Controlling Cat Dander

Cats shed dead skin cells, also called dander, throughout their lives. These skin cells contain an allergen called "Fel d 1," found in cat saliva and sebaceous glands, according to the Auckland Allergy Clinic. When cats groom themselves they deposit the allergen onto their skin. Microscopic particles of cat dander become airborne and attach to furniture, walls and carpeting. For those with an allergy to cats, this protein causes a reaction that can result in sneezing, itchy eyes or hives. Groom your cat and clean your home of cat dander to reduce allergies and control your allergies.

Things You'll Need

  • Fine-tooth cat comb
  • Cat allergy shampoo
  • Towel
  • Hair Dryer
  • Baby brush
  • Allergy spray
  • Vacuum with HEPA filter
  • Disposable electrostatic cloths
  • HEPA air purifier
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush your cat with a fine-tooth comb daily to remove loose hair and dander. This prevents the dander from getting on any surfaces in your home. If possible take your cat outside to brush it. This prevents any microscopic dander flakes from becoming airborne in your home.

    • 2

      Bathe your cat weekly to wash away dander and allergens from its skin and coat. Use cat shampoo specially formulated to reduce allergens. Place your cat in a bathtub or kitchen sink and lather its coat using warm water. Concentrate on washing the base of the tail, as this is where the sebaceous gland is located, according to Pure Cat Breed Rescue. Rinse the cat thoroughly and dry it with a towel or hair dryer. Brush its coat with a baby brush to remove any remaining dander particles and loose fur.

    • 3

      Vacuum your home weekly to remove dander particles from carpeting and upholstery. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to prevent the microscopic dander particles from becoming airborne. This type of vacuum reduces allergens 90 percent more than a standard one, according to the Auckland Allergy Clinic. Reach into the crevices of furniture with the vacuum's attachments as well.

    • 4

      Wipe down your furniture with a damp electrostatic cloth with one part water, one part vinegar to remove any dander particles. Use disposable cloths to eliminate the allergens from your home by throwing them away. In addition to furniture, wipe down walls, objects and other surfaces. Do this weekly to prevent allergens from building up in your home.

    • 5

      Wash draperies and slipcovers in an allergen-reducing laundry detergent. If you're unable to wash them, spray them down with an allergen-reducing spray. This can be done on any surface in your home with this type of spray, which neutralizes the allergens in pet dander, breaking them down and reducing allergy symptoms.

    • 6

      Run a HEPA air purifier in your home to reduce the amount of airborne dander. Change its filters monthly to increase the effectiveness of the machine and prevent dander particles from getting attached to surfaces in your home.