Cat lovers want to be around and play with their pets as much as possible. However, some experience challenging allergies. From itchiness and red skin to swelling, watery eyes, and uncontrollable sneezing. No matter the effects, it is essential to identify the symptoms and look for ways how to get rid of cat allergies naturally.
Most often than not, our initial response is to seek fast relief by purchasing over-the-counter medications to get over cat allergies.
However, it is better to seek out natural remedies for cat allergies in humans. Medications can manage the allergies for a while, but we shouldn’t be dependent on them for the long haul.
Natural Cures for Cat Allergies
Below are some suggested natural cat allergy remedies that you can try which can work for you.
1. Humidifiers
A lot of people swear by the effectiveness of these. Even sinus experts claim when there is moisture in the air, the vapor can calm irritated airways and allow you to breathe easily. There are several essential oils that you can choose from for your humidifier.
Similar to hitting two birds with one stone, a humidifier is not only a natural treatment that helps you treat allergic reactions but provides a wonderful scent to your home as well.
2. Salt-water Rinses
Using a small container with a long spout (e.g. Neti pot), you can rinse your nasal cavities by mixing a solution of 1/8 teaspoon salt into distilled water.
3. Acupuncture
This is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in which thin needles are inserted into the body. From TCMs’ view, allergy blocks the defensive Qi flow in the body, and so the needles help clear out the passageways in the mucous membranes, lung, and skin areas.
4. Homeopathic Remedies
A pseudoscientific system of alternative medicine, these remedies usually use natural substances like plants and minerals. Homeopathic remedies for cat allergies include Spirulina, Vitamin C, Honey, Quercetin, Probiotics, Bromelain, and Butterbur.
These are considered natural antihistamines but can possibly take time to develop in your systems.
Other over-the-counter medications may provide fast relief from symptoms but can come with undesirable side effects. The choice still lies with you if you opt for these medications.
5. Wash after handling or playing with your cat
While there is no permanent cure to get rid of allergies from pets, it is important you are mindful not further spread allergens or dander that may have been left on your hands, hair, or clothes. If possible, take a shower or at least wash your hands right away and change your clothes.
6. Environment Management
The easiest and safest approach to how to help (heal) cat allergies naturally is to clean the house or environment regularly. Cleaning is necessary to prevent the buildup of allergens. While it may not be a favorite chore of some, this is one of the best ways to ease allergen discomforts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For some, it may come off as a surprise that while an individual has cats in their home, they continue to tolerate the discomfort of allergies out of love for their pets.
To avoid or at least minimize the possibility of acquiring allergies, you may want to take a look at these answers to typical questions that you will find useful.
How often should cleaning be done to prevent the spread of allergens?
It is a must to clean the house regularly, especially where the pet usually stays. A vacuum cleaner is the most efficient way of gathering allergens as it takes little effort to do so.
Additionally, wiping surfaces with a damp rag helps dander gather and stick easily, preventing them from spreading to other surfaces.
Will grooming the cat help control the spread of allergens?
Brushing and washing your pet cat outside the house will help control the spread. If, however, you do not have time to do this, you can bring your pet to professional groomers.
Do carpets and fabrics contribute to allergen build-up?
Carpets and other fabrics are fur magnets. The hair or saliva of cats stays in these such that allergens stay. It is recommended to focus on a fur-free environment for your home. Having tiles or wood flooring is ideal if you have fur friends.
Conclusion
It is said that feline friends are stress-relievers for people, making them great companions to soothe feelings of loneliness. However, about three in 10 people do experience allergic reactions to them.
There are various ways to treat or minimize the adverse effects of these allergic reactions. These may not remove them permanently, but they offer relief.
Some people even go to Reddit to search for fast and creative solutions addressing their allergies.
Oral and topical medications are always available, but you may want to know how to get rid of cat allergies naturally to avoid side effects. Therefore, doing any of these tips can provide relief to allergic patients and thus, enjoy having the company of pets.
I am Amy Sawy, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduate from the University of Kansas. y husband, Dr. Plummer, and I own a veterinary clinic in Phillipsburg, Kansas. In addition to my professional background, I am a devoted pet owner myself, with a household that includes dogs, rodents, and most notably, cats – a total of five felines in my home.
In 2020, I joined an organization as a professional writer, leveraging my experience and collaborating with my team to deliver the most valuable information for your cat’s care.
