I have always been a cat lover but have never been allowed one beacuse most of my family and I are allergic. Are there any alternatives other than drugs for us so that I can finally have a cat? Thanx!

[This message was edited by Milaia on 01-31-03 at 09:14 PM.]

Probably not, depending on how severe the allergies.

There is a product called AllerPet for cats. Once a week you rub the cat with a towel soaked with the product. It helps to cut down on the dander in the coat.

Some people say that bathing the cat once a week in distilled water helps as well.

The problem is, you cannot make the cat NOT have dander. It's a natural by-product of its saliva when cleaning themselves. And not only does the cat have dander, but the dander will fall off the cat and into carpet, upholstery, etc.

I would worry about the stress on the cat - going to a new home, being soaked, bathed, etc frequently (which they can get used to), but then if it doesn't work, end up having to go to another home. Cats do not adjust to change as easily as a dog, and it can be VERY stressful to them. I see it every day at work.

Not to mention your family, and how attached everyone will be emotionally, then how painful it is to give away the pet.

Yeah, but good luck trying to bathe a cat! My little one gets right in the shower with me but I'm afraid my big one would be traumatized for life if I ever tried to bathe her. She hardly even lets us pick her up!
Drugs are really your best bet when it comes to combating allergies. Is there some reason you are opposed to them? I've found that Drixoral Cold & Allergy works quite well and I've heard good things about Claritin.
You may also want to determine whether you are allergic to ALL cats or just some. My mother and I, for instance, are allergic to short-haired cats but not to long-haired cats. As for those no-haired cats, well, they're just creepy.

Actually, I have given cats baths at work and it amazes me how well they deal with it. The most important thing is how well the person can control the cat during the process.

Yeah, but it depends on the cat, too. Better to let a professional (such as yourself, SPCAgal) handle it. A professional with heavy gloves.