Your life could be probably described as a never-ending battle with cat allergies – and, a continuous supply of OTC allergy drugs. But, of course, you and your cat are inseparable. In fact, your battle with cat allergies could possibly be summed up with the adage that “love could conquer all.” But when your doctor recommends giving your precious feline friend away just to help your son get better (turns out your son’s never-ending cold is because of his being allergic to cats), you are left asking whether there could be some other “less harsh” methods to control your and your son’s allergy.

It’s Not the Fur: Myth on Cat Allergies

At least 10% of the total U.S. population is allergic to their pets; and, the incidence of having cat allergies over other types of pet allergies: twice the number.

We grew up believing that those that are allergic to cats have accumulated a massive cat fur ball prior to manifesting symptoms commonly associated with pet allergies. In fact, the popularity of vacuum to most of our household could be credited to our prevention of developing allergies caused by pet hairs. But science (and, of course, modern research) begs to differ. People who are, in general, allergic to cats are really – and, in reality – allergic to the proteins that are present in cat’s urine, saliva, and dander (or, basically their dried skin flakes).

But basically how could this allergen cause our symptoms? People who have cat allergies have oversensitive immune systems. So when their bodies detect the intrusion of seemingly harmless things – like that protein left by your cat – they aggressively attack and destroy those objects like the way they would on viruses. And, your symptoms? These are basically the side effects that your body would instantaneously manifest when it has destroyed these allergens.

Do I Really Have a Cat Allergy?

Symptoms that could tell that you are allergic to cats include,

- Uncontrollable wheezing and coughing
- Rash on your chest and, worse, face
- Itchy and red eyes
- Redness on the portion of the skin where the cat has actually bitten, scratched, or had just licked you
- Stuffy or runny nose (aren’t you too familiar with this?)

But, of course, these symptoms are really some telltale signs that you are allergic to cats. But, don’t just blame your cute, little Miss Whiskers here. In fact, you might want to see your doctor to recommend blood or skin test to see if you are really allergic to your beloved cat. But these tests have their margin of error. Your doctor, who understands how you just can’t stand being away from your cat forever, may recommend parting with your cat for a few weeks to see how this could actually affect your symptoms.

Living with Cat Allergies: Doing What You Could Take

Unfortunately, you could not prevent the occurrence of your allergy. Here are some traditional treatments for cat allergies that you are too allergic with and some things that you could actually try to reduce the incidence of the manifestations of your symptoms.

- Allergy drugs. Antihistamines like Benadryl and Astelin.
- Allergy shots. Simply one of your best options if you just can’t part with your feline friend. But to become really effective, allergy shots would take years just to complete a full cycle of treatment.
- Reduction of your exposure to cat. Just keep your distance or restrict your pet to an area in your home.
- Clean often. By simply exercising hygiene, you could reduce manifestation of your allergy symptoms.