Cat Allergies

[CrazyCat]

Thanks everyone. I think I will give this a try this weekend.

Currently we have the bedroom off limits to the cats, as well as the computer room. The computer room is a place my boyfriend spends his time in the most, however, we also don't feel it's "Kitten proof" yet. The computer room will eventually be open to the cats, most likely, but the bedroom I think we will keep closed. My boyfriend keeps saying we should just let them in there (He may be allergic but he loves those little babies!) but I'm putting my foot down that we'll leave it closed for now.

It's good to know my cats will forgive me. They're so happy and cuddly and love us so much right now.

Shady, you mentioned blow drying. Won't this just add to the traumatic event? Or would it be helpful to get them use to that as well? One of the kittens loves to sit on the vent when the heat is on, so I'm thinking she would love the blow dryer once she gets passed the noise. But I also don't want to overdo it on the scariness for them? Anyone know of a relatively quiet blow dryer?

[emily_the_spoiled]

You can use a diffuser on the end of the hair dryer. That way the air isn't blowing directly on them.

BTW a few cat treats is always a good bribe

[Catty1]

A friend of mine had her grown daughter staying with her for a while. The daughter had two cats and my friend was particularly allergic to the one cat. The daughter tried the cat wipes that are for people allergies and my friend couldn't believe it! She had no allergic problems at all. That might be the simplest thing to start with.

If you do start getting them used to bathing while young, I have heard that Dawn dish detergent matches the pH of their skin. There are also shampoos at pet stores - including a dry one that you just brush out.

Hope all goes well and we at PT really like pictures...hint, hint...

[Shady]

Thanks everyone. I think I will give this a try this weekend.

Currently we have the bedroom off limits to the cats, as well as the computer room. The computer room is a place my boyfriend spends his time in the most, however, we also don't feel it's "Kitten proof" yet. The computer room will eventually be open to the cats, most likely, but the bedroom I think we will keep closed. My boyfriend keeps saying we should just let them in there (He may be allergic but he loves those little babies!) but I'm putting my foot down that we'll leave it closed for now.

It's good to know my cats will forgive me. They're so happy and cuddly and love us so much right now.

Shady, you mentioned blow drying. Won't this just add to the traumatic event? Or would it be helpful to get them use to that as well? One of the kittens loves to sit on the vent when the heat is on, so I'm thinking she would love the blow dryer once she gets passed the noise. But I also don't want to overdo it on the scariness for them? Anyone know of a relatively quiet blow dryer?

Actually, mine relax when it comes to blow drying, often, they just lay down and let that happen..just dont overdo the heat. Warm only, never high, and I use a low speed, it makes much less noise. One thing you can do is put the dryer on around them.. casually point it at them, with words of praise and encouragement...sort of introduce it before the 'big day' a few times, and remember when using the dryer, keep it moving, never on one spot too long. If they are short haired..a quick combing or brushing will speed up the process..it shouldnt take long, whereas with mine the blowdrying is what takes the
majority of the time, as they have long thick coats.

You will be fine, be gentle, pay lot's of attention to them in the form of praise, and encouragement..sounds weird, but keep talking, it helps soothe them, and keep yourself calm.

It's an experience, and you'll get used to it..finding what works best for you.

You might find, until you get the hang of it, that another pair of hands (person) can be very helpful. I dont have that option (another person) but I manage just fine. You do have to multitask.
Dont forget to clip claws til you know how they will react.

As for shampoo's and conditioners, I use Mane and Tail. That's what the lady that bred them uses exclusively. I got it at Walmart, big bottle, reasonably priced.