$Unique_ID{BRK01864} $Pretitle{} $Title{Allergies to Pets} $Subject{allergy allergies allergic medicine medicines prescription drug drugs tip tips advice advise help pet pets cat cats dog dogs allergen allergens dander fur furry carpet rug rugs furniture house home room rooms pet-care care environment} $Volume{} $Log{ Histamine Release Causes Allergy Symptoms*0001202.scf The Process of an Allergic Reaction*0001201.scf} Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Allergies to Pets ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ QUESTION: Can you please help me? I suppose I have known this for some time, but it looks as if I am allergic to my cat, my loving companion for many years. I can't think of not having him around, for he is a part of my life. What medicines can you provide me to help overcome my problem? I desperately need your help. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANSWER: I am sorry I can't "provide" you with medications, though many of the letters from other readers also ask for this kind of help. Only your own physician is in a position to help you in this way, for it takes a careful history and physical to provide the information necessary to make the correct decision about prescription medications. And it may well be that you should visit your doctor for help with your problem. However, let me provide you with some advice that may help. Of course the logical answer is to seek another good home for your pet, but you have made it clear that you are not of a mind to consider that advice. So let's consider the source of your allergic discomfort. It comes from allergens, protein material that is contained in the saliva and skin glands (sebaceous glands) of your cat. When these secretions dry, and your cat preens himself, these particles of protein can be swept from his body, fly through the air, and cause your allergy to kick in. In addition the allergens can settle in the carpet and furniture in your home. And the carpet can become the biggest reservoir of these allergens. So if you don't want to lose the cat, get rid of the carpets. In addition you can reduce the amount of cat allergens that surround you by bathing your cat on a weekly basis. It is a good idea to wear a surgical face mask while washing or brushing your pet. Use a high powered vacuum cleaner with a high efficiency filter to remove as much as you can from furniture or other fabric components in your home. Use a room air cleaner, and try to keep the cat out of your bedroom, which can afford you a refuge when your allergies become a problem. These tips may be just enough to allow both you and your pet share the same lodgings. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.