i am allergic to cats but i want one?

Question

i am allergic to cats but i am wanting to get one.I have a pet rabbit and i was having problems when i frist got it would it be the same with a cat.i take alavert and have been to the Dr. i want an indoor cat.i don't have a backyard to put it in the dog has the run of the lawn.Is there any thing i can do to help me out so i don't get as bad.

Answer 1

Hi there...consider fostering a kitty temporarily to see how your allergies are affected. Many of the shelters are always looking for foster homes. Keep in mind that some cats produce more dander than others and it doesn't matter whether it's a long or short hair as dander is produced from the saliva. But there are ways to reduce the dander with grooming, vacuuming, air filters, various allergy meds (like you're already taking), etc.

Here's an article taken from About.com about living with cats and allergies:

Many cat lovers are denying themselves the pleasure of feline companionship because of allergies to cats. Here are some quick tips for minimizing cat dander, the microscopic flakes of dried saliva on cats' skin which cause allergy.

Here's How:

1. Cajole a non-allergic housemate or friend to brush the cat daily and bathe him weekly. [Edit: Nature's Miracle has dander towlettes so that bathing is easier]
2. Ask your veterinarian about a spray for kitty's coat that will minimize dander. [Edit: Nature's Miracle has a spray for this as well]
3. Replace curtains and drapes with solid blinds, carpeting and rugs with hardwood floors or tile.
4. Minimize overstuffed furniture in your home.
5. Vacuum regularly with a vacuum cleaner equipped with a Hepa filter.
6. Invest in an air purification appliance. Compare the Honeywell and Alpine Air systems.
7. Wipe down walls and flat surfaces regularly.
8. Keep your bedroom off-limits to the feline brigade.
9. Ask your allergist about making a serum from a sample of your cat's hair.
10. If you don't yet have a cat, consider a shorthair over longhair. They tend to have less dander.

If you're looking for a purebred, try a Rex breed or Sphynx. Ask the breeder if you can spend a couple of hours around their cats to test your allergic reactions. Some people claim these cats are 'allergy-safe,'although opinions vary.

[Edit: remember all cats produce dander even hairless cats]

Answer 2

People can be alergic to cat saliva ( they lick their fur) and sometimes feel that the fur is the problem too.

I suggest you get a kitten and introduce it to baths. Get a gentle cat shampoo and maybe monthly use just a little soap (which you can find an allergy releaver shampoo too) and put them in the bathroom sink in pleasant water. Hold them gently by the front paws while you scoop a little water on their back, etc. Make it a good experience for the cat. All of my cats do well with baths because I started them as kittens. I have allergies too, it helps to vacuume often too that keeps the hair from flying around. Limit where the cat goes, not in your bedroom, that is a place you need not have animals. Wash your hands after handling.

Answer 3

The reason most people are allergic to cats is because the cat licks their fur and it is the saliva that you are allergic to. Maybe it's not such a good idea to have a cat...unless you wash your hands after every time you pet it. If you do happen to get a cat, good luck!

Answer 4

Many people believe that fur and dander is the problem for allergic reactions. But it isn't. Its from their saliva. Since cats are constant groomers their saliva is all over them. It is possible that you are allergic because you are not used to it. Their are products such as dry bath cloths that can be used to keep it to a minimum. If you are adopting a cat from the humane society see if they will let you have a trail period for a week to see how your allergies react to it.

I'm not allergic to my two cats but I'm allergic to my friend's cat. But I don't live with her cat.

Answer 5

I am allergic to so many things, including dogs and cats. I have a big shepard/boxer and two cats. I take allergy medication and have no problems. Get allegra 180 off your dr.

Answer 6

I have heard that Zyrtec is best for these types of allergies, but I don't think it has an over-the-counter version yet.

Don't let people tell you that getting a hairless breed, like Devon Rex, will make it easier on you. It's not the hair - it's the dander (tiny skin scales, you know - like dandruff).

PLEASE don't get a cat unless you're positive you can handle it. So many kitties wind up in the pound because people don't give it a thorough thinking-over.

Answer 7

no carpet and sweep a lot. Talk to the Dr. about meds for you. Choose a short hair breed and keep everything squeeky clean. You should be ok with all of the above. Good luck and have fun!

Answer 8

I'm allergic to cats and I have 2 of them and I love them. So dude give it a try.

Answer 9

People are allergic to the saliva of cats.....not their hair or whatever else. So, regardless of how long the fur is, you may still be allergic. I would go the prescription drug route that way you can have the cat and still enjoy it. Please adopt from a shelter. Good luck. :)

Answer 10

get a cat that has short hair and it will have to be brushed and bathed keep a air purifer in the home to help and give it a trial run to see if you can handle it.