Like all allergies, symptoms of cat allergies include itchy eyes, sneezing, a runny nose, and coughing.
Many people don’t realize this, but cat allergies are not necessarily related to their fur, but to their saliva. Cats are avid self-bathers, so when they lick their fur their saliva transfers that allergy-inducing material to their fur, which is then shed onto furniture, clothes, and floors.
Cat allergens are one-sixth the size of other common pollens, so it’s difficult to reduce their occurrence completely.
Cat allergies are relatively common, as about 2% of the population experiences allergy symptoms around cats. However, a whopping one-third of these people choose to keep at least one cat as a pet.
But how do they do it? You may be dating someone with a cat or living with a roommate who refuses to rehome their furry friend. Our specialists for allergy relief in Los Angeles detail how you can still live with a cat despite having an allergy.
- Restrict the cat’s access to certain areas, like your bedroom.
You can try to keep certain areas of your home off-limits to your cat. Especially in places like your bedroom, keeping the cat out will limit the amount of fur and dander that end up there. It’s especially important to keep the cat’s fur away from your pillows and comforter, as you will be close to these all night.
- Air Out Your Home
Make sure to regularly open the windows to let the fresh air into your home. This will increase ventilation, thus limiting the circulation of the stale air inside your home. Keeping your home insulated will trap the cat’s fur and dander in your home. You can also try buying a powerful air purifier to cleanse the air you breathe.
- Diligently Take Your Allergy Medicine
Above all, you should take your medicine! Your sinus doctor in Los Angeles can prescribe you a myriad of antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops, and aerosol inhalers. This will help your allergy symptoms be less noticeable. Recent studies have also shown that Vitamins C and E have demonstrated significant anti-allergen effects.