grandson's cat allergy

[elmhar]

I'm so sorry to hear you are left with this dilemma, Hypatia. Our local humane society has lots of ideas ... perhaps the one in your community does, too? Sometimes they have lists of 'cat experts' who thrive on challenges like your cat poses-- people like you who have an especially big heart for animals who were once abused.

A vet might even be able to Rx a med for the cat to mellow it out ... yah, their giving prozac-like stuff to pets now. I realize that's not the option you would prefer, but it might make the cat adoptable. Sounds like she's still suffering from PTSD.

Best wishes.

[hypatia]

Wow--you have been a fount of information, elmhar. We do have a humane society here and will be asking for their assistance. I'm feeling much better now and can't thank you enough for your caring and intelligent advice. These boards are a godsend for people like me.

[sneezydiva]

Personally, I would not be so quick to get rid of the cat. How severe is your grandson's asthma? How long have you lived in the house? The truth is getting rid of the cat doesn't get rid of the allergans. They will still be in your ducts, in you carpet etc... Because of this, most doctors don't demand the pet be removed any more. Just kept away from the allergic person. Of course, if you granson's case is very serious, it might be a different story.

I don't have asthma, but am allergic to dogs. We bought a house that used to have dogs.(stupid I know) We had that carpet cleaned a number of times, vaccumed with a HEPA vaccum cleaner. But it didn't make a bit of difference until we finally paid the big bucks to get new carpet in the entire house. If you do decide to give away the cat, make sure it isn't in vain, your son and d-i-l need to replace the carpets, no matter how new they are.

[Titchou]

OK, I have asthma and many allergies. Cats are #2 - or were the last time I was tested. My doc asked it the cat could just stay out of the bedroom. I said "I have a 10 x 13 color portrait of the cat." He said we'd work around it...and we have. Bottom line, see how his meds work for him and the house cleaning ideas above - as well as keeping him and the cat apart. I bet he'll be OK.

[hypatia]

It's a brand new house, Sneezydiva, and we've been in it for about five months. My bedroom vent has never been open and my cat is restricted to this area. The other cat has been given to my other son, but i'm sure left dander traces all over. The little one has had two scary asthmatic/bronchial episodes this winter and last week was put on albuterol neb as needed, pulmicort and singulair. He is doing so much better now.

Cleaning the vents is probably a good idea once the cat is gone. Carpets are being shampooed next week. I appreciate your candid comments and have learned so much here. Thank you