Severe Sinus/Breathing Allergies - Running Out Of Ways To Keep Fred

Actually, I'm posting this on behalf of a neighbor who's grown quite attached to the abandoned cat he took in about 4 years ago. He recently retired and as a result, they spend most of the time at home together now. And unfortunately, that's about when his severe sinus and breathing condition began to flare up. He's now seen two specialists who, among other suggestions, both advise that he give up his beloved sidekick. One suggested a 5year weekly series of allergy injections but between the logistics, costs, age, etc, it just isn't a feasible option for him. FWIW, isn't that an awful lot of shots? He's suffering pretty badly and at this point is running out of options.

Has anyone been through a similar dilemma? ...maybe had some success trying, or knows someone who's been treated using some alternative, holistic, or herbal types of remedies which he could at least check out before putting the little guy up for adoption? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Sounds like it might be feline asthma has that been mentioned?

Originally Posted by hissy

Sounds like it might be feline asthma has that been mentioned?

Click to expand...

I think he is talking about the owner, and not the cat...
I don't have experience with allergies, but several members here are allergic to cats, and I am sure you will get some feedback. If his case is this bad though, I am not sure about his options. Does he take a daily allergy tab? I hear
zyrtec works like a charm...

This article may help:

http://www.thecatsite.com/Health/223...t-Allergy.html

As far as the 5 year shot regimin, it starts off at once a week, then after 6 months goes to once every 2 weeks, then after 6 months once every 3 weeks, etc. I currently get them every four weeks.

^ A tough regimen, to be sure. But if a person already has allergies to other things and asthma, for example, it is definitely worth it.

My case is probably not as severe as your neighbor but I suffer from sinus problems/allergies/asthma. I have a dog, a cat and just added a second cat. I guess you could say I'm a glutton for punishment. But I couldn't live without my animals. I'd have to take allergy meds. regardless since I'm allergic to outdoor triggers as well, i.e. mold, pollen, etc. I feel that weather is a trigger for my sinuses rather than my pets. I use allergen pillow case covers on the bed, and also throw a sheet over the comforter which I wash weekly per my doctor. Thorough dusting/vacuuming helps and although I don't use it many people have an air purifier. My allergies get worse in summer with the heat and humidity, just one reason why I prefer winter.
Best of luck to your neighbor. I hope he can work things out, please keep us updated.

^If you have central AC in your house don't forget to change filters regularly. In a non pet home it's recommended every six months, in a home with pets it needs to be done more often. That can help allergies some.