Question:
I have an Alpine Filter and it helps tremendously. I was the glass plates and the filter in it monthly and there is never anything to replace. It takes odors out of the air and everything! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit 
’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL ^4.128.44.7!wbnws01.ne.mediaone.net.POSTED!not-for-mail Xref: news.jps.net rec.pets.cats.health+behav:12113 Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
Here is the link to the allerpet website. http://www.allerpet.com/ Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Oh! This is too bad, Rachel. Someone posted about a product called Allerpet. I am not familiar with it as I don’t have allergies, but I think that is right – I only glanced at the post, sorry. Good luck. I am sure you will find a way to deal with this. But until then…… Well I’m going to consider making an appointment with my allergist realy soon, I have allergy drops by they are over the counter stuff and I’m not so sure they work, although they help, they burn to use at first, and it’s miserable when I don’t use them. I might have to get reactine for a while until I can solve this, but that’s a very expensive solution to a problem, I think it’s like 12$ a box of 12. Pounce eats up any spare spending money I have and I rather spend it on him than on medication for my allergies. And at any rate, if Pounce passes away, it will lighten my budget a little, but I will still have Cleo for a while yet, she’s old but she’s not that old, and Cleo seems to be the cat that has given me the most grief for my allergies. (She’s lying beside me now, I’m not reacting yet, maybe it’s prolonged exposure or something…) And maybe as well, it’s because I touched the cat then touched my eyes, dad seems to be teh same way, if he uses his hand to push Cleo away then puts his hands in his face, he has the same awful reaction to her. Well I just thought I’d ask, I’m sure there are very allergic cat lovers here who have possible solutions. Unfortunately this type of allergy is unbearable, I can cope with a runny nose (which happens all the time anyways from other allergies) but I cannot take itchy, swollen, red eyes. Thanks, Rachel — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
If you are allergic to cats, the last room they should be in is your bedroom. Keep them out ! Since you spend many (consecutive) hours in a bedroom, it is best if this room is your one allergy-free sanctuary in the house. You should also encapsulate your mattress and pillow cases in the special plastic covers made for them. This is good for dust mites and airborne cat allergen. Do you have carpet or hardwood floors? Hardwood floors are much better for allergies, especially in the bedroom. If your cats will tolerate it, it’s good to bathe them once a week…it removes some of the Fel d 1 from their coats. An article I read from a vet also said that wiping them down with a damp cloth made from 1 part fabric softener and at least 4 parts water is good (let them dry naturally). Try using a fabric softener with less fragrance…fragrance is not bad for a cat…but may annoy some of them. If your house is very dry, a humidifier is good. Unfortunately, cats get more allergenic as they get older because their skin gets dry and therefore secretes more (allergen laden) sebum. Sometimes certain premium foods can help with their skin. Good luck !
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – *maybe* (hopefully) your cats have been exposed to something else you are allergic to? I know that people can develop allergies, but they usually "build up". Have they eaten anything different or do they go outside? Have you checked with your doctor? Allergy tests can be a right pain in the butt, however you might be able to just be tested for a cat allergy and at least then you’d know one way or the other. Good luck!!!! I’ve had allergy tests before, tey aren’t nice, but I don’t mind. When you have had to have the worst tests done, you start to think allergy tests and whatnot are no big deal, I prefer allergy tests to drawing several little tubes of blood (gotta love those CBCs and creatine tests). The cats never go out, it’s way too cold for kitties out here… I hope neighbourhood cow cat hasn’t been around because she is indoors staying warm and has not died from the cold (yes it’s been that bad). I have many allergies, dust for one, but I have never been affected in the eyes from dust, only from cat hair and dander. If my cats sleep on my pillow while I"m home (pounce doesn’t leave much fur so you can’t tell he’s been there on a dark patterned pillow) and I lie down, my eyes swell up, I just change the pillowcase and I know he’s been there. I thought maybe the way the cats have been shedding and stuff, and coming close my allergy has gotten worse because I never reacted to them just ‘being around’ before. I have a definite cat allergy, my allergist told me a few years ago to give up the cats if I could find a home, but because I wasn’t bothered by them enough, I didn’t even look into that option. Plus getting rid of cats doesn’t solve my severe allergy problems, my biggest problem is dust, I clean up more with cats around and if they weren’t around, I might not be as likely to clean the dust off all the surfaces in my house. (Ditto with vacuuming several times a week). — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
And maybe as well, it’s because I touched the cat then touched my eyes,
I’ll bet money that this is why your eyes are swollen and itchy. I have made the mistake a few times of petting my cats and then itching my eyes, and the result is that my eyes have swollen nearly shut. It usually takes a few days for the swelling to go down.If you feel a need to touch your eyes, and have been petting your cats, wash your hands first, and I doubt you’ll have this problem again. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Zuzu’s cat album: http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumList?u=244574&Auth=false
Response:
Oh! This is too bad, Rachel. Someone posted about a product called Allerpet. I am not familiar with it as I don’t have allergies, but I think that is right – I only glanced at the post, sorry. Good luck. I am sure you will find a way to deal with this. But until then…… Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
I’ve had allergy tests before, tey aren’t nice, but I don’t mind. When you have had to have the worst tests done, you start to think allergy tests and whatnot are no big deal, I prefer allergy tests to drawing several little tubes of blood (gotta love those CBCs and creatine tests).
If ya really want a fun test, get a cervical biopsy! Ow ow ouch! Or cervical needles (’scuse me while I chuck over the very memory). I’m afraid I’m at a loss now over your allergy problem. Best wishes, my dear, you belong with cats. :-( Take care. — Peace freedom & justice Deanna
Response:
I have a definite cat allergy, my allergist told me a few years ago to give up the cats if I could find a home, but because I wasn’t bothered by them enough, I didn’t even look into that option. Plus getting rid of cats doesn’t solve my severe allergy problems, my biggest problem is dust, I clean up more with cats around and if they weren’t around, I might not be as likely to clean the dust off all the surfaces in my house. (Ditto with vacuuming several times a week).
I’ve got a wide range of allergies. Some of them are readily avoidable (feathers, which is a weird one, as I’ve never really been exposed to them), to mold (less avoidable, but moving from Massachusetts to Minnesota this summer made this fall – usually my worst time – much easier, due to the earlier frost and less lingering dampness) and dust. And cats and dogs and horses. (Dogs more than horses, horses more than cats…) I’ve also got allergy induced asthma. Most of the time, my allergies are pretty readily under control. My lungs have problems if I do something really stupid, or unless the environmental allergens get out of hand. If you’ve already got an allergist, you’ve probably heard most of these recommendations before, but the major thing that helps me is having an air filter in my bedroom. The one I have was under $100, does a 12×12 foot room, I hink, and needs minimal maintainance (changing the carbon filter every 3 months, and the HEPA filter every year or so.) Mine’s reasonably quiet, even running on high, though it’s taken my SO (who’s long distance) a day or two to get used to it when he visits. It’s good white noise, anyway. It’s quieter than the air conditioner, and about the same level as a high-end fan. It helps a lot with both dust *and* cat hair. One of the ways I remembered to change the filter was that my bedroom started gaining a light layer of dust, and it hadn’t for 3 months and more. If you get one, you want one with HEPA filtering, and it should tell you some stuff about how many allergens it blocks and down to what size. Climate control can also help a lot with dustmites (the real cause for most dust allergies) – I keep my apartment cool and dry, which they dislike. (By cool, I mean a hint above ‘too cool to be naked comfortably in for long but cool enough that bare feet are an edge cool sometimes’ – I don’t have a thermostat with a number in here, but I’d guess it’s around 63-65. Below 65 starts getting you dust mite benefits, I believe.) Washing bedding in very hot water regularly (every week or two weeks) can also *really* help. I don’t do this, because I’m in an apartment, and the work load to get them washed and brought back and put on isn’t a great use of time for me right now (as the allergies aren’t that bad) but it’s an excellent way to control allergens, if you have the filter to pick up the ones tossed into the air when you change the sheets. My cat is shorthaired (generic tabby, though I think she’s got some siamese in her based on shape, voice, and attitudes), and she doesn’t sleep on the pillows I use (she sometimes sleeps on a large square one also on the bed) or near the head of the bed all that often (she prefers the feet or elsewhere in the apartment) I take allergy medicine (Claritin) every so often (about every week, now), most often when I know I’m going to be at the house of friends who have cats (and who may not have households designed to head off dustmites or have more cats, so the allergen levels are higher). Talking to your doctor will probably get you the "You should get rid of the cats" lecture (my doctor gives it to me fairly regularly, but I find my lung function is about where it was pre-cat, and my stress levels are *far* better.) You might talk about the fact that your symptoms have changed, talk about reasonable fixes (like an air filter, washing sheets more often, controlling how the cats lie on your bed, trying things like Allerpet, etc). The other thing to be *really* careful of is the chance of developing allergy induced asthma. No one’s quite sure what triggers it, but asthma *is* a deadly disease. If you discover you have problems breathing, you should take strong action (going to your doctor or the emergency room as needed, depending how bad it is.) My asthma’s more of the ’slow build’ version, where I’ll build up to having real problems, so Ihave a few days to do somethign to take care of it, but most asthma medications have icky side effects in one way or another, they mess with your body and how it works in some very subtle ways, and they’re not much fun if you can avoid them by other measures. However, many people have much more rapid onset asthma, and it can be very easy to say "I’ll be fine in 5 minutes – only then you aren’t. I hope some of this helps – so far (4 months) I’ve been very happy with my cat, and my allergies have been fine, but it’s something I keep a careful eye on. -Gwynyth
Response:
I have an Alpine Filter and it helps tremendously. I was the glass plates and the filter in it monthly and there is never anything to replace. It takes odors out of the air and everything! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL ^4.128.44.7!wbnws01.ne.mediaone.net.POSTED!not-for-mail Xref: news.jps.net rec.pets.cats.health+behav:12113 Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
Here is the link to the allerpet website. http://www.allerpet.com/ Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Oh! This is too bad, Rachel. Someone posted about a product called Allerpet. I am not familiar with it as I don’t have allergies, but I think that is right – I only glanced at the post, sorry. Good luck. I am sure you will find a way to deal with this. But until then…… Well I’m going to consider making an appointment with my allergist realy soon, I have allergy drops by they are over the counter stuff and I’m not so sure they work, although they help, they burn to use at first, and it’s miserable when I don’t use them. I might have to get reactine for a while until I can solve this, but that’s a very expensive solution to a problem, I think it’s like 12$ a box of 12. Pounce eats up any spare spending money I have and I rather spend it on him than on medication for my allergies. And at any rate, if Pounce passes away, it will lighten my budget a little, but I will still have Cleo for a while yet, she’s old but she’s not that old, and Cleo seems to be the cat that has given me the most grief for my allergies. (She’s lying beside me now, I’m not reacting yet, maybe it’s prolonged exposure or something…) And maybe as well, it’s because I touched the cat then touched my eyes, dad seems to be teh same way, if he uses his hand to push Cleo away then puts his hands in his face, he has the same awful reaction to her. Well I just thought I’d ask, I’m sure there are very allergic cat lovers here who have possible solutions. Unfortunately this type of allergy is unbearable, I can cope with a runny nose (which happens all the time anyways from other allergies) but I cannot take itchy, swollen, red eyes. Thanks, Rachel — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
If you are allergic to cats, the last room they should be in is your bedroom. Keep them out ! Since you spend many (consecutive) hours in a bedroom, it is best if this room is your one allergy-free sanctuary in the house. You should also encapsulate your mattress and pillow cases in the special plastic covers made for them. This is good for dust mites and airborne cat allergen. Do you have carpet or hardwood floors? Hardwood floors are much better for allergies, especially in the bedroom. If your cats will tolerate it, it’s good to bathe them once a week…it removes some of the Fel d 1 from their coats. An article I read from a vet also said that wiping them down with a damp cloth made from 1 part fabric softener and at least 4 parts water is good (let them dry naturally). Try using a fabric softener with less fragrance…fragrance is not bad for a cat…but may annoy some of them. If your house is very dry, a humidifier is good. Unfortunately, cats get more allergenic as they get older because their skin gets dry and therefore secretes more (allergen laden) sebum. Sometimes certain premium foods can help with their skin. Good luck !
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – *maybe* (hopefully) your cats have been exposed to something else you are allergic to? I know that people can develop allergies, but they usually "build up". Have they eaten anything different or do they go outside? Have you checked with your doctor? Allergy tests can be a right pain in the butt, however you might be able to just be tested for a cat allergy and at least then you’d know one way or the other. Good luck!!!! I’ve had allergy tests before, tey aren’t nice, but I don’t mind. When you have had to have the worst tests done, you start to think allergy tests and whatnot are no big deal, I prefer allergy tests to drawing several little tubes of blood (gotta love those CBCs and creatine tests). The cats never go out, it’s way too cold for kitties out here… I hope neighbourhood cow cat hasn’t been around because she is indoors staying warm and has not died from the cold (yes it’s been that bad). I have many allergies, dust for one, but I have never been affected in the eyes from dust, only from cat hair and dander. If my cats sleep on my pillow while I"m home (pounce doesn’t leave much fur so you can’t tell he’s been there on a dark patterned pillow) and I lie down, my eyes swell up, I just change the pillowcase and I know he’s been there. I thought maybe the way the cats have been shedding and stuff, and coming close my allergy has gotten worse because I never reacted to them just ‘being around’ before. I have a definite cat allergy, my allergist told me a few years ago to give up the cats if I could find a home, but because I wasn’t bothered by them enough, I didn’t even look into that option. Plus getting rid of cats doesn’t solve my severe allergy problems, my biggest problem is dust, I clean up more with cats around and if they weren’t around, I might not be as likely to clean the dust off all the surfaces in my house. (Ditto with vacuuming several times a week). — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
Response:
And maybe as well, it’s because I touched the cat then touched my eyes,
I’ll bet money that this is why your eyes are swollen and itchy. I have made the mistake a few times of petting my cats and then itching my eyes, and the result is that my eyes have swollen nearly shut. It usually takes a few days for the swelling to go down.If you feel a need to touch your eyes, and have been petting your cats, wash your hands first, and I doubt you’ll have this problem again. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Zuzu’s cat album: http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumList?u=244574&Auth=false
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Oh! This is too bad, Rachel. Someone posted about a product called Allerpet. I am not familiar with it as I don’t have allergies, but I think that is right – I only glanced at the post, sorry. Good luck. I am sure you will find a way to deal with this. But until then…… Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
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I’ve had allergy tests before, tey aren’t nice, but I don’t mind. When you have had to have the worst tests done, you start to think allergy tests and whatnot are no big deal, I prefer allergy tests to drawing several little tubes of blood (gotta love those CBCs and creatine tests).
If ya really want a fun test, get a cervical biopsy! Ow ow ouch! Or cervical needles (’scuse me while I chuck over the very memory). I’m afraid I’m at a loss now over your allergy problem. Best wishes, my dear, you belong with cats. :-( Take care. — Peace freedom & justice Deanna
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I have a definite cat allergy, my allergist told me a few years ago to give up the cats if I could find a home, but because I wasn’t bothered by them enough, I didn’t even look into that option. Plus getting rid of cats doesn’t solve my severe allergy problems, my biggest problem is dust, I clean up more with cats around and if they weren’t around, I might not be as likely to clean the dust off all the surfaces in my house. (Ditto with vacuuming several times a week).
I’ve got a wide range of allergies. Some of them are readily avoidable (feathers, which is a weird one, as I’ve never really been exposed to them), to mold (less avoidable, but moving from Massachusetts to Minnesota this summer made this fall – usually my worst time – much easier, due to the earlier frost and less lingering dampness) and dust. And cats and dogs and horses. (Dogs more than horses, horses more than cats…) I’ve also got allergy induced asthma. Most of the time, my allergies are pretty readily under control. My lungs have problems if I do something really stupid, or unless the environmental allergens get out of hand. If you’ve already got an allergist, you’ve probably heard most of these recommendations before, but the major thing that helps me is having an air filter in my bedroom. The one I have was under $100, does a 12×12 foot room, I hink, and needs minimal maintainance (changing the carbon filter every 3 months, and the HEPA filter every year or so.) Mine’s reasonably quiet, even running on high, though it’s taken my SO (who’s long distance) a day or two to get used to it when he visits. It’s good white noise, anyway. It’s quieter than the air conditioner, and about the same level as a high-end fan. It helps a lot with both dust *and* cat hair. One of the ways I remembered to change the filter was that my bedroom started gaining a light layer of dust, and it hadn’t for 3 months and more. If you get one, you want one with HEPA filtering, and it should tell you some stuff about how many allergens it blocks and down to what size. Climate control can also help a lot with dustmites (the real cause for most dust allergies) – I keep my apartment cool and dry, which they dislike. (By cool, I mean a hint above ‘too cool to be naked comfortably in for long but cool enough that bare feet are an edge cool sometimes’ – I don’t have a thermostat with a number in here, but I’d guess it’s around 63-65. Below 65 starts getting you dust mite benefits, I believe.) Washing bedding in very hot water regularly (every week or two weeks) can also *really* help. I don’t do this, because I’m in an apartment, and the work load to get them washed and brought back and put on isn’t a great use of time for me right now (as the allergies aren’t that bad) but it’s an excellent way to control allergens, if you have the filter to pick up the ones tossed into the air when you change the sheets. My cat is shorthaired (generic tabby, though I think she’s got some siamese in her based on shape, voice, and attitudes), and she doesn’t sleep on the pillows I use (she sometimes sleeps on a large square one also on the bed) or near the head of the bed all that often (she prefers the feet or elsewhere in the apartment) I take allergy medicine (Claritin) every so often (about every week, now), most often when I know I’m going to be at the house of friends who have cats (and who may not have households designed to head off dustmites or have more cats, so the allergen levels are higher). Talking to your doctor will probably get you the "You should get rid of the cats" lecture (my doctor gives it to me fairly regularly, but I find my lung function is about where it was pre-cat, and my stress levels are *far* better.) You might talk about the fact that your symptoms have changed, talk about reasonable fixes (like an air filter, washing sheets more often, controlling how the cats lie on your bed, trying things like Allerpet, etc). The other thing to be *really* careful of is the chance of developing allergy induced asthma. No one’s quite sure what triggers it, but asthma *is* a deadly disease. If you discover you have problems breathing, you should take strong action (going to your doctor or the emergency room as needed, depending how bad it is.) My asthma’s more of the ’slow build’ version, where I’ll build up to having real problems, so Ihave a few days to do somethign to take care of it, but most asthma medications have icky side effects in one way or another, they mess with your body and how it works in some very subtle ways, and they’re not much fun if you can avoid them by other measures. However, many people have much more rapid onset asthma, and it can be very easy to say "I’ll be fine in 5 minutes – only then you aren’t. I hope some of this helps – so far (4 months) I’ve been very happy with my cat, and my allergies have been fine, but it’s something I keep a careful eye on. -Gwynyth
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I have an Alpine Filter and it helps tremendously. I was the glass plates and the filter in it monthly and there is never anything to replace. It takes odors out of the air and everything! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL ^4.128.44.7!wbnws01.ne.mediaone.net.POSTED!not-for-mail Xref: news.jps.net rec.pets.cats.health+behav:12113 Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
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Here is the link to the allerpet website. http://www.allerpet.com/ Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Oh! This is too bad, Rachel. Someone posted about a product called Allerpet. I am not familiar with it as I don’t have allergies, but I think that is right – I only glanced at the post, sorry. Good luck. I am sure you will find a way to deal with this. But until then…… Well I’m going to consider making an appointment with my allergist realy soon, I have allergy drops by they are over the counter stuff and I’m not so sure they work, although they help, they burn to use at first, and it’s miserable when I don’t use them. I might have to get reactine for a while until I can solve this, but that’s a very expensive solution to a problem, I think it’s like 12$ a box of 12. Pounce eats up any spare spending money I have and I rather spend it on him than on medication for my allergies. And at any rate, if Pounce passes away, it will lighten my budget a little, but I will still have Cleo for a while yet, she’s old but she’s not that old, and Cleo seems to be the cat that has given me the most grief for my allergies. (She’s lying beside me now, I’m not reacting yet, maybe it’s prolonged exposure or something…) And maybe as well, it’s because I touched the cat then touched my eyes, dad seems to be teh same way, if he uses his hand to push Cleo away then puts his hands in his face, he has the same awful reaction to her. Well I just thought I’d ask, I’m sure there are very allergic cat lovers here who have possible solutions. Unfortunately this type of allergy is unbearable, I can cope with a runny nose (which happens all the time anyways from other allergies) but I cannot take itchy, swollen, red eyes. Thanks, Rachel — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
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If you are allergic to cats, the last room they should be in is your bedroom. Keep them out ! Since you spend many (consecutive) hours in a bedroom, it is best if this room is your one allergy-free sanctuary in the house. You should also encapsulate your mattress and pillow cases in the special plastic covers made for them. This is good for dust mites and airborne cat allergen. Do you have carpet or hardwood floors? Hardwood floors are much better for allergies, especially in the bedroom. If your cats will tolerate it, it’s good to bathe them once a week…it removes some of the Fel d 1 from their coats. An article I read from a vet also said that wiping them down with a damp cloth made from 1 part fabric softener and at least 4 parts water is good (let them dry naturally). Try using a fabric softener with less fragrance…fragrance is not bad for a cat…but may annoy some of them. If your house is very dry, a humidifier is good. Unfortunately, cats get more allergenic as they get older because their skin gets dry and therefore secretes more (allergen laden) sebum. Sometimes certain premium foods can help with their skin. Good luck !
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – *maybe* (hopefully) your cats have been exposed to something else you are allergic to? I know that people can develop allergies, but they usually "build up". Have they eaten anything different or do they go outside? Have you checked with your doctor? Allergy tests can be a right pain in the butt, however you might be able to just be tested for a cat allergy and at least then you’d know one way or the other. Good luck!!!! I’ve had allergy tests before, tey aren’t nice, but I don’t mind. When you have had to have the worst tests done, you start to think allergy tests and whatnot are no big deal, I prefer allergy tests to drawing several little tubes of blood (gotta love those CBCs and creatine tests). The cats never go out, it’s way too cold for kitties out here… I hope neighbourhood cow cat hasn’t been around because she is indoors staying warm and has not died from the cold (yes it’s been that bad). I have many allergies, dust for one, but I have never been affected in the eyes from dust, only from cat hair and dander. If my cats sleep on my pillow while I"m home (pounce doesn’t leave much fur so you can’t tell he’s been there on a dark patterned pillow) and I lie down, my eyes swell up, I just change the pillowcase and I know he’s been there. I thought maybe the way the cats have been shedding and stuff, and coming close my allergy has gotten worse because I never reacted to them just ‘being around’ before. I have a definite cat allergy, my allergist told me a few years ago to give up the cats if I could find a home, but because I wasn’t bothered by them enough, I didn’t even look into that option. Plus getting rid of cats doesn’t solve my severe allergy problems, my biggest problem is dust, I clean up more with cats around and if they weren’t around, I might not be as likely to clean the dust off all the surfaces in my house. (Ditto with vacuuming several times a week). — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
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Actually, it will be a thrillingly exciting present…. it made a huge difference with my allergies. That meant the cats are able to sleep with us, and since i love the way they "heat" the foot of the bed… lol B&C
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Actually I need a hepa filter, thanks for reminding me. I just haven’t checked into getting one yet… I might ask for one for Xmas. Not a thrillingly exciting present to get, but it might help alot. We have 4 cats here… and I am allergic to cats! However, I find that after I play with them or touch them I wash my hands and face right away. This seems to help alot. We also purchased a hepa air filter that we keep in the bedroom for the most part as at least 3 of the cats sleep with us. We also tried some stuff from Outright that you apply to the cats. We got it on line. All these precautions seem to be helping me … B&C I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
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And maybe as well, it’s because I touched the cat then touched my eyes,
I’ll bet money that this is why your eyes are swollen and itchy. I have made the mistake a few times of petting my cats and then itching my eyes, and the result is that my eyes have swollen nearly shut. It usually takes a few days for the swelling to go down.If you feel a need to touch your eyes, and have been petting your cats, wash your hands first, and I doubt you’ll have this problem again. Megan "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." -Edmund Burke Zuzu’s cat album: http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumList?u=244574&Auth=false
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Oh! This is too bad, Rachel. Someone posted about a product called Allerpet. I am not familiar with it as I don’t have allergies, but I think that is right – I only glanced at the post, sorry. Good luck. I am sure you will find a way to deal with this. But until then…… Tracy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I think I’ve just developd a recent sudden severe allergy to both my cats, I have had sore swollen eyes for 2 days now, only at home, and only when the cats are hanging around. I’ve used allergy eye drops but they don’t seem to help much. I think I"m going to go for the reactine. Has anyone developed an allergy like this, suddenly or otherwise, and how did they treat it? Giving up cats for this if it continues is not an option, Pounce will not be placeable in a home, and Cleo is also too old to be desired, so my only options is to attempt to combat this allergy, and not replace the cats if it continues on this level (when the cats pass away of old age), I expect Cleo will live a few more years atleast in her current state of health so I prefer to combat this allergy long term. Thanks. — zz | _,,,—,,_ Home to Pounce & Cleo zzz /,`.-’`’ -. ;-;;,_ And many furry friends ZZZ |,4- ) )-,_..; ( `’-’ in spirit ’—”(_/–’ `-’_) fL
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I’ve had allergy tests before, tey aren’t nice, but I don’t mind. When you have had to have the worst tests done, you start to think allergy tests and whatnot are no big deal, I prefer allergy tests to drawing several little tubes of blood (gotta love those CBCs and creatine tests).
If ya really want a fun test, get a cervical biopsy! Ow ow ouch! Or cervical needles (’scuse me while I chuck over the very memory). I’m afraid I’m at a loss now over your allergy problem. Best wishes, my dear, you belong with cats. :-( Take care. — Peace freedom & justice Deanna
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I have a definite cat allergy, my allergist told me a few years ago to give up the cats if I could find a home, but because I wasn’t bothered by them enough, I didn’t even look into that option. Plus getting rid of cats doesn’t solve my severe allergy problems, my biggest problem is dust, I clean up more with cats around and if they weren’t around, I might not be as likely to clean the dust off all the surfaces in my house. (Ditto with vacuuming several times a week).
I’ve got a wide range of allergies. Some of them are readily avoidable (feathers, which is a weird one, as I’ve never really been exposed to them), to mold (less avoidable, but moving from Massachusetts to Minnesota this summer made this fall – usually my worst time – much easier, due to the earlier frost and less lingering dampness) and dust. And cats and dogs and horses. (Dogs more than horses, horses more than cats…) I’ve also got allergy induced asthma. Most of the time, my allergies are pretty readily under control. My lungs have problems if I do something really stupid, or unless the environmental allergens get out of hand. If you’ve already got an allergist, you’ve probably heard most of these recommendations before, but the major thing that helps me is having an air filter in my bedroom. The one I have was under $100, does a 12×12 foot room, I hink, and needs minimal maintainance (changing the carbon filter every 3 months, and the HEPA filter every year or so.) Mine’s reasonably quiet, even running on high, though it’s taken my SO (who’s long distance) a day or two to get used to it when he visits. It’s good white noise, anyway. It’s quieter than the air conditioner, and about the same level as a high-end fan. It helps a lot with both dust *and* cat hair. One of the ways I remembered to change the filter was that my bedroom started gaining a light layer of dust, and it hadn’t for 3 months and more. If you get one, you want one with HEPA filtering, and it should tell you some stuff about how many allergens it blocks and down to what size. Climate control can also help a lot with dustmites (the real cause for most dust allergies) – I keep my apartment cool and dry, which they dislike. (By cool, I mean a hint above ‘too cool to be naked comfortably in for long but cool enough that bare feet are an edge cool sometimes’ – I don’t have a thermostat with a number in here, but I’d guess it’s around 63-65. Below 65 starts getting you dust mite benefits, I believe.) Washing bedding in very hot water regularly (every week or two weeks) can also *really* help. I don’t do this, because I’m in an apartment, and the work load to get them washed and brought back and put on isn’t a great use of time for me right now (as the allergies aren’t that bad) but it’s an excellent way to control allergens, if you have the filter to pick up the ones tossed into the air when you change the sheets. My cat is shorthaired (generic tabby, though I think she’s got some siamese in her based on shape, voice, and attitudes), and she doesn’t sleep on the pillows I use (she sometimes sleeps on a large square one also on the bed) or near the head of the bed all that often (she prefers the feet or elsewhere in the apartment) I take allergy medicine (Claritin) every so often (about every week, now), most often when I know I’m going to be at the house of friends who have cats (and who may not have households designed to head off dustmites or have more cats, so the allergen levels are higher). Talking to your doctor will probably get you the "You should get rid of the cats" lecture (my doctor gives it to me fairly regularly, but I find my lung function is about where it was pre-cat, and my stress levels are *far* better.) You might talk about the fact that your symptoms have changed, talk about reasonable fixes (like an air filter, washing sheets more often, controlling how the cats lie on your bed, trying things like Allerpet, etc). The other thing to be *really* careful of is the chance of developing allergy induced asthma. No one’s quite sure what triggers it, but asthma *is* a deadly disease. If you discover you have problems breathing, you should take strong action (going to your doctor or the emergency room as needed, depending how bad it is.) My asthma’s more of the ’slow build’ version, where I’ll build up to having real problems, so Ihave a few days to do somethign to take care of it, but most asthma medications have icky side effects in one way or another, they mess with your body and how it works in some very subtle ways, and they’re not much fun if you can avoid them by other measures. However, many people have much more rapid onset asthma, and it can be very easy to say "I’ll be fine in 5 minutes – only then you aren’t. I hope some of this helps – so far (4 months) I’ve been very happy with my cat, and my allergies have been fine, but it’s something I keep a careful eye on. -Gwynyth
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