No need to give Fluffy up for adoption --There are many things you can do to reduce your allergies.

Your Home

Replace most of your carpet with vinyl or hardwood floors. Hard floors are easier to clean and do not trap dander as carpets do.

Keep the cat off your bed. If possible, restrict access to all upholstered furniture, as dander sticks to it easily.

Use HEPA air filters or purifiers to remove airborne allergens. Invest in an air-tight vacuum with a HEPA filter.

You

Wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap after touching the cat. Make sure you have a lint remover to use on your clothes after you picked up the animal. Do not touch your face (especially your eyes) before washing your hands.

In extreme cases, consult your physician. Many OTC (over-the-counter) medications and prescription drugs (including allergy shots) are available to treat cat allergies.

Your Cat

If you have a choice, pick a short-haired cat. They shed less.

As tricky as this is, bathing your cat once a week reduces dander. If not possible, at least make sure you brush him daily and then use a damp cloth to wash him once a week.

Confine the cats to only certain rooms in the house. While this is tough for many pet owners, keeping the animal out of the bedroom is a small price to pay in order to keep him in your life.