How to Cure Cat Dander

Humans and animals produce dander, which comes from dead skin cells. Cat dander is tinier than dust mites and can become airborne; it is not "dandruff." It may be an allergen for some people, due to the protein from the saliva of the cat and its sebaceous glands that gets deposited on its fur. Dander may stick to all kinds of surfaces including fabric, wood and walls. It is impossible to "cure" cat dander but there are ways to remove it.

Things You'll Need

  • HEPA filtered air purifier
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Washing machine
  • Mild detergent
  • Soft-bristled brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Vacuum with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner. It is designed to help remove allergens, of which dander can be one. Vacuum everything from curtains to floors. Furniture will need to be vacuumed and especially carpets. Cat dander will sit on the threads of the carpet and make it difficult to get rid of without vacuuming daily.

    • 2

      Wash all fabrics, including clothes, bedding, and curtains. If you cannot wash your curtains, then steam-clean or vacuum them. Wash your clothes and bedding weekly. Cat bedding and rugs will need to be washed in warm to hot water with mild detergent weekly as well.

    • 3

      Wipe down the walls with a damp cloth once a month. Removing cat dander also includes keeping the walls clean, particularly around where the cat sleeps.

    • 4

      Brush your cat outside the home. Using a soft-bristled brush, your cat's hair will need to be brushed daily to remove as much dander as possible and prevent it from flying around your home. Bathe your cat once a month to help eliminate some dander.

    • 5

      Place an air purifier in your home. Look for one with a HEPA filter to eliminate as many allergens in the air as possible. You can place it in the room that the cat spends most of its time.