There is no underestimating the joy and fulfillment that a kitten or other pet may bring into your life.
Unfortunately, many of us are allergic to cats and other pets.
That doesn't mean that those of us who are susceptible to pet allergies have to go without feline companionship.
There are a variety of things that you can do to eliminate the symptoms of cat allergies, or at least reduce them to a manageable level that you can cope with.
Cleaning You can reduce your allergy symptoms significantly by keeping your home extremely clean.
This entails very frequent vacuuming, dusting, and other cleaning.
Using a HEPA (high efficiency particle absolute) vacuum cleaner will eliminate many of the allergens from your home before they get into the air.
Once they are in the air, use of a HEPA air purifier will further eliminate them.
You may also want to vapor steam clean your carpets, curtains, and upholstery regularly.
Bathing the cat regularly in filtered water, traumatic though it may be for both of you, may also be beneficial.
Antihistamines There are a variety of over the counter and prescriptions antihistamines that are generally very effective at blocking the body's allergic reactions.
If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications, speak with a doctor before you begin taking them to ensure that there are no consequences.
Home Environment If you have hardwood flooring under your carpets, removing the carpet will eliminate one place where allergens can build up.
Similar is true with furniture; replacing your cloth upholstered furniture with wood and leather varieties will have a similar effect.
You may also want to consider keeping the cat out of carpeted rooms and bedrooms.
Location If the cat is older and you are not living in a cold climate, you might consider the possibility of an outdoor cat.
Most of the allergens will remain outside, and the cat will generally be around.
The problem with keeping an outdoor cat is that they do not necessarily bond with you and they become more an acquaintance than a pet.
Most of the companionship aspects of having a pet are lost.
These are, of course, just a handful of tips that can help you cope with pet allergies.
Every person is different, however, and what may work for one person may be completely ineffective for another.
The best thing to do is to study, experiment, and find out what works for you.