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01/19/2007: "Ah-Choo! Boyfriend v. Cats"

Well, it turns out my boyfriend is allergic to my two cats. Bummer. I kind of knew that already but this week I realized that it’s a bigger problem than I originally thought. So, I spent some time last night reading up on what a person can do to make their cat-house more hospitable to someone with allergies. Truth be told, I have allergies to my cats as well, only I’ve gotten used to them so these changes will be good for me as well.

A couple weeks ago I quit letting the cats in the bedroom. That seems to be a common piece of advice. I vacuumed under the bed and wiped down all the surfaces and washed all the linens and now I keep that door shut all the time even though poor lil Osiris paws at the door and cries because he doesn’t understand why he’s been suddenly banished.

Also, if I’m cuddling with the BF on the couch and Osiris or Lemoni wants to join in, I have to run them off which makes me feel terrible. I’m sure they’re confused and don’t understand why I’m not as affectionate…plus, I’m not at home as much these days either.
:(

This weekend I’m going to order some of those hypoallergenic mattress and pillow guards, dust and vacuum the rest of the house (including the upholstery), and run my air purifier on high. I’m also going to buy some new kitty grooming products and try to be better about brushing and wiping them down each morning, and getting them some cool heated kitty mats so they’ll have a cozy spot to snuggle in the living room other than the couch.

Hopefully all this work will result in the BF having fewer allergic reactions, and I may notice an improvement in my own symptoms as well. Not to mention the joy of keeping a cleaner house. I just have to make sure to continue to give my kitties lots of play time, cuddles and affection as I really do love them.

I'd appreciate any stories of peaceful co-exsistence between pets and pet allergy sufferers...including any other tips on how to safeguard my home.