A lot of cat lovers around the world feel that they cannot actually own a cat themselves as it would cause havoc on their senses. The common allergic reactions that occur include watery eyes, constant sneezing and a runny nose. However, cats can also cause problems for people with breathing difficulties such as asthma sufferers. The severity of the allergy will have a direct impact on whether or not a person will be able to adapt and introduce a pet into their household environment. This article is going to look into what steps can be taken to help people who are allergic to perhaps become a cat owner.
The first step that can be taken is to try and use medical remedies to help reduce the reactions. One such method is immunotherapy which is when a person allergic to cats receives a regular injection that is designed to stimulate their body's natural response to cat allergens. There is also a range of natural remedies that can be taken that are often used by people who do not want to go through the lengthy process of immunotherapy. Anyone wanting to take a natural remedy should consult with their doctor or allergist to see which product could work well for them.
The key to successfully introducing a cat into the household of a person that is allergic is to do so very gradually. Not only will this help the potential owner to possibly build up a tolerance to cat dander but it will also ensure that no serious health issue arises from a sudden initiation. Before bringing a cat home, the potential owner should think about removing and replacing all items or decorations that can hold allergens like dust and mites; such items include curtains, rugs, fabric-covered furniture or fabric of any kind. Whilst this may seem a bit extreme, it can be an excellent way to reduce cat dander becoming trapped and inside the house and so reduce allergies.
Another task to consider undertaking is to visit a friend's cat, say once a week or fortnight, so that the potential owner can test out if their medication is working. Again, gradual steps are the key here and so the person, after taking their allergy medication half an hour before, should spend around 5 minutes with the cat and see how their body reacts. If they seem to be okay then they can gradually increase the amount of time spent with the friend's cat. If the allergies are still present after the first initial contact then the person should talk to their doctor where they will re-evaluate what remedy to take.
Once a person has developed a tolerance to an individual cat they may then want to attend a few cat shows to see how they react. If they seem to be okay then they may be ready to bring home a cat of their own; if not, then they will have to keep trying to build up a tolerance. As with all things pet related, patience is a key. Someone that suffers from allergies cannot expect to become immune to cats overnight, it takes a bit of time and effort. I know as I suffer from allergies and have lived with two cats successfully for two years.
Please be aware that this article is for reading purposes only and does not qualify as a medical document what-so-ever. If you would like advice about allergies and cats then please do speak to your local GP.
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