Cat allergies very often lead to cat lovers giving up on the idea of getting one. However, it is possible to live with a cat with the right precautions even if we are allergic to them.
The term ‘cat allergy’ is not correct, as is the term ‘cat hair allergy’. The allergy is triggered by the allergen Fel d1, which originates in the cat’s sebaceous glands and saliva, and is therefore present on the hair, as the cat cleans himself by licking. Here are a number of things to bear in mind if you want to adopt a cat and you are allergic to him.
Symptoms of cat allergy
A cat allergy is a condition that can show up long after you have adopted a cat. It is a common type of allergy, that manifests itself with:
- allergic rhinitis and frequent sneezing
- redness, itching and tearing of the eyes
- contact urticaria
- bronchial asthma
People who have been used to a feline from an early age develop a higher tolerance to allergies. However, this is a precarious balance that can be upset if you adopt another cat, if you deal with a cat that is not your own or if you move away from your living environment, even temporarily.
Tips for adopting a cat if you have an allergy
Adopt a shorthair cat
If you have a cat allergy, you might consider adopting a hairless or short-haired cat, which releases less of the allergen into the environment. As the allergen is also present in saliva, there is still a risk of an allergic reaction. The solution is to meticulously clean all surfaces in the house.
Dedicate specific spaces to the cat
Another way of alleviating a cat allergy is to restrict the cat’s access to certain rooms in the house, such as the bedroom and the kitchen. It is also best to avoid furnishing the house with a lot of carpets, which trap dirt and hair.
Brush your cat regularly
Regular grooming of the cat means that less hair is released into the air, reducing allergic reactions. For combing your cat you can choose the rubber hair removal brush with double comb, GRO 5941, which is also ideal for removing hair from household items.
Even if it’s complicated, living with a cat despite being allergic to him is a possibility. Before adopting a cat, however, it is good to be sure that you can take care of him, paying attention to your own safety and well-being.