Does living with your feline friend make you break out in a rash, sneeze, or struggle to peer through watery eyes? Many cat owners suffer through allergies to their pet, but allergic responses to cat hair and dander are manageable. Try the following tips from our veterinary team at Pequot Lakes Animal Hospital to be more comfortable around your favorite feline.
#1: Switch your cat’s diet
While your cat’s food may feed their inner predator, switching their diet can reduce your allergic response to your four-legged friend. All cats produce a common allergen in their saliva, but Purina Pro Plan LiveClear contains an essential protein sourced from eggs that bind to and neutralizes the allergen. LiveClear is a revolutionary cat food shown to reduce the allergens in cat hair and dander by an average of 47%, starting in the third week of daily feeding. Talk to our team to see if feeding LiveClear is the right choice for your cat.
#2: Minimize dander and cat hair in your home
Allergens from cat hair and dander can trigger severe allergic responses, but reducing the culprit can clear up your allergy signs. Dusting and vacuuming frequently, keeping your cat off furniture and your bed, and washing your hands after petting your cat can help minimize allergic reactions. Ventilation and filtered air can also go a long way toward reducing allergies—place a free-standing HEPA air filter unit in the room your cat most frequents to filter out allergens.
#3: Bathe your cat regularly with waterless shampoo
Most cats don’t appreciate running water and baths, but waterless shampoo can replace routine baths. Work a foaming feline shampoo into your cat’s coat, and then brush the shampoo out—no water required. Regular “bathing” with waterless shampoo can reduce the allergens in your cat’s hair and dander.
Is your furry friend wreaking havoc on your sinuses? Consider having your cat groomed by a professional to minimize cat hair and dander in your home. Before your cat’s grooming appointment, ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations for protection. Contact us to schedule an appointment at Pequot Lakes Animal Hospital.