grandson's cat allergy

[Mar1]

From my experience, there shouldn't be any reason to get rid of the cat. I myself have asthma which is set off by anything I'm allergic to, which happens to be cats, dogs, trees, flowers etc etc. I have 3 cats, 1 guinea pig and 1 sugar glider. I'm allergic to the cats, I'm allergic to the guinea pigs bedding, luckily I'm not allergic to my sugar glider. I'm able to deal with it by simply taking my meds and I haven't had a problem. Obviously, your grandson may have more severe asthma than I do, but I still see no reason to get rid of your cat. You're lucky enough to able to keep your cat in a closed off area away from your grandson. With good hepa filters and regular cleaning, there shouldn't be any dander getting near him except for what you bring up on your clothes, which I would doubt would do much if he's taking his meds. I would give it a while, see how things go on his meds before doing anything drastic.

[hypatia]

Thanks so much Titchou and Mar1 - i'm hoping my d-i-l will give it a little time and am inclined to show this thread to her. This is kind of a 'should we-shouldn't we' roller coaster situation.

[misguideddream]

Originally Posted by hypatia

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.

That may have been due to the season as well. I'm not sure where you're located, though. My son hasn't been diagnosed with asthma yet (he's a week shy of turning 2 y/o) but every winter he has breathing problems and is on the albuterol neb as needed.

[sneezydiva]

Also what else is he allergic to? Is he allergic to dustmites? If so are they doing all the dust mite preventative measures? This will make a huge difference in his condition. I have done every dustmite prevative thing except for getting rid of the carpet.

If your grandson is allergic to mold, you should not shampoo the carpets, except with a dry chemical method. The moisture in the carpet will encourage mold growth.

[wakkochic17]

I don't have asthma, but I am allergic to cats yet I have 2. I would give it time to see if the treatment is working. Think about getting a HEPA room air-purifier and do what you can to keep the cat away and keep the house clean. If the situation with him gets worse, you know what you will have to do, but no need to rush into giving kitty away! Mar.. that's so cool you have a sugar glider! They are so cute.. I have a ferret, he loves to play with the cats.