* Managing the Allergy: You'll need to find ways to manage your allergies effectively. This could involve:
* Medication: Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and immunotherapy can help control symptoms.
* Special Practices: Wearing a mask, gloves, and protective clothing while examining cats.
* Limited Exposure: You might choose to focus on other animal species and avoid direct contact with cats as much as possible.
* Consider Other Animal Specialties: Focus on areas like large animal practice, exotics, or even avian medicine.
* Emotional Impact: It's important to consider the emotional toll of working with animals you're allergic to. You might find it stressful or difficult to handle cats, even with precautions.
* Job Opportunities: Some employers might be hesitant to hire someone with a severe allergy to cats, as it could potentially impact their work.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. You'll need to weigh the challenges against your passion for veterinary medicine and your ability to manage your allergy. If you're serious about becoming a vet, consider talking to a doctor, an allergist, and veterinarians who specialize in cat care to get a better understanding of your options.