Breathe Easy and Cuddle More: Managing Cat Allergies as a Cat Owner

For many cat lovers, the dream is endless cuddles with their feline companions. But for those with cat allergies, that dream can be interrupted by a symphony of sneezes, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.  Does this mean living a life devoid of purrs and playful paws? Not necessarily!

While there’s no single “cure” for cat allergies, there are ways to manage them and still enjoy the company of your furry friend. Here are 4 strategies to create a more allergy-friendly environment:

1. Bath Time for Your Cat (Done Right)

Regular baths can help remove allergens (Fel d 1 protein) from your cat’s fur and dander. However, frequent bathing can dry out your cat’s skin, so using a gentle, moisturising shampoo and conditioner is important. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate bathing frequency for your cat’s needs.

Recommendations: 

Lillidale Lazy Wash (200ml)

Lillidale Lazy Wash is designed for those busy moments when you need a quick and effective cleaning solution. Our unique formula is enriched with soothing aloe vera, moisturizing provitamin B5, and hydrolyzed wheat protein.

OOMMI Hypoallergenic Pet Shampoo (500ml)

Oommi Probiotics Hypoallergenic Pet Shampoo is formulated from a powerful blend of live beneficial microbes, cultured using advanced Japanese technology. It is super gentle on your pet’s sensitive skin and prevents fungal & skin infections, excessive shedding, itching, dryness and bugs.

2. Minimise Cat Shedding

A key contributor to cat allergies is shed fur. Here are two ways to reduce shedding:

• Diet Matters: A high-quality diet rich in essential fatty acids can promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding. Talk to your vet about finding the right food for your cat.
• Regular Brushing: Brushing your cat regularly removes loose fur before it can spread around your home. This is a fantastic way to bond with your cat while minimizing allergens in the air.

3. Wash Your Hands and Avoid Touching Sensitive Areas

This might seem like a no-brainer, but washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water after petting your cat or cleaning their litter box is important. This simple step helps prevent allergens from transferring to your face and triggering allergy symptoms.

4. Try Allergen-Reducing Cat Food

Did you know that a special diet can actually reduce allergens in your cat’s fur and dander? PRO PLAN® LIVECLEAR™ Allergen-Reducing Cat Food by Purina is a revolutionary product that neutralises Fel d 1 protein in cats, demonstrably reducing allergens by 47%.

This innovative food can significantly improve the lives of both cat owners and their allergy-prone companions.

The good news is, PRO PLAN® LIVECLEAR™ is now available on ZumShop! Head over to our shop today to learn more and find the right food for your feline friend.

By combining these strategies and exploring options like PRO PLAN® LIVECLEAR™, you can create a more allergy-friendly environment and enjoy a closer bond with your feline companion.

Remember:

• Consult your veterinarian before implementing any new strategies, especially regarding diet changes.
• Consistency is key! Regular bathing, brushing, and handwashing will have a greater impact on reducing allergens than occasional efforts.

With a little planning and the right tools, you and your cat can enjoy a happy and healthy life together, even if you have allergies!

💡  Have more questions about your cat’s health? Be a ZumVet Pro member to get unlimited teleconsults and save over $1,000 in vet bills. Learn more here.