According to online medical resource WebMD, 10 percent of people in the United States are allergic to pets.
"Cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies. But contrary to what you might think, it's not the fur or hair that's the real problem," states WebMD. "People with cat allergies are really allergic to proteins in the cat's saliva, urine and dander (dried flakes of skin)."
However, discovering that your cat causes you to have red, itchy eyes and a stuffy nose doesn't mean that you need to find a new home for your furry friend. Here are some tips to keep in mind so you can co-exist with your pet:
Adorn furniture with washable covers – This enables you to regularly wash the areas where your cat spends a lot of time and prevent allergens from building up over time.
Get your cat groomed – There are professional groomers who may use specific products that help reduce allergic reactions to felines. Additionally, this is a great way to get rid of dander.
Make certain rooms off-limits – Keep your pet out of spaces like your home office and your bedroom so that your ability to work and sleep aren't impacted by your sensitivity.
Once you've followed this advice so you can comfortably live in the same home as your feline friend, you may also want to take steps to limit the presence of other ubiquitous allergens. Dust mites can accumulate on your bed and irritate you while you sleep at night. To prevent this from happening, consider investing in hypoallergenic bedding such as pillow cases, sheets and mattresses.
