, immunotherapy can provide long-lasting relief of cat allergy symptoms. Some studies show the benefits may persist for years after stopping treatment.
Bathe Your Cat
Bathing your cat 1-2 times per month with a mild, pet-safe shampoo can help reduce allergens like dander and saliva that may be present on their fur.1 Use lukewarm water and gently massage the shampoo into their coat, being careful not to get water in their ears. Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo residue. While bathing may provide some temporary allergy relief, studies show that very frequent bathing would be required to significantly reduce allergens, which is not ideal for cats.2
When bathing, keep sessions brief and calm to avoid stressing your cat. Trim their claws first for safety. Talk soothingly and offer treats. Ensure they are completely dry before allowing them to groom, to prevent ingesting residual shampoo.
Bathing too frequently can dry out skin and fur, so limit to only 1-2 baths per month maximum. Cats are very good at self-grooming and excessive washing overrides their natural oils. Work with your vet to find the ideal bathing frequency for your cat and allergies.
As a Last Resort, Re-home
In severe cases where allergy symptoms persist despite trying all other options, re-homing your cat may be a difficult but necessary last resort. Prioritizing the health and wellbeing of family members is important. According to Reddit user u/throwmeawayjno, “The number one choice when allergic is to avoid the allergen if possible. If you treat it any other way it should be because a doctor recommends it.”
While sad, re-homing is sometimes the only viable solution for severe cat allergies. Work to find a caring home through friends, family, local shelters and rescue organizations. Do proper vetting and try to maintain contact if possible. Provide the cat’s medical history. With planning and care, your cat can transition smoothly.
Focus on the positives – your cat can bring joy to a new family, while you get allergy relief. And you may be able to welcome a hypoallergenic pet like a poodle or sphinx cat in the future.