When it comes to pet allergies, the solution seems simple: get rid of your pet. However, that’s easier said than done. Emotional attachments, other family member’s desires, and your living situation can make getting rid of a pet an extremely hard decision to make. So, if you decide to power through the allergies to keep your beloved cat or dog, here’s how you can minimize your discomfort.

Keep pets OUT of the bedroom

Because you spend so much of your time in your bedroom, you should delegate it as a pet-free zone. Although you might miss your dog or cat cuddling with you at night, it will be worth it to get a good night’s sleep and to have a room where you can breathe a little easier.

Get a HEPA air filter

According to WebMD, HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arresting) filters can help remove some airborne particles that can make allergies worse. You can also get a HEPA filter for your vacuum.

Vacuum carpets and clean walls

Keeping your carpet and walls as free from animal dander as possible will help with your allergies. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner and use it often.
Place litter boxes in an area unconnected to the air supply for the rest of of the home.

If you have a cat or multiple cats, keep their litter boxes in a place that is unconnected to the air supply for the rest of the home. Also avoid litter boxes at all times and delegate the changing of the litter to another family member if possible. If you must change them, make sure to wear a mask while cleaning and limit your exposure.

Wash your pet

Washing the pet with water can also help minimize your allergies by decreasing its allergen count. Having your pet regularly groomed can also help and is also beneficial to your pet by preventing matting, according to animalplanet.com.

Allergy shots

Getting allergy shots is another option that can help lessen allergy symptoms when you have a pet in your home. McGovern Allergy & Asthma Clinic offers allergy shots that can be taken weekly, monthly, or for the amount of time recommended by one or our esteemed physicians.

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Although these tips will not completely rid you of your unpleasant allergy symptoms, they can help minimize your symptoms a little bit. If you still have questions or concerns about allergies, contact one of the board certified allergists at McGovern Allergy and Asthma Clinic.