Advice wanted: Suspected cat allergy in 8m old baby

[amydown]

Our 8-month old boy has had a runny nose for over 2 months and after many trips to the GP, they are pretty sure he's developed an allergy to our cats. We have been referred to King's for an allergy test for this plus food intolerances but was told by them today that we are currently on the list for an appointment in October.

His symptoms are getting worse by the day and we are trying to decide a) whether to go for a private test (any recommendations?) and/or b) to rehome the cats now based on medical opinions we have received so far... (anyone know of loving homes looking for a couple of gorgeous cats?)

It is absolutely devastating for us but can't bear the thought of putting the little one through the daily pain of itchy nose.

Has anyone gone through a similar experience?

Advice, recommendations for private allergy clinics, offers of a loving home for our Yogi and Cookie all gratefully received.

(cats are fully neutered, vaccinations up to date, lovely with the baby, very affectionate, and even have their own passports!)

Edited to ask for any recommendations of cat sprays, etc. for allergies in the meantime.

[Ko]

i had allergy tests (also allergic to cats!) done at london bridge hosp but they don't do children. kings may do private appointment thru the guthrie clinic, otheriwse try the the portland hosp or other private clinics in nhs hospitals. sorry i can't be more specific. good luck x

[The Nappy Lady]

Amy,

I'd put cats in a cattery for a week or two. Deep clean the house and see what happens.

I am allergic to cats and after a bad reaction it can take a few days for symptoms to totally go. If he stops sniffling whilst cats are away but is bad again when they return I'd say that's your answer. I react within minutes of setting foot inside a house with cats (even if they aren't there).

Hope it proves to be something else, poor you.

Molly

[pommie]

have you tried a product called petal cleanse? You rub it on the cats fur and its stops the cats releasing the pores that causes allergies. It is a great product and definitely worth trying if you seriously do not want to rehome your cats

[amydown]

Thank you for the advice everyone. We will try Petal Cleanse and we are away on holiday in a week's time and that should give us a better idea of whether it's the cats or not.