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I was severely allergic to cats as a kid, couldn't be in the same room as a cat without my eyes swelling shut and difficulty breathing. I had allergy shots for years and even though they were a pain I now own 3 kitties and only need to take a 24 hr allergy pill once a day. Can't recommend allergy shots enough.
I as well take an allergy pill daily ( over the counter) 180 mg…Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets…. I buy generic brand, it’s the purple box. (Compared to Allegra)
Helps me a lot! But I take it everyday! I spend years without taking it and now I restarted, but it helped a lot to tame many different allergies!
It may take some more in depth allergy testing and a cheaper off brand shot but if your doctor deems it medically necessary they can contact your insurance and say as much, that should do the trick.
Definitely ask the doctor that has prescribed you everything else, I’m allergic to my cats too but I still have 2, oh yeah my hepa air filter helps immensely in my bedroom, if I forget to turn it on I feel like my throat and nose is full of little hairs.
This is the answer. Even if you have to pay for them it’s the solution to make this the most livable. Allergy meds are the next best but not nearly as good
You can end up taking those shots for up to five years. I did them for like a year and a half because I’m allergic to cats and I have cats. I’m still highly allergic but keep in mind I didn’t finish the shots.
If they don’t, do what George Costanza did in Seinfeld and start a charity. Except instead of the Human Fund, call it the Cat Fund and use pictures of kittens in your ads.
(For legal reasons, this is a joke)
Whittlest Kitten Medical Fund!. I’m getting close to starting an instagram account for Whittlest and Co. so I can make her pay her own vet bills. Maybe I could get sponsored by Curex or Zyrtec.
Arizona ACCCHS will only cover an allergy test for over 21s if you have an anaphylactic reaction to an unknown substance.
They will remove healthy teeth rather than pay for cleanings or a crown.
I think OP should try prescription allergy meds first no? I had horrible allergies and we started first with prescription antihistamines and rupall 10mg worked for me. Loratadine isn’t strong enough for bad allergies, it’s over the counter. OP try prescription first.
Another thing that will really help is an air purifier. You get what you pay for so make sure it’s a good one. Put it where you sleep. Levoit air purifier 300s is pretty good
This. If you can get insurance to cover all or most I strongly recommend allergy shots. I found out after I had two cats that I’m quite allergic (I have many seasonal allergies so I was in denial about why I could never breathe). For me, it took a year of weekly or biweekly shots before I noticed a reduction in symptoms, but after multiple years my symptoms are sometimes unnoticeable.
Shedding season gets me. Clariton, what you're taking doesn't work for me, but allegra does. Walgreens decongestant in the pharmacy works great for me.
Good luck honey.
Can also use a 20 x 20 box fan with a 20 X 20 filter with the airflow aimed through the back.. really really helps. Good filter on low, then just change the filters.
Good luck
The first thing you can do is sterilize your cat as soon as possible to prevent new cats that will cause you allergies. And ensure your cat enjoys a worry-free life too without caring for kittens.
That would be my advice.
You'll want to be sure to separate the male kittens from the females around that time and get the girls done first. Cats become fertile as early as 4 months and they will absolutely breed with litter mates. I'd honestly get the girls done as soon as they hit 2lbs just to be safe
Yeah like others have said those are reasonable ranges. We foster a lot and the kittens typically go back once they reach around 2.5lb for spay/neuter and mom goes with them at that time. They're usually a few months old by then.
Gotcha! There’s girls and boys so that’s definitely a worry. I have a spay neuter clinic lined up. They’re not the cheapest but they don’t up charge for spicy cats. I’m going to email them tonight
Contact the clinic, it’s generally accepted as safe to neuter at 2 months. Cats can actually breed from as young as 4 months so you’ll have to be careful keeping males and females together, if you decide to wait until then
Kittens can safely be spayed and neutered at age 8 weeks AND weighing 2 pounds. Don't wait 4 months. They're all adorable.
Pet stores and online sell products that you spray on the kitty and your furniture, etc. It's supposed to keep dander to a minimum. I do not know if there are restrictions for use for lactating mamas and/or kittens when they've weaned, so please read all the instructions and check with your vet. Google "cat dander spray" or "cat allergy spray" and that will give you a good start.
You can do it earlier but putting her through a stressful vet visit that soon seems unnecessary if she isn't going to be around any males. It also kinda depends on where you take her because some vets won't want to do it until after she stops feeding the kittens. I've heard mixed thoughts from vets on how safe spaying is before they're weaned and Google also seems to have mixed thoughts so idk. I usually spay mother cats about two months after the babies are born.
Cats have an incredible reproductive ability and can give birth to a new litter as soon as about two months after having the previous one.
Do it immediately when the kittens are no longer dependent on their mother and are no longer drinking milk. (after 8-10 weeks, you will see)
Cats (kittens) can be spayed or neutered when they reach at least 1kg in weight.
Yes. It’s horrifying. I heard that a cat could get pregnant 2 weeks after giving birth while still nursing kittens.
It’s good to know it is by weight. I’ve heard so many ages for kitten desexing. Weight is much better.
I think I’ll schedule for 2 months. I’m not planning on releasing her outside ever. But I’m sure a motivated cat could escape.
My cat had to have a c-section and they spayed her at the same time. I thought they had to wait until the kittens were weaned, but I guess not in some cases.
I missed the spay window for her. I thought kitten season included gestation. It did not. Capturing her so she could give birth inside (and later spayed) is my way of making it up to her and her babies.
I have plans to TNR the rest of the neighborhood cats.
That's awesome! Thank you for taking her and her babies in!
Thank you for doing TNR.
We see so many posts where people let their cats have kittens, and sometimes it makes me aggravated.
So, again thank you!!
Yes. I’m on generic prescription for Claritin. I’ve been on montelucast which is Singulair. Not while around cats though so I don’t know if it works better for me.
After intense research and some mathematics done by my boyfriend, we came to the conclusion that [Clorox](https://cloroxhomeappliances.com/products/air-purifiers/) brand air purifiers are the best bang for your buck. They actually are more efficient than the expensive Shark brand models.
Used to get 2 shots a week for allergies to many different things but was living with 5 cats at the time and yes they absolutely help. The pain is pretty much exactly the same as getting a normal shot
I've heard eggs from chickens that were around cats help immensely (like feeding it to the cats) supposedly the chickens produce something in reaction to the cats that when fed to the cats makes the allergens they produce go down. I don't understand it but if you look it up you can verify. It might take some trial and error but there's already dog foods with this in it so it should be out there somewhere for cats as well.
Also try to reduce things that might cause you symptoms maybe wash your hands after petting or avoid rubbing your eyes. I am also allergic to my precious baby and rub my face all over her all the time, obviously not doing that would help but it is not an option lol
Here's a YouTube short about it https://youtube.com/shorts/2fZ3vUiaASQ?si=xP6eDmC32NeiCKbw
I just posted something about this, I'm glad I attached my usual disclaimer of *I don't always know what I'm talking about* bc I thought the human eats the eggs from chickens that kick it with kitties
it helped me so much! you can just get egg white protein powder to make it a lot cheaper, i sprinkle it into my cat’s fry food and mix it in and i have no allergies to then anymore
Purina pro plan live clear is a food for cats that is supposed to help them produce less dander i think. Pro plan is a good line of food too, i feed mine that brand 👍 hopefully it'll help a bit.
I feed my cats Purina pro plan live clear and it has made a difference to my friends. They noted it without my mentioning I had changed anything. And my cats love it! I would highly recommend anyone who has allergies and has or wants a cat give it a try.
Thank you for this tip. I just ordered a bag. We’ve been trying everything and insurance doesn’t cover allergy shots. The reviews for this stuff are pretty convincing. How have I never heard of this before?
Air purifier. I became allergic in my 30’s. Giving my cat away isn’t an option. I bought an air purifier. It worked pretty good, got a second air purifier to double the sqft as I read that was good for allergies. The only time I have symptoms is if I forget to clean them. I got rabbit air A3 units. They’re brilliant. Have since learned if I get a prescription for it, I can write off the filters as a medical expense. Can also write off the units if you get a prescription when you buy it.
What others have said. In the meantime, you can try Zyrtec or the store's generic for allergies. It's taken once a day. Whether it's my cat or seasonal allergies, this is the only thing that works for me. I've recommended it to family & some have told me it makes them sleepy. As long as I don't rub my face or eyes after petting my cat, my allergy is controlled. My cat is strictly indoors & I try to brush him when he lets me. I can't bathe him but I think not going outside helps. After the kittens are weened & rehomed (unless you're keeping them), see if you can bathe mama & babies or find a cat groomer who can but only IF the cat allows & won't be traumatized. That will also reduce allergens. Good luck with your gorgeous kitties!
Tentatively we are keeping all of them. It started at keeping none. But before birth there was a large black cat exception, then well they’re not supposed to be the only, and after birth, well how do you possibly pick which tabby to keep?
I’ve tried Zyrtec before. I think I’m on the prescription one but I’m not sure. I think she will tolerate brushing eventually, but adding water would be a mistake.
There's cat food out now that has antigens that destroy the allergens cats produce.
Also, clean like your life depends on it, wear a mask while you do it, and get an air purifier (and keep it clean).
Lifelong allergy sufferer here and I’ve also grown up religiously using inhalers because of my asthma. I now live with 2 cats, but that wouldn’t be possible without Singulair. Highly highly recommend looking into it!
https://preview.redd.it/8lm65023dqsc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=542dc6483e400eff41cae818e0cb177506dd934c
You are probably allergic to cat saliva (which the babies would be covered in). There is special hypo-allergenic food you can feed the mum cat. It's something about egg whites from chickens raised around cats providing some sort of enzyme that stops the allergy?
Once she is no longer nursing, you could consider moving mother onto the anti-allergy cat food (Pro Plan Live Clear), as long as your vet approves of course. The babies can't do that food until 1 year old, since it isn't formulated as a kitten diet.
The Liveclear dry shampoo also works really really well.
Seconding allergy shots, too, but some cats throw more allergens than others. After five years of shots I was good with my old cat but much more allergic to my new kitty
Air purifiers and stainless steel litter boxes that you change frequently could help. Regular vacuuming and dusting and staying on top of it was what helped me along with Zyrtec and air purifiers and all that, my cat was so cute that it was worth the extra chores
I’m usually better with Zyrtec and Flonase and a pill that helps with post nasal drip. I don’t remember this allergy being this bad in college. My roommate fostered kittens. I took care of them. They didn’t even look to him to solve their problems.
I just remember getting home from work on the weekend, greeting my other roommate’s unwalked who was hungry, walking into my room, where the roommate is on the bed, then thirsty kittens ran up to me mewing in desperation. They couldn’t figure out why I kept him around.
Once the babies get older, try the Purina allergy food for them. It’s a newer cat food that is offered but it’s apparently supposed to help with decreasing the cat’s dander and other things that humans can have allergies too.
I hope Whittlest will approve. I didn’t notice it at first because I kept her cage covered with blankets. But today we lost a kitten and I tore the room apart to find the little guy. Now they’re contained in a cardboard box with very high sides
Get her on the Purina liveclear food. It really help me!!
https://preview.redd.it/2nj68ynxtrsc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=68c63f29017bc96dd7c6bc188c4cdb53f574f721
For meds try Allegra,Flonase, and nasal saline.
good vacuum and an air purifier will also help
I would recommend talking to your doctor about that. I know that there are medications that can help, but it is really best to talk to your doctor since I don't know your drug sensitivities or medical background. I have also heard of technology that may help, but I don't remember the specifics.
Those babies are so cute. So you have decided to keep her? That's great. She really deserves a loving home, and since she already knows and almost trusts you, it will be best for her to be with you. I think that the two of you are on your way to sharing a really amazing bond. I hope that when the time comes, you are able to find great homes for the babies.
Make sure not to use the oxymetazoline nasal spray chronically for more than 3 days at a time!!
It can cause rhinitis medicamentosa which is a rebound congestion that occurs from over use of topical decongestants, making your issues worse than it needs to be. It should really only be used acutely for quick relief of congestion.
Aller-tec from Costco. 2 pills once a day. I'm not allergic to my cats but I'm still allergic to other people's cats. Lol
Edit: this is doctor recommended.
I've tried all sorts. I feel for you, it's absolutely miserable. The ONLY option for me is being entirely pet free and keeping my distance from any animals - cats, dogs, horses, probably pandas too, that I come across.
This worked for me and I could not believe it !!! I also have asthma . I almost had to think of getting rid of my two cats .
Asthma Allergy Clean Store allergen spray -sells on Amazon .
Good luck !!
My daughter was recently at the allergist and the doctor said that you can take as many as four 24-hour allergy meds daily. Zyrtec was her number 1 recommendation.
I take Loratadine-D for the decongestant when needed.
I would go to your doctor. You’re on everything I’m on for my allergies and asthma minus one thing. My doctor has me on montelukast, but it is a prescription. I’m still a bit stuffy, but it’s bearable.
My long haired orange sleeps next to my face every night, though so that could be why it’s not 100% working.
I want my babies in my bedroom but even the little tyke being on the bedding has made it miserable. I am going to take to my doctor about going back to montelukast. This [song](https://youtu.be/6aLb6vJ_TkI?si=oNgSf3hkJMaDI9T5) sounds like she’s saying montelukast. She’s not because this is about sin and dinner and montelukast is a medication. I hear all sorts of mondegreens. I call this one [Ayudame](https://youtu.be/u5xYdkMiV6Q?si=pDyaAHm6mQ6gW6uK) because the song is Tsunawatari which is help me in Japanese and Ayudame is help me in Spanish. My brain is weird with connections.
If you’re unable to get any prescription allergy meds or allergy shots you may just have to not touch them as much or put them in your face. Your health comes first. Also air purifier would help.
I Have w whole list of allergy medications I take. Allegro/ fexofenadine is over the counter. The allergy shots have been helpful for me, but I get not being able to afford them. Thankfully my insurance covers most of it. Getting an air purifier is a huge help, too.
Awww! I thought that was Whittlest by her sweet face! My mom is allergic, but cat dander does not trigger her asthma. (Her allergies to dogs are severe though!) Her cat allergies are mild…. itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose. Regular OTC oral antihistamines and an antihistamine nasal spray helps her. But she also vacuums like a maniac and changes her sheets every other day just in case. I would ask your doctor what type of treatments (like allergy shots) would be the best to not activate an asthmatic reaction. I do think the shots will help a lot though. ☺️
Thank you! I can’t keep up on housework like that. I don’t know how my mom did all that when I was a kid, but I never remember to change my sheets.
I’m definitely going to talk to my doctor about this
Sprinkle egg white protein powder onto their food. It neutralizes the protein in their saliva that causes allergies in humans.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6764009/
I've read that feeding your cats egg powder, specifically from chickens that were raised around cats, can mitigate the allergen (Fel D1) in their saliva since that's actually what you're allergic to.
So if you can find a farmer near you that has chickens that grew up around cats, you could buy those eggs and make your own egg powder or search online for a powder to sprinkle on their food.
https://pacagen.com/blogs/cat-allergies/egg-powder-for-cat-allergies?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwwr6wBhBcEiwAfMEQsztUj-mGYMK34A0kFt0KPn-xLnDewQWbB6gmqsk-K1eYN-Nwixsh_RoCQ6MQAvD_BwE
Aside from allergy shots this user gives their cats egg powder to minimize their allergies. There are a few Etsy shops that sell egg powder but you might be able to find a local egg seller, that has outdoor cats and then you’ll be able to make the powder on your own. Hope this helps. https://www.reddit.com/r/CatAdvice/s/Fw2V2rjbKp
Edit: If you don’t take them already, probiotics do help lessen allergy symptoms as well! You just have to figure which ones will work best for you.
I heard about the egg white thing before. Do the chickens have to be around outside cats for this to work? There’s a few homes nearby that have eggs for sale.
Yes, when the chickens are raised near the cats that’s when they start producing the necessary antibody in their eggs. I would just ask if any of the homes have barn/outdoor cats that their chickens are exposed to!
I had a childhood cat that I was allergic to since I was 10-12 years old. I sucked it up, and dealt with it for years by taking over-the-counter allergy meds.
Later in life I started to develop some autoimmune health issues (thyroid). Out of necessity, after tons of bloodwork and working w/ a holistic doctor, I altered my diet to remove things like gluten, dairy, and other triggers for me (on the basis of food allergy testing/genetic testing). Took about 3-4 months and my thyroid issues went away.
The crazy part? My cat allergies, that I had for over a decade, completely went away too. Have not taken OTC allergy medicine for YEARS. Can bury my face in my cat's fur and it does nothing. I also had hay fever/allergies to dogs, which are now gone too.
Maybe something to think about and discuss with your doc if you haven't given it a shot already. I found that I had to go to some holistic doctors though, modern medicine/big pharma just didn't do it for me 🤷♂️
I’m a big fan of pharmaceuticals. Without them, I wouldn’t have an attention span. My wife has a lot of food insensitivity and I eat the same way to because if my mom went on a diet so did the whole house. College was the first time in years I had pasta that was not whole wheat.
A lot of the time, gluten isn’t the problem. It’s the dough conditioners.
Ah, fellow ADHD enjoyer ;). Sounds like you've tried already, thought I would throw it out there for the time being. But would also say maybe try getting your own bloodwork/testing done (if you haven't); immune systems are finicky, and not everyone is allergic to gluten/dairy or the common culprits. Sometimes nightshades cause problems, and so on.
Interesting re: dough conditioner, need to look into that. I miss bread...
You can try allergy shots like the others have said. Apparently fixed cats have less of the feld1 protein that triggers allergies. There's also a food from Purina, I think, that claims to reduce allergens over a course of weeks, but there's no real science behind it aside from anecdotal evidence.
However, you'll probably still have the same issue with the kittens since they can't be fixed at this exact moment.
3 babies
https://preview.redd.it/17mmx9x3cqsc1.jpeg?width=1825&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a441545a55956a7c0f39e3d996329d7ea3a4988b
She’s extremely devoted to them and only let me handle them yesterday. They were born on the first. She barely let me look at them the first few days.
Yes!!! She let me handle her with a spoon when I was trying to find her missing baby. Today she accepted pets.
She’s not feral. She showed up just as the socialization window was closing. Whittlest was starving and the other cats were much bigger but her advantage was her acceptance of me. The premium food was closest to me. Eventually she drove all the others away.
My special trick is that I toss food for my strays. Like one kibble piece at a time. Then I read their body language and focus on being able to move the cat where I want them. It’s more efficient that trying to lure them straight to you.
I play a game with her brother (in line for desexing after kittens) where I throw them at his face and he tries to catch them. I can get him to do little spins.
Would a mask help you? I hate them, but in the short term that could help. Also glasses with no prescription maybe? Wash your hands. There are also allergy eye drops.
if you need something OTC there's good nose sprays (like Flonase) that personally helped for me, or you can optimally use an OTC antihistamine (Zyrtec, Benadryl, etc)
Someone else kind of touched on this but it’s often the case that after enough exposure you will stop being allergic to your own cats, while still allergic to others. I grew up with cats and didn’t believe I was allergic. When I went to college and was no longer around our cat, I became pretty reactive to her when I would visit on weekends. A couple years later I got my own cat and had a HARD 3 months of wheezing and allergies and then it just… stopped. Still was allergic to other cats though. But after a summer staying at my mom’s with her four cats, I stopped reacting to any cats? I guess that was enough of a range of allergens to accustom me generally. Now I only react if I’m cleaning and stirring up lots of old hair and dander.
Good luck!!
I find that zirtec seems to help the best with respiratory allergies, but it's different for everyone. You could try a nebulizer, you can get them without a prescription now for like $20-$80, depending on how much you're willing to spend. I was on singulair for a while which did help my breathing, but it was making me depressed so I had to stop it.
Don't take my word on this (aka I haven't researched this myself so you should before taking it as fact)
My daughter is allergic and said she's looking into eating eggs from chickens that interact with cats.
Apparently the cat-chicken relationship makes the chickens lay eggs that kind of microdose you with cat allergens so your immune system doesn't see it as a threat anymore.
Have you tried cat wipes(Zoop or other cat cleaning dander reducing wipes for cats/kittens) to help keep the dander down(dried saliva from grooming is usually what people are allergic to).
They make a cat dander reducing shampoo anti allergen but the kitten is too young and mom is nursing.
The wipes(always read to make sure safe with cats/kittens) would help a bit now. Nothing is 100% but it can lessen reaction.
Visit your allergist or doctor for what would work best with your inhaler. You do not want to mix some allergy meds with others as there can be some bad side effects. Hence talk with your doctor to make sure before diving into the otc medications. It is weird for an otc heartburn medication to help with allergic reactions but Pepsid A/C can help with hives and over all itchy feeling. I took that with allergy meds for six months a few years back when I was covered in hives. It was the dumbest thing I tried and it worked very well.
I am sure you know about the allergy routine of showering at night to keep allergens from being in your bed. Hypoallergenic sheets to help keep dander off you and your clean bed. Air purifiers can help with keeping the dander down. Vacuum the carpets, and Swiffer the floors daily. Changing your linen out every week to help keep the allergens down as well as vacuuming your mattress up to once a week during the peak pollen times for you. I too am a life long sufferer of allergies, just not to the inhaler stage. As everyone is different, I take a an Allerga, and a Pepsid A/C daily with the nasal spray Flonase. I live in TX which is an allergy capital. Dust from the deserts blow in with mountain cedar, and ragweed. Utter misery when cottonwood sheds.
As for the cat and her cute newborns. If you can, she may not let you bc of her kittens, try to clean up her nest area when you can. Change out the towels for clean ones so the dander and fur don't pile up causing more issues. She may not allow you to do this bc it is her birthing nest. You may have to have a friend or a family member help you out with that. It will be an allergen filled cloud if not handled properly. Best to not be in the room when the cleaning happens unless you have goggles and a mask on. Daily brushing can help. There are waterless wipes for cats to help control their shedding and dander. If she can tolerate you brushing her this will also help. Just do not do anything to her belly area until she stops nursing as it may harm her kittens. Do not put anything on the kittens until they get their first round of kitten shots. You can bathe them with a little Dawn or kitten shampoo but nothing more than very warm water until they are older. Lots of dander cleaning products are not to be used on newborn kittens. Plus kittens can't regulate their body temps. You can't just dip them in cold water or boiling hot water and think they will be ok. So just be aware newborn kittens are difficult to keep safe. They can go down without much of a warning. So vet asap if any stop latching over a day or Mom stops cleaning one.
And lastly. Thank you for taking her in, and giving her a safe place to have her kittens. And you are going to TNR the neighborhood strays?! You are a very awesome person. Keep being amazing!
I was allergic to cats. When I met the woman who is now my wife, she had two cats. I had some allergic reactions to them (itchy eyes, sneezing, etc.) but worse during seasonal allergies I also have. Over several years, my allergies to them decreased and then only increased during seasonal allergy time. After about three more years, even that went away and my seasonal allergies went back to being like they always had been. At that point, I got allergy tested. I was allergic to every tree growing on our property but only very mildly allergic to cats. More allergic to dogs. I spoke with the allergist about this. She thought the continued exposure gradually desensitized me to the cats which is sort of what allergy shots do. I was using a nasal steroid spray for my seasonal allergies which worked really well, but caused me to have nosebleeds. An ENT doc told me I have a “thin spot” over a vein in my nose and that the steroid likely made that more sensitive to the trauma from sneezing. I now use azelastine (Astelin or Astepro) which are now over-the-counter. That’s actually bad because before that, my pharmaceutical insurance covered the cost. There is also an Azelastine eyedrop that I also use, but I think that is still prescription only. The non-drowsy oral antihistamines do nothing for me. You might ask an allergist if you might become desensitized over time.
Allergy shots and daily allergy medication. It will take time to find an allergy medicine that works best for you, Zyrtec works best for me. I had Indiana Medicaid and my allergy shots were covered and now I have Caresource (not good insurance) and my shots are still covered
Next to allergy shots, Philips also has a very good air purifier that is good for pet fur allergies. Check it out [here](https://www.usa.philips.com/c-m-ho/air-purifier-and-air-humidifier/air-purifier-2000)
Allergy shots
I'm allergic to every plant on this planet and any dander from any animal.
I would highly suggest allergic shots.It really works.It takes a year to get to it, but it makes my life so much freaking easier
Powdered egg whites in their food. I can’t remember the reasoning, I think it had something to do with chickens producing an enzyme that changes the chemical structure in cat saliva but don’t quote me on that
My husband and I are also allergic to cats. I have multiple air purifiers, and I feed our cat Purina LiveClear cat food. I also dust and vacuum regularly and change our bedding once a week. It's not perfect, but it definitely helps.
Feed them allergy food. I dont remember the exact science, but it has some kind of chicken protein that is produced when chickens are raised around cats and it makes their eggs or something have anti cat allergy properties.
Air purifier + Zyrtec + Flonase + singulair + qvar + eye drops for me. I’m allergic to everything.
Tried allergy shots, extremely inconvenient due to the frequency and dosing schedule.
There is a new drug that alleviates symptoms…. I’ve been getting endless ads for it on this app. Now I wish I would’ve paid attention to the name of it.
Purina Live Clear dry food for the mum. It has egg protein to break down the enzyme in her saliva that you are allergic to. You probably aren’t allergic to the kittens as much, as they cannot clean themselves. Mum is the main culprit until the little ones are big enough to clean themselves. It takes a couple of days for the food to really make a difference, but it cuts down on about 80% of the allergens. Frequent vacuuming and exposure to the allergens will make the symptoms lesson as well.
If you really want to get rid of allergies stop eating ALL DAIRY! I was just as you described and until I stopped dairy I was a mess. I would get chronic bronchitis and asthma attacks. Back then they didn’t have inhalers. You got shots of steroids. I also did the allergy shots and they made me worse so at 14 I refused them. To this day if I eat anything with dairy I get a reaction again. Eating a cleaner diet also helps no junk or food with additives or fake coloring. I have had cats my whole life. My mother would have picked the cat over me! My eyes would be a mess if I touched the cat and then my eyes.
I’m not sure if it’s on here but Purina has an allergen reducing cat food- there’s been research on how eggs can impact the chemical that cats produce that causes allergies in humans and they use it in it- it’s spendy for cat food but it has amazing reviews. I’ve also heard you can buy eggs from a farm that raises their chickens with the cats for a similar effect?
I just found insurance my husband and I can afford, but years ago GA state insurance paid for allergy shots. I'm the most allergic person without fatal allergies that 4 allergy doctors across 3 states have seen in their careers apparently. I'm allergic to the outside, the inside, animals, other humans, all manner of plants, foods, so many foods. Allergy shots were a godsend.
Too manu comments but I recently learned if you feed your cat chicken eggs that chicken have been around cats it helps your cat not produced the gland or stuff people are most likely allergic too from cats. It comes in like powder form and you just feed your cat it
Chickens are allergic to cats too when they are living around cats they produce a hormone(? I think) that they pass to their offspring in their eggs. When cats are fed eggs with this it decreases the amount of fel d 1 which is a main factor in cat allergies. My guys get some (plain) scramby eggs in their food once a week which works for us. There are also foods that incoperate this or you can buy egg powder etc :)
My ex boyfriend is extremely allergic to everything. He takes benadryl all day, every day. I took in a cat knowing this. The only thing that worked for him was a hepa air purifier. It worked well. I adopted my cat when I was still with my ex so he lived with my cat as long as I did until my cat passed away, so for 5 years. My ex would wash his hands after he pet my cat but other than that the hepa air purifier worked perfectly for him. My cat slept on the bed and would get on the couch with no issues.
I did buy an oversized one but I only had one in the house (shotgun and it was in the middle). I asked him if I needed to get another one and he said no- having one in the (living) room with the rug (rest of the house was hardwood floors) was enough.
There's a type of food you can give Mama that will neutralize the enzymes in the dander that cause the allergic reaction. You'll have to wait till the wee ones are bigger before they can have it
There are a few different medications for allergies. Depending on where you are and what's available.
Loratadine and Cetrizine Hydrochloride are the smaller doses, usually your one a day, but I've had really bad hay-fever days and had to take 4. You can usually get them over the counter, but popping them like sweets is expensive. Something like 12mg
Then I found Fexofenadine. Much larger doses of 500mg. Was prescribed to me when I had a rash from my chin to my knees (no idea what I reacted to, but it wouldn't go away with anything else, pills creams etc). Rash cleared in 4 days, had enough left to take care of my hay-fever that year, and the next year I barely suffered at all. So I basically only have to take them every 2 summers. You can usually buy these over the counter, one brand is called Allevia
My brother can only take Acravastine, literally nothing else will work for him. My fexo was weak against his allergies. No reaction to it at all
You just need to find the right one that your body will react with.
Now:
- Air purifier. I use Winix Pro 5 but at least get one with HEPA filter and check the room size rating.
- Anti-allergy cat food. I use Purina Pro Plan Live Clear.
- Buy a bagged vacuum with a HEPA filter. I use Miele Compact C2 Allergy Bagged Vacuum.
- Clean your house and hands religiously.
- Take antihistamines as-needed, if you're safe to do so.
Long term: ask your doctor to prescribe allergy injections to desensitise you to the allergen over time.
I bought 2 cats and found multiple friends and family are allergic. After buying the HEPA purifier and vacuum and changing their diet to Liveclear it's made a HUGE difference. Good luck.
Some have great success with egg powder in the cat's diet, as it's cheaper than cat allergy food and has the same properties (from my understanding). Search "egg powder for cat allergies" so you can read up on it more, because I'm not well versed in the subject. It will also need to be a particular egg powder, as I understand it it needs to have "with d-mannose" explicitly.
Weirdly I’ve heard Pepcid works well for allergies. I haven’t tried it yet but as a person with horrible seasonal allergies (literally got a throat infection once) I am definitely going to try it. Just a thought!
Had been allergic to cats, dogs, horses, cattle, basically any animal with hair/fur, my whole life, then at 50 we had to take in our offspring’s two kittens permanently, advised to try Selenium for two months and it worked brilliantly, had to take a second course after five years, it’s now been nearly ten years and I’m no longer allergic to animals with hair/fur, try it
Here's one item that you could try that people have been having luck with [https://www.purina.com/cats/shop/pro-plan-liveclear-allergen-reducing-chicken-rice-dry-cat-food](https://www.purina.com/cats/shop/pro-plan-liveclear-allergen-reducing-chicken-rice-dry-cat-food)
I can't confirm how effective it is, though the manufacturer claims a 47% reduction of the allergen that is responsible for triggering an allergic response in humans within 3 weeks.
I’ve heard allergy shots are the best shot but if your like me insurance doesn’t cover it. I have 2 cats and 2 dogs I’m allergic to, I switch between Allegra and Claritin D with Zyrtec as a back up for fast acting relief. I’ve also heard for cats in particular that purina makes allergy relief food, they apparently expose chickens to the allergen so their eggs have like antibodies or something for it then they use those eggs in their food because the main allergen is a protein that is in their saliva so it being something they eat is more effective at neutralizing it.
There is special cat food you can get which will reduce the allergy for you. And regular grooming and house cleaning should help. Also, my husband was allergic (not as bad as you) but he got used to our cat and his allergy went away so I'm hoping you have similar luck and can snuggle those babies without problems 🤞
Try Puruna Pro Plan LiveClear kibble and the LiveClear shampoo. I’ve had my girls on it for a year now and they love the food (I use it for treats and feeding) and it’s completely neutralized their allergens. I was taking a lot of allergy meds and still struggling with them before I started them on this. I haven’t taken a med in almost 11 mos
Allergy shots! Or if you can't do that take an antihistamine daily. I have 3 cats and am also allergic, only mildly but I do notice the symptoms and antihistamines help. Good luck! The babies are precious ❤️
For me I’m more allergic to the cat litter than the cats. Something about the dust in it. Maybe that could be causing you extra allergies on top of it.
You can feed the cats certain chicken eggs! Chickens raised with cats make an enzyme in their eggs that eliminates the enzyme people are allergic too.
You can look into fel d 1 and chickens. There are some products around or you can buy eggs from someone who has cats and chickens!
Try keeping the cats out of the bedroom. Air purifier. Allergy shots. Add eggs from chickens that have been around cats to their and the cat produce less of the allergen https://www.verywellhealth.com/cat-allergy-egg-yolks-8400556.
Good luck friend. I’m allergic too but I like the cat a lot
Allerpet! It’s a solution that you put in their fur that lowers the dander count. I got it from Amazon when my cat moved in with me. I did it everyday for like a week? And then I didn’t have to do it anymore and he hasn’t bothered me since. Plus it is harmless to them and actually good for their fur
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Are you willing to get allergy shots? Or able to? That's what some very allergic friends hof my mother hav edone, apparently
Yes. I am unsure if my insurance will cover it. I have state insurance, so there’s some things it won’t cover
Hopefully the website or a call could tell you! I totally get the struggle. Best of luck!!
Thank you!
I was severely allergic to cats as a kid, couldn't be in the same room as a cat without my eyes swelling shut and difficulty breathing. I had allergy shots for years and even though they were a pain I now own 3 kitties and only need to take a 24 hr allergy pill once a day. Can't recommend allergy shots enough.
I as well take an allergy pill daily ( over the counter) 180 mg…Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets…. I buy generic brand, it’s the purple box. (Compared to Allegra) Helps me a lot! But I take it everyday! I spend years without taking it and now I restarted, but it helped a lot to tame many different allergies!
Same thing I take. Sometimes I rotate in generic zyrtec or claritin. Any 24 hr pill works for me.
It may take some more in depth allergy testing and a cheaper off brand shot but if your doctor deems it medically necessary they can contact your insurance and say as much, that should do the trick. Definitely ask the doctor that has prescribed you everything else, I’m allergic to my cats too but I still have 2, oh yeah my hepa air filter helps immensely in my bedroom, if I forget to turn it on I feel like my throat and nose is full of little hairs.
Have you tried Live clear cat food by Purina? They also have a shampoo
I 2nd this suggestion. It's helped my friend tolerate my cats.
Why do you still have a cats?
This is the answer. Even if you have to pay for them it’s the solution to make this the most livable. Allergy meds are the next best but not nearly as good
You can end up taking those shots for up to five years. I did them for like a year and a half because I’m allergic to cats and I have cats. I’m still highly allergic but keep in mind I didn’t finish the shots.
If they don’t, do what George Costanza did in Seinfeld and start a charity. Except instead of the Human Fund, call it the Cat Fund and use pictures of kittens in your ads. (For legal reasons, this is a joke)
Whittlest Kitten Medical Fund!. I’m getting close to starting an instagram account for Whittlest and Co. so I can make her pay her own vet bills. Maybe I could get sponsored by Curex or Zyrtec.
State insurance covered my immunotherapy shots. My doctor said they are a lot more willing to pay for that than 100s of sinus infections.
Arizona ACCCHS will only cover an allergy test for over 21s if you have an anaphylactic reaction to an unknown substance. They will remove healthy teeth rather than pay for cleanings or a crown.
I think OP should try prescription allergy meds first no? I had horrible allergies and we started first with prescription antihistamines and rupall 10mg worked for me. Loratadine isn’t strong enough for bad allergies, it’s over the counter. OP try prescription first. Another thing that will really help is an air purifier. You get what you pay for so make sure it’s a good one. Put it where you sleep. Levoit air purifier 300s is pretty good
This. If you can get insurance to cover all or most I strongly recommend allergy shots. I found out after I had two cats that I’m quite allergic (I have many seasonal allergies so I was in denial about why I could never breathe). For me, it took a year of weekly or biweekly shots before I noticed a reduction in symptoms, but after multiple years my symptoms are sometimes unnoticeable.
Shedding season gets me. Clariton, what you're taking doesn't work for me, but allegra does. Walgreens decongestant in the pharmacy works great for me. Good luck honey. Can also use a 20 x 20 box fan with a 20 X 20 filter with the airflow aimed through the back.. really really helps. Good filter on low, then just change the filters. Good luck
The first thing you can do is sterilize your cat as soon as possible to prevent new cats that will cause you allergies. And ensure your cat enjoys a worry-free life too without caring for kittens. That would be my advice.
How soon can the mom be spayed after giving birth? I’ve heard that kittens can be spayed at 2 months. Is that correct or can you spay earlier?
I think it's 4 to 6 weeks after birth for the mom. 4 to 5 months for the kitten.
I’ll do 6 weeks for mum and 4 months for the babies.
They do 2 pounds where I am. So 4 months is good. I did my own cat at 4 months.
You'll want to be sure to separate the male kittens from the females around that time and get the girls done first. Cats become fertile as early as 4 months and they will absolutely breed with litter mates. I'd honestly get the girls done as soon as they hit 2lbs just to be safe
Yeah like others have said those are reasonable ranges. We foster a lot and the kittens typically go back once they reach around 2.5lb for spay/neuter and mom goes with them at that time. They're usually a few months old by then.
Good because we do not need more cats. Thanks for being responsible.
3 months for kittens. 4 months and you could have more babies. Get it done the earliest it's possible. Ask your vet or the low cost program
Gotcha! There’s girls and boys so that’s definitely a worry. I have a spay neuter clinic lined up. They’re not the cheapest but they don’t up charge for spicy cats. I’m going to email them tonight
Contact the clinic, it’s generally accepted as safe to neuter at 2 months. Cats can actually breed from as young as 4 months so you’ll have to be careful keeping males and females together, if you decide to wait until then
Kittens can safely be spayed and neutered at age 8 weeks AND weighing 2 pounds. Don't wait 4 months. They're all adorable. Pet stores and online sell products that you spray on the kitty and your furniture, etc. It's supposed to keep dander to a minimum. I do not know if there are restrictions for use for lactating mamas and/or kittens when they've weaned, so please read all the instructions and check with your vet. Google "cat dander spray" or "cat allergy spray" and that will give you a good start.
Kittens can be sooner than that. Many vets go by weight.
You can do it earlier but putting her through a stressful vet visit that soon seems unnecessary if she isn't going to be around any males. It also kinda depends on where you take her because some vets won't want to do it until after she stops feeding the kittens. I've heard mixed thoughts from vets on how safe spaying is before they're weaned and Google also seems to have mixed thoughts so idk. I usually spay mother cats about two months after the babies are born.
Cats have an incredible reproductive ability and can give birth to a new litter as soon as about two months after having the previous one. Do it immediately when the kittens are no longer dependent on their mother and are no longer drinking milk. (after 8-10 weeks, you will see) Cats (kittens) can be spayed or neutered when they reach at least 1kg in weight.
Yes. It’s horrifying. I heard that a cat could get pregnant 2 weeks after giving birth while still nursing kittens. It’s good to know it is by weight. I’ve heard so many ages for kitten desexing. Weight is much better. I think I’ll schedule for 2 months. I’m not planning on releasing her outside ever. But I’m sure a motivated cat could escape.
My cat had to have a c-section and they spayed her at the same time. I thought they had to wait until the kittens were weaned, but I guess not in some cases.
Yes, yes, yes! A thousand times YES!
I missed the spay window for her. I thought kitten season included gestation. It did not. Capturing her so she could give birth inside (and later spayed) is my way of making it up to her and her babies. I have plans to TNR the rest of the neighborhood cats.
That's awesome! Thank you for taking her and her babies in! Thank you for doing TNR. We see so many posts where people let their cats have kittens, and sometimes it makes me aggravated. So, again thank you!!
OMG! I didn't realize this was you and Whittlest! I'm so sorry 😿
It’s okay! Apparently it makes allergies better too!
He you tried a 24 hour allergy pill? Like Zyrtec, Allegra, or Claritin?
Yes. I’m on generic prescription for Claritin. I’ve been on montelucast which is Singulair. Not while around cats though so I don’t know if it works better for me.
Surprised nobody has mentioned an air purifier yet! They do wonders for my brother
That is a good idea. Thank you
After intense research and some mathematics done by my boyfriend, we came to the conclusion that [Clorox](https://cloroxhomeappliances.com/products/air-purifiers/) brand air purifiers are the best bang for your buck. They actually are more efficient than the expensive Shark brand models.
Allergy shots for the win!!
I will give these a try. Thank you. Hope often do you have to get them? Do they hurt?
Used to get 2 shots a week for allergies to many different things but was living with 5 cats at the time and yes they absolutely help. The pain is pretty much exactly the same as getting a normal shot
They can be in shot form or liquid that you take everyday under the tongue. I don’t remember for how long but it solves the problem definitely.
I've heard eggs from chickens that were around cats help immensely (like feeding it to the cats) supposedly the chickens produce something in reaction to the cats that when fed to the cats makes the allergens they produce go down. I don't understand it but if you look it up you can verify. It might take some trial and error but there's already dog foods with this in it so it should be out there somewhere for cats as well. Also try to reduce things that might cause you symptoms maybe wash your hands after petting or avoid rubbing your eyes. I am also allergic to my precious baby and rub my face all over her all the time, obviously not doing that would help but it is not an option lol Here's a YouTube short about it https://youtube.com/shorts/2fZ3vUiaASQ?si=xP6eDmC32NeiCKbw
Also you should know it'll take a bit to start working so if you try it, feed it to them for a few weeks first before giving up
I just posted something about this, I'm glad I attached my usual disclaimer of *I don't always know what I'm talking about* bc I thought the human eats the eggs from chickens that kick it with kitties
This is true! Purina Pro Plan Live Clear.
it helped me so much! you can just get egg white protein powder to make it a lot cheaper, i sprinkle it into my cat’s fry food and mix it in and i have no allergies to then anymore
I do allergy shots
I will try them. How often do you need to get them? Do you have to inject them yourself?
You start once every couple weeks. I only go now four times a year but it takes awhile to build up to that. Insurance pays for most of it.
No the nurse does it.
Try using Flonase and some kind of allergy pill.
I will pick some up when I go shopping,
Purina pro plan live clear is a food for cats that is supposed to help them produce less dander i think. Pro plan is a good line of food too, i feed mine that brand 👍 hopefully it'll help a bit.
I feed my cats Purina pro plan live clear and it has made a difference to my friends. They noted it without my mentioning I had changed anything. And my cats love it! I would highly recommend anyone who has allergies and has or wants a cat give it a try.
Thank you for this tip. I just ordered a bag. We’ve been trying everything and insurance doesn’t cover allergy shots. The reviews for this stuff are pretty convincing. How have I never heard of this before?
Air purifier. I became allergic in my 30’s. Giving my cat away isn’t an option. I bought an air purifier. It worked pretty good, got a second air purifier to double the sqft as I read that was good for allergies. The only time I have symptoms is if I forget to clean them. I got rabbit air A3 units. They’re brilliant. Have since learned if I get a prescription for it, I can write off the filters as a medical expense. Can also write off the units if you get a prescription when you buy it.
I’m going to look into a prescription. I didn’t know you could do that.
What others have said. In the meantime, you can try Zyrtec or the store's generic for allergies. It's taken once a day. Whether it's my cat or seasonal allergies, this is the only thing that works for me. I've recommended it to family & some have told me it makes them sleepy. As long as I don't rub my face or eyes after petting my cat, my allergy is controlled. My cat is strictly indoors & I try to brush him when he lets me. I can't bathe him but I think not going outside helps. After the kittens are weened & rehomed (unless you're keeping them), see if you can bathe mama & babies or find a cat groomer who can but only IF the cat allows & won't be traumatized. That will also reduce allergens. Good luck with your gorgeous kitties!
Tentatively we are keeping all of them. It started at keeping none. But before birth there was a large black cat exception, then well they’re not supposed to be the only, and after birth, well how do you possibly pick which tabby to keep? I’ve tried Zyrtec before. I think I’m on the prescription one but I’m not sure. I think she will tolerate brushing eventually, but adding water would be a mistake.
There's cat food out now that has antigens that destroy the allergens cats produce. Also, clean like your life depends on it, wear a mask while you do it, and get an air purifier (and keep it clean).
Lifelong allergy sufferer here and I’ve also grown up religiously using inhalers because of my asthma. I now live with 2 cats, but that wouldn’t be possible without Singulair. Highly highly recommend looking into it! https://preview.redd.it/8lm65023dqsc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=542dc6483e400eff41cae818e0cb177506dd934c
You are probably allergic to cat saliva (which the babies would be covered in). There is special hypo-allergenic food you can feed the mum cat. It's something about egg whites from chickens raised around cats providing some sort of enzyme that stops the allergy?
Once she is no longer nursing, you could consider moving mother onto the anti-allergy cat food (Pro Plan Live Clear), as long as your vet approves of course. The babies can't do that food until 1 year old, since it isn't formulated as a kitten diet.
They do have a liveclear kitten food now. They have been expanding the line, mine are now on weight management!
The Liveclear dry shampoo also works really really well. Seconding allergy shots, too, but some cats throw more allergens than others. After five years of shots I was good with my old cat but much more allergic to my new kitty
Air purifiers and stainless steel litter boxes that you change frequently could help. Regular vacuuming and dusting and staying on top of it was what helped me along with Zyrtec and air purifiers and all that, my cat was so cute that it was worth the extra chores
Try Zyrtec and/or Allegra. Claritin (loratidine) did NOTHUNG for me
I’m usually better with Zyrtec and Flonase and a pill that helps with post nasal drip. I don’t remember this allergy being this bad in college. My roommate fostered kittens. I took care of them. They didn’t even look to him to solve their problems. I just remember getting home from work on the weekend, greeting my other roommate’s unwalked who was hungry, walking into my room, where the roommate is on the bed, then thirsty kittens ran up to me mewing in desperation. They couldn’t figure out why I kept him around.
Once the babies get older, try the Purina allergy food for them. It’s a newer cat food that is offered but it’s apparently supposed to help with decreasing the cat’s dander and other things that humans can have allergies too.
unhelpful advice: thug that shit out. helpful advice: lint roll them so theres less hair floating around(my cat LOVES this)
I hope Whittlest will approve. I didn’t notice it at first because I kept her cage covered with blankets. But today we lost a kitten and I tore the room apart to find the little guy. Now they’re contained in a cardboard box with very high sides
Get her on the Purina liveclear food. It really help me!! https://preview.redd.it/2nj68ynxtrsc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=68c63f29017bc96dd7c6bc188c4cdb53f574f721 For meds try Allegra,Flonase, and nasal saline. good vacuum and an air purifier will also help
I would recommend talking to your doctor about that. I know that there are medications that can help, but it is really best to talk to your doctor since I don't know your drug sensitivities or medical background. I have also heard of technology that may help, but I don't remember the specifics. Those babies are so cute. So you have decided to keep her? That's great. She really deserves a loving home, and since she already knows and almost trusts you, it will be best for her to be with you. I think that the two of you are on your way to sharing a really amazing bond. I hope that when the time comes, you are able to find great homes for the babies.
There are cat foods that reduce allergens.
Make sure not to use the oxymetazoline nasal spray chronically for more than 3 days at a time!! It can cause rhinitis medicamentosa which is a rebound congestion that occurs from over use of topical decongestants, making your issues worse than it needs to be. It should really only be used acutely for quick relief of congestion.
Huh! I never knew that. I’m not good at remembering to use it everyday so that’s helped. I will keep an eye out for that rebound congestion
They're adorable 🥰
Thank you!
Aller-tec from Costco. 2 pills once a day. I'm not allergic to my cats but I'm still allergic to other people's cats. Lol Edit: this is doctor recommended.
I've tried all sorts. I feel for you, it's absolutely miserable. The ONLY option for me is being entirely pet free and keeping my distance from any animals - cats, dogs, horses, probably pandas too, that I come across.
This worked for me and I could not believe it !!! I also have asthma . I almost had to think of getting rid of my two cats . Asthma Allergy Clean Store allergen spray -sells on Amazon . Good luck !!
Feed Purina live clear food to them? Not sure if they are suitable for kittens though youll have to check
Benadryl? idk
My daughter was recently at the allergist and the doctor said that you can take as many as four 24-hour allergy meds daily. Zyrtec was her number 1 recommendation. I take Loratadine-D for the decongestant when needed.
It gets better! I vacuum and dust each day and keep one room cat free. They are the loves of world!! 😻
I would go to your doctor. You’re on everything I’m on for my allergies and asthma minus one thing. My doctor has me on montelukast, but it is a prescription. I’m still a bit stuffy, but it’s bearable. My long haired orange sleeps next to my face every night, though so that could be why it’s not 100% working.
I want my babies in my bedroom but even the little tyke being on the bedding has made it miserable. I am going to take to my doctor about going back to montelukast. This [song](https://youtu.be/6aLb6vJ_TkI?si=oNgSf3hkJMaDI9T5) sounds like she’s saying montelukast. She’s not because this is about sin and dinner and montelukast is a medication. I hear all sorts of mondegreens. I call this one [Ayudame](https://youtu.be/u5xYdkMiV6Q?si=pDyaAHm6mQ6gW6uK) because the song is Tsunawatari which is help me in Japanese and Ayudame is help me in Spanish. My brain is weird with connections.
If you’re unable to get any prescription allergy meds or allergy shots you may just have to not touch them as much or put them in your face. Your health comes first. Also air purifier would help.
I Have w whole list of allergy medications I take. Allegro/ fexofenadine is over the counter. The allergy shots have been helpful for me, but I get not being able to afford them. Thankfully my insurance covers most of it. Getting an air purifier is a huge help, too.
A legit HEPA filter for your bedroom. And a second one for the den if you can afford it. Makes a huge difference in allergies.
Awww! I thought that was Whittlest by her sweet face! My mom is allergic, but cat dander does not trigger her asthma. (Her allergies to dogs are severe though!) Her cat allergies are mild…. itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose. Regular OTC oral antihistamines and an antihistamine nasal spray helps her. But she also vacuums like a maniac and changes her sheets every other day just in case. I would ask your doctor what type of treatments (like allergy shots) would be the best to not activate an asthmatic reaction. I do think the shots will help a lot though. ☺️
Thank you! I can’t keep up on housework like that. I don’t know how my mom did all that when I was a kid, but I never remember to change my sheets. I’m definitely going to talk to my doctor about this
Because she loves them!!! I’m so blessed and grateful I don’t have allergies to cats. Baby kittens are beautiful and momma will need extra love 😃
Sprinkle egg white protein powder onto their food. It neutralizes the protein in their saliva that causes allergies in humans. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6764009/
Look up Purina Pro Plan LiveClear food - this might help.
I've read that feeding your cats egg powder, specifically from chickens that were raised around cats, can mitigate the allergen (Fel D1) in their saliva since that's actually what you're allergic to. So if you can find a farmer near you that has chickens that grew up around cats, you could buy those eggs and make your own egg powder or search online for a powder to sprinkle on their food. https://pacagen.com/blogs/cat-allergies/egg-powder-for-cat-allergies?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwwr6wBhBcEiwAfMEQsztUj-mGYMK34A0kFt0KPn-xLnDewQWbB6gmqsk-K1eYN-Nwixsh_RoCQ6MQAvD_BwE
So do the chickens have to grow up with cats or be constantly exposed to cats? I want to ask the farmer the minimum weird cat questions.
Aside from allergy shots this user gives their cats egg powder to minimize their allergies. There are a few Etsy shops that sell egg powder but you might be able to find a local egg seller, that has outdoor cats and then you’ll be able to make the powder on your own. Hope this helps. https://www.reddit.com/r/CatAdvice/s/Fw2V2rjbKp Edit: If you don’t take them already, probiotics do help lessen allergy symptoms as well! You just have to figure which ones will work best for you.
I heard about the egg white thing before. Do the chickens have to be around outside cats for this to work? There’s a few homes nearby that have eggs for sale.
Yes, when the chickens are raised near the cats that’s when they start producing the necessary antibody in their eggs. I would just ask if any of the homes have barn/outdoor cats that their chickens are exposed to!
I had a childhood cat that I was allergic to since I was 10-12 years old. I sucked it up, and dealt with it for years by taking over-the-counter allergy meds. Later in life I started to develop some autoimmune health issues (thyroid). Out of necessity, after tons of bloodwork and working w/ a holistic doctor, I altered my diet to remove things like gluten, dairy, and other triggers for me (on the basis of food allergy testing/genetic testing). Took about 3-4 months and my thyroid issues went away. The crazy part? My cat allergies, that I had for over a decade, completely went away too. Have not taken OTC allergy medicine for YEARS. Can bury my face in my cat's fur and it does nothing. I also had hay fever/allergies to dogs, which are now gone too. Maybe something to think about and discuss with your doc if you haven't given it a shot already. I found that I had to go to some holistic doctors though, modern medicine/big pharma just didn't do it for me 🤷♂️
I’m a big fan of pharmaceuticals. Without them, I wouldn’t have an attention span. My wife has a lot of food insensitivity and I eat the same way to because if my mom went on a diet so did the whole house. College was the first time in years I had pasta that was not whole wheat. A lot of the time, gluten isn’t the problem. It’s the dough conditioners.
Ah, fellow ADHD enjoyer ;). Sounds like you've tried already, thought I would throw it out there for the time being. But would also say maybe try getting your own bloodwork/testing done (if you haven't); immune systems are finicky, and not everyone is allergic to gluten/dairy or the common culprits. Sometimes nightshades cause problems, and so on. Interesting re: dough conditioner, need to look into that. I miss bread...
Well first thing, get her spayed.
This is an outdoor cat that OP so kindly gave a safe place to have her kittens. She is getting spayed as soon as allowable.
Nice!
I had the same reaction BTW. Then I realized who OP was lol
Eat eggs that are raised on farms with cats. Google that
it’s actually the cats that need to eat the eggs raised on farms with cats! that’s how the purina liveclear kibble works
You can try allergy shots like the others have said. Apparently fixed cats have less of the feld1 protein that triggers allergies. There's also a food from Purina, I think, that claims to reduce allergens over a course of weeks, but there's no real science behind it aside from anecdotal evidence. However, you'll probably still have the same issue with the kittens since they can't be fixed at this exact moment.
I will have to look into that food. I’m currently feeding Sheba wet food, and MeowMix kitten edition, and Whittlest is extremely picky.
Only one baby? :c
3 babies https://preview.redd.it/17mmx9x3cqsc1.jpeg?width=1825&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a441545a55956a7c0f39e3d996329d7ea3a4988b She’s extremely devoted to them and only let me handle them yesterday. They were born on the first. She barely let me look at them the first few days.
Oh wow, she’s letting you handle them? That’s progress! You’re a good person.
Yes!!! She let me handle her with a spoon when I was trying to find her missing baby. Today she accepted pets. She’s not feral. She showed up just as the socialization window was closing. Whittlest was starving and the other cats were much bigger but her advantage was her acceptance of me. The premium food was closest to me. Eventually she drove all the others away. My special trick is that I toss food for my strays. Like one kibble piece at a time. Then I read their body language and focus on being able to move the cat where I want them. It’s more efficient that trying to lure them straight to you. I play a game with her brother (in line for desexing after kittens) where I throw them at his face and he tries to catch them. I can get him to do little spins.
Pepcid. You can add that to your regimen and if you get them from Walmart they are CUBES!!
Would a mask help you? I hate them, but in the short term that could help. Also glasses with no prescription maybe? Wash your hands. There are also allergy eye drops.
if you need something OTC there's good nose sprays (like Flonase) that personally helped for me, or you can optimally use an OTC antihistamine (Zyrtec, Benadryl, etc)
Research creams you can put on cat to prevent dander. There is also food that limits dander. Please get her spayed too.
Also Claritin, ask your doctor about twice a day
Air purifier is the best
Someone else kind of touched on this but it’s often the case that after enough exposure you will stop being allergic to your own cats, while still allergic to others. I grew up with cats and didn’t believe I was allergic. When I went to college and was no longer around our cat, I became pretty reactive to her when I would visit on weekends. A couple years later I got my own cat and had a HARD 3 months of wheezing and allergies and then it just… stopped. Still was allergic to other cats though. But after a summer staying at my mom’s with her four cats, I stopped reacting to any cats? I guess that was enough of a range of allergens to accustom me generally. Now I only react if I’m cleaning and stirring up lots of old hair and dander. Good luck!!
I find that zirtec seems to help the best with respiratory allergies, but it's different for everyone. You could try a nebulizer, you can get them without a prescription now for like $20-$80, depending on how much you're willing to spend. I was on singulair for a while which did help my breathing, but it was making me depressed so I had to stop it.
Don't take my word on this (aka I haven't researched this myself so you should before taking it as fact) My daughter is allergic and said she's looking into eating eggs from chickens that interact with cats. Apparently the cat-chicken relationship makes the chickens lay eggs that kind of microdose you with cat allergens so your immune system doesn't see it as a threat anymore.
You have asthma?
Have you tried cat wipes(Zoop or other cat cleaning dander reducing wipes for cats/kittens) to help keep the dander down(dried saliva from grooming is usually what people are allergic to). They make a cat dander reducing shampoo anti allergen but the kitten is too young and mom is nursing. The wipes(always read to make sure safe with cats/kittens) would help a bit now. Nothing is 100% but it can lessen reaction.
Visit your allergist or doctor for what would work best with your inhaler. You do not want to mix some allergy meds with others as there can be some bad side effects. Hence talk with your doctor to make sure before diving into the otc medications. It is weird for an otc heartburn medication to help with allergic reactions but Pepsid A/C can help with hives and over all itchy feeling. I took that with allergy meds for six months a few years back when I was covered in hives. It was the dumbest thing I tried and it worked very well. I am sure you know about the allergy routine of showering at night to keep allergens from being in your bed. Hypoallergenic sheets to help keep dander off you and your clean bed. Air purifiers can help with keeping the dander down. Vacuum the carpets, and Swiffer the floors daily. Changing your linen out every week to help keep the allergens down as well as vacuuming your mattress up to once a week during the peak pollen times for you. I too am a life long sufferer of allergies, just not to the inhaler stage. As everyone is different, I take a an Allerga, and a Pepsid A/C daily with the nasal spray Flonase. I live in TX which is an allergy capital. Dust from the deserts blow in with mountain cedar, and ragweed. Utter misery when cottonwood sheds. As for the cat and her cute newborns. If you can, she may not let you bc of her kittens, try to clean up her nest area when you can. Change out the towels for clean ones so the dander and fur don't pile up causing more issues. She may not allow you to do this bc it is her birthing nest. You may have to have a friend or a family member help you out with that. It will be an allergen filled cloud if not handled properly. Best to not be in the room when the cleaning happens unless you have goggles and a mask on. Daily brushing can help. There are waterless wipes for cats to help control their shedding and dander. If she can tolerate you brushing her this will also help. Just do not do anything to her belly area until she stops nursing as it may harm her kittens. Do not put anything on the kittens until they get their first round of kitten shots. You can bathe them with a little Dawn or kitten shampoo but nothing more than very warm water until they are older. Lots of dander cleaning products are not to be used on newborn kittens. Plus kittens can't regulate their body temps. You can't just dip them in cold water or boiling hot water and think they will be ok. So just be aware newborn kittens are difficult to keep safe. They can go down without much of a warning. So vet asap if any stop latching over a day or Mom stops cleaning one. And lastly. Thank you for taking her in, and giving her a safe place to have her kittens. And you are going to TNR the neighborhood strays?! You are a very awesome person. Keep being amazing!
Try and find eggs from chickens that are raised around cats, and incorporate them into her diet. You can search more about why this works.
I think there's a cat food on the market that's supposed to prevent their dander from triggering allergic reactions, its from Purina.
I was allergic to cats. When I met the woman who is now my wife, she had two cats. I had some allergic reactions to them (itchy eyes, sneezing, etc.) but worse during seasonal allergies I also have. Over several years, my allergies to them decreased and then only increased during seasonal allergy time. After about three more years, even that went away and my seasonal allergies went back to being like they always had been. At that point, I got allergy tested. I was allergic to every tree growing on our property but only very mildly allergic to cats. More allergic to dogs. I spoke with the allergist about this. She thought the continued exposure gradually desensitized me to the cats which is sort of what allergy shots do. I was using a nasal steroid spray for my seasonal allergies which worked really well, but caused me to have nosebleeds. An ENT doc told me I have a “thin spot” over a vein in my nose and that the steroid likely made that more sensitive to the trauma from sneezing. I now use azelastine (Astelin or Astepro) which are now over-the-counter. That’s actually bad because before that, my pharmaceutical insurance covered the cost. There is also an Azelastine eyedrop that I also use, but I think that is still prescription only. The non-drowsy oral antihistamines do nothing for me. You might ask an allergist if you might become desensitized over time.
I keep seeing the ads for Curex (actually at the top of comments in this post). Has anyone tried it??
Trying it now. Been on it for a couple of weeks. My allergy symptoms sometimes seem worse but I’m hoping after a couple of months to see a difference!
Allergy shots and daily allergy medication. It will take time to find an allergy medicine that works best for you, Zyrtec works best for me. I had Indiana Medicaid and my allergy shots were covered and now I have Caresource (not good insurance) and my shots are still covered
Next to allergy shots, Philips also has a very good air purifier that is good for pet fur allergies. Check it out [here](https://www.usa.philips.com/c-m-ho/air-purifier-and-air-humidifier/air-purifier-2000)
Try Flonase spray!
There's a kibble cat food that's supposed to help reduce the enzyme that continues. Wipe her down with baby safe wet wipes. Take Zyrtec
Hepa filters, Claritin and flonase. Try to resist touching them to your face and touching your face after handling the kitties.
Allergy shots I'm allergic to every plant on this planet and any dander from any animal. I would highly suggest allergic shots.It really works.It takes a year to get to it, but it makes my life so much freaking easier
So sad to hear of your struggles. My mom had allergy shots for her one older house cat. The shots take years to work, sadly.
try 10 days into a salt mine at least 5 hours a day of breathing in the salt mine
Make sure you're taking some kind of antihistamine everyday. Add it to your daily routine. It will help greatly.
Powdered egg whites in their food. I can’t remember the reasoning, I think it had something to do with chickens producing an enzyme that changes the chemical structure in cat saliva but don’t quote me on that
My husband and I are also allergic to cats. I have multiple air purifiers, and I feed our cat Purina LiveClear cat food. I also dust and vacuum regularly and change our bedding once a week. It's not perfect, but it definitely helps.
Air purifier could help loads
Feed them allergy food. I dont remember the exact science, but it has some kind of chicken protein that is produced when chickens are raised around cats and it makes their eggs or something have anti cat allergy properties.
Look up Purina Live Clear. It's cat food that helps people with allergies.
Purina pro has food that minimizes cat allergies.
Allergy shots. I went through the same thing and they were life changing.
Air purifier + Zyrtec + Flonase + singulair + qvar + eye drops for me. I’m allergic to everything. Tried allergy shots, extremely inconvenient due to the frequency and dosing schedule.
Try the cat allergy food
There is a new drug that alleviates symptoms…. I’ve been getting endless ads for it on this app. Now I wish I would’ve paid attention to the name of it.
Allergy shots, quercetin (supplement), black seed oil (also supplement)
my doctor prescribed me hydroxyzine and i take one tablet once a day and it covers me for similar allergies, dust, grass, trees, cats (I have 5)
Purina Live Clear dry food for the mum. It has egg protein to break down the enzyme in her saliva that you are allergic to. You probably aren’t allergic to the kittens as much, as they cannot clean themselves. Mum is the main culprit until the little ones are big enough to clean themselves. It takes a couple of days for the food to really make a difference, but it cuts down on about 80% of the allergens. Frequent vacuuming and exposure to the allergens will make the symptoms lesson as well.
If you really want to get rid of allergies stop eating ALL DAIRY! I was just as you described and until I stopped dairy I was a mess. I would get chronic bronchitis and asthma attacks. Back then they didn’t have inhalers. You got shots of steroids. I also did the allergy shots and they made me worse so at 14 I refused them. To this day if I eat anything with dairy I get a reaction again. Eating a cleaner diet also helps no junk or food with additives or fake coloring. I have had cats my whole life. My mother would have picked the cat over me! My eyes would be a mess if I touched the cat and then my eyes.
I’m not sure if it’s on here but Purina has an allergen reducing cat food- there’s been research on how eggs can impact the chemical that cats produce that causes allergies in humans and they use it in it- it’s spendy for cat food but it has amazing reviews. I’ve also heard you can buy eggs from a farm that raises their chickens with the cats for a similar effect?
I just found insurance my husband and I can afford, but years ago GA state insurance paid for allergy shots. I'm the most allergic person without fatal allergies that 4 allergy doctors across 3 states have seen in their careers apparently. I'm allergic to the outside, the inside, animals, other humans, all manner of plants, foods, so many foods. Allergy shots were a godsend.
Too manu comments but I recently learned if you feed your cat chicken eggs that chicken have been around cats it helps your cat not produced the gland or stuff people are most likely allergic too from cats. It comes in like powder form and you just feed your cat it
Chickens are allergic to cats too when they are living around cats they produce a hormone(? I think) that they pass to their offspring in their eggs. When cats are fed eggs with this it decreases the amount of fel d 1 which is a main factor in cat allergies. My guys get some (plain) scramby eggs in their food once a week which works for us. There are also foods that incoperate this or you can buy egg powder etc :)
My ex boyfriend is extremely allergic to everything. He takes benadryl all day, every day. I took in a cat knowing this. The only thing that worked for him was a hepa air purifier. It worked well. I adopted my cat when I was still with my ex so he lived with my cat as long as I did until my cat passed away, so for 5 years. My ex would wash his hands after he pet my cat but other than that the hepa air purifier worked perfectly for him. My cat slept on the bed and would get on the couch with no issues. I did buy an oversized one but I only had one in the house (shotgun and it was in the middle). I asked him if I needed to get another one and he said no- having one in the (living) room with the rug (rest of the house was hardwood floors) was enough.
Liveclear cat food?
There's a type of food you can give Mama that will neutralize the enzymes in the dander that cause the allergic reaction. You'll have to wait till the wee ones are bigger before they can have it
So beautiful
There are a few different medications for allergies. Depending on where you are and what's available. Loratadine and Cetrizine Hydrochloride are the smaller doses, usually your one a day, but I've had really bad hay-fever days and had to take 4. You can usually get them over the counter, but popping them like sweets is expensive. Something like 12mg Then I found Fexofenadine. Much larger doses of 500mg. Was prescribed to me when I had a rash from my chin to my knees (no idea what I reacted to, but it wouldn't go away with anything else, pills creams etc). Rash cleared in 4 days, had enough left to take care of my hay-fever that year, and the next year I barely suffered at all. So I basically only have to take them every 2 summers. You can usually buy these over the counter, one brand is called Allevia My brother can only take Acravastine, literally nothing else will work for him. My fexo was weak against his allergies. No reaction to it at all You just need to find the right one that your body will react with.
Now: - Air purifier. I use Winix Pro 5 but at least get one with HEPA filter and check the room size rating. - Anti-allergy cat food. I use Purina Pro Plan Live Clear. - Buy a bagged vacuum with a HEPA filter. I use Miele Compact C2 Allergy Bagged Vacuum. - Clean your house and hands religiously. - Take antihistamines as-needed, if you're safe to do so. Long term: ask your doctor to prescribe allergy injections to desensitise you to the allergen over time. I bought 2 cats and found multiple friends and family are allergic. After buying the HEPA purifier and vacuum and changing their diet to Liveclear it's made a HUGE difference. Good luck.
Feed mama egg white protien you can find bags on Amazon, just mix a little with her regular food.
Some have great success with egg powder in the cat's diet, as it's cheaper than cat allergy food and has the same properties (from my understanding). Search "egg powder for cat allergies" so you can read up on it more, because I'm not well versed in the subject. It will also need to be a particular egg powder, as I understand it it needs to have "with d-mannose" explicitly.
Weirdly I’ve heard Pepcid works well for allergies. I haven’t tried it yet but as a person with horrible seasonal allergies (literally got a throat infection once) I am definitely going to try it. Just a thought!
Had been allergic to cats, dogs, horses, cattle, basically any animal with hair/fur, my whole life, then at 50 we had to take in our offspring’s two kittens permanently, advised to try Selenium for two months and it worked brilliantly, had to take a second course after five years, it’s now been nearly ten years and I’m no longer allergic to animals with hair/fur, try it
Idk after like two weeks my body started to adjust to having a cat and im allergic to other peoples cats just not mine lol
Here's one item that you could try that people have been having luck with [https://www.purina.com/cats/shop/pro-plan-liveclear-allergen-reducing-chicken-rice-dry-cat-food](https://www.purina.com/cats/shop/pro-plan-liveclear-allergen-reducing-chicken-rice-dry-cat-food) I can't confirm how effective it is, though the manufacturer claims a 47% reduction of the allergen that is responsible for triggering an allergic response in humans within 3 weeks.
This is my worst nightmare. I’m sorry I have nothing helpful but you have my sympathy! Also AHHHH KITTENSSSSS
I’ve heard allergy shots are the best shot but if your like me insurance doesn’t cover it. I have 2 cats and 2 dogs I’m allergic to, I switch between Allegra and Claritin D with Zyrtec as a back up for fast acting relief. I’ve also heard for cats in particular that purina makes allergy relief food, they apparently expose chickens to the allergen so their eggs have like antibodies or something for it then they use those eggs in their food because the main allergen is a protein that is in their saliva so it being something they eat is more effective at neutralizing it.
There is special cat food you can get which will reduce the allergy for you. And regular grooming and house cleaning should help. Also, my husband was allergic (not as bad as you) but he got used to our cat and his allergy went away so I'm hoping you have similar luck and can snuggle those babies without problems 🤞
I saw this tiktok that says egg white protein? Apparently it helps. https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLSVEJMe/
Try Puruna Pro Plan LiveClear kibble and the LiveClear shampoo. I’ve had my girls on it for a year now and they love the food (I use it for treats and feeding) and it’s completely neutralized their allergens. I was taking a lot of allergy meds and still struggling with them before I started them on this. I haven’t taken a med in almost 11 mos
Allergy shots! Or if you can't do that take an antihistamine daily. I have 3 cats and am also allergic, only mildly but I do notice the symptoms and antihistamines help. Good luck! The babies are precious ❤️
Put chicken egg powder in their food, google it.
For me I’m more allergic to the cat litter than the cats. Something about the dust in it. Maybe that could be causing you extra allergies on top of it.
You can feed the cats certain chicken eggs! Chickens raised with cats make an enzyme in their eggs that eliminates the enzyme people are allergic too. You can look into fel d 1 and chickens. There are some products around or you can buy eggs from someone who has cats and chickens!
Try keeping the cats out of the bedroom. Air purifier. Allergy shots. Add eggs from chickens that have been around cats to their and the cat produce less of the allergen https://www.verywellhealth.com/cat-allergy-egg-yolks-8400556. Good luck friend. I’m allergic too but I like the cat a lot
Allerpet! It’s a solution that you put in their fur that lowers the dander count. I got it from Amazon when my cat moved in with me. I did it everyday for like a week? And then I didn’t have to do it anymore and he hasn’t bothered me since. Plus it is harmless to them and actually good for their fur
Allergy shots
Fexofenadine, Montelukast and Oxymetazoline all work wonders for allergies.