How to Deal With Skin Problems From Cat Allergies
Posted on: 22 January 2021
If you're a big animal lover, one of the worst afflictions you can suffer from is a pet allergy. In particular, many cat owners find they suffer uncomfortable symptoms after petting or playing with their furbaby. Cats can produce high levels of allergens, which can be transmitted through the air as well as through physical contact, making allergies difficult to address if you have a kitty in the home. However, that doesn't mean you need to rehome your beloved furry friend if you're suffering from uncomfortable skin symptoms like itching and rashes. Follow these three tips, and you should see a marked improvement.
1. Bathe your cat
Cats may have a reputation for hating water, but bathing them regularly is one of the best ways to reduce your skin issues. Bathing your cat removes the allergen deposits on their fur, reducing your exposure to them. Bathing too often can actually cause overproduction of allergens, but a weekly bath is a great middle ground. Don't worry about traumatising your cat—most can get used to the process if you gradually introduce them to water. If your cat is one of the few that completely refuses to take a bath, you can also remove some of the allergens by wiping them down with a baby-safe wet wipe every week.
2. Keep areas off-limits
Another, easier way to help you reduce your cat allergy skin symptoms is to keep your cat out of certain areas. The less contact your cat has with your most-used furnishings, the lower your exposure to allergens. You may love sleeping with your cat, but keeping them out of the bedroom can go a long way in alleviating your itchiness and rashes. After all, you spend a third of your life sleeping. You may also want to keep your cat out of any areas with soft furnishings and carpets, as these can hold allergens and transmit them to you long after your cat has wandered off.
3. See an immunologist
While changing you and your cat's lifestyle can go a long way in reducing skin issues, nothing beats the help of a professional like an immunologist. Immunologists are trained in allergies and can help you determine the best course of treatment to reduce your symptoms. For many, this includes creams and lotions that soothe the skin. You may also be offered regular allergy shots to keep your overall body protected against cat dander. This is known as immunotherapy and is one of the most effective treatments against allergy-related dermatology problems, making it ideal for those who have exhausted all other options.
Contact a company like Darwin Dermatology to get more information.
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