What other options are out there for people with cat allergies, besides antihistamines?

You could try one of those hypoallergenic dogs.

thanks. I have done some research into those. I’m not much of a dog person, especially not for the tinier breeds, which are the kind that tend to be “hypoallergenic” (not without a weekly bath says Wikipedia) but that may be my only option if I want a pet as badly as I do. :/

You could try a series of allergy shots. Sometimes they work well enough that you can actually overcome the allergy altogether.

Also: Hairless cats

cool, despite my fear of needles, allergy shots could be the way to go. Hairless cats, sadly, are not hypoallergenic. The allergens are in their saliva.

Here is an article listing some cat breeds which are less likely to produce allergic reactions. Maybe allergy shots in combination with one of these breeds would work for you.

I know a guy who has a Sphynx (hairless), and he doesn’t bathe nearly as much as any hairy cat. A Sphynx might work as long as you don’t let him kiss you, and as long as you get him used to being bathed often as a kitten.

Wow thanks! I’m amazed I haven’t come across this article before. super super helpful. :D

@MyNewtBoobs
I’m pretty sure there are also hypoallergenic cat aswell. They just cost A LOT more money.

Nasalchrome can help but I’d get the generic.

cool… yeah no cats or dogs are ever truly allergen-free, I knew there were dogs that were less allergenic. the cats are news to me though! I’ll have to look into that, since I am way more of a cat person. :)

@FluffyChicken: Sphynx cats are way high maintenance, and they are very expensive to obtain. Their skin has special needs and requires you to set time aside without fail for weekly care. I love them, but it’s a real commitment and not everyone is ready for them.

I solved this problem by getting a poodle. Miraculously, I’m not allergic to him.