Spray for Cat Allergies

Allergies, depending on their causes and severity, can be life-threatening or just a very big annoyance. Unfortunately for animal lovers, some of the most common types of allergies are to a certain kind of pet. Some people are allergic to many species of animals, while others may be afflicted with allergies limited to only dogs or cats. Myriad products on the market are touted as beneficial to cat lovers with allergies, among them various sprays.

  1. Causes

    • Many people blame their allergies on cat hair--after all, many breeds of cat are quite furry, and when they shed, that fur tends to fly. In addition, dust or pollen can sometimes collect on a cat's fur. However, allergic reactions to cats are more likely caused by a reaction to the animal's dander, or skin flakes. Saliva and urine are also common allergens.

    Spray Solutions

    • One way to help alleviate your cat allergy symptoms is by using sprays. There are two types of sprays. The allergy sufferer can use nasal spray, much like nasal sprays for cold and sinus relief. And sprays available for the home which may diminish the presence of cat dander. Fewer allergens means fewer allergy symptoms.

    Nasal Spray

    • Corticosteroid sprays, such as Flonase or Nasonex, reduce the inflammation caused by allergens like cat dander. They help relieve the sneezing and runny or stuffy noses associated with allergies. Most allergy sufferers apply these sprays once or twice daily, but Flonase, for one, also has been shown to be effective if used only as needed. The downside to using a nasal spray to deal with your cat allergy is that it primarily will affect only the symptoms associated with the nose. You probably will need to find another way to deal with your itchy, watery eyes or breathing troubles.

    Household Spray

    • You can use the anti-allergy household sprays all over your home, on carpets, bedding, upholstered furniture and draperies. They work by destroying the allergens in the cat dander, but they also are designed to eliminate dust, mildew, pollen and other causes of allergic reactions. You apply most of these sprays directly onto the surface to be treated and then vacuum when dry.

    Other Solutions

    • Though a nasal or household spray may greatly reduce the symptoms of your cat allergies, you can take other steps to boost their effectiveness. Bathe and brush your cat regularly to keep the amount of dander at a low level. Vacuum frequently, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. Keep your cat off the furniture and wash your hands after petting or playing with her. If you visit homes in which cats are present, taking an antihistamine before you arrive can help keep symptoms at bay.