Litter boxes as allergens:
If you or someone in your family is developing a cat allergy, the good news is the allergy may not be directly related to your feline. As for the bad news? It could be related to the litter box which you’ll still need to keep since the cat and litter box go hand-in-hand.
Here are some tips to keep in mind to reduce the allergen of the litter box in your home:
- Clean the litter box regularly and be strategic to its location.
- Avoid placing it in an area close to air ducts or areas which will circulate heat or air conditioning through your home.
- Avoid having the cat litter box located in a main room or places where people frequently congregate.
- Opt for natural litter boxes such as litter pearls which have substances such as pellets, flakes or granites instead of clay litter boxes. People are usually more allergic to the coarse clay litter boxes since by essence they have fine dust.
- If you’re allergic to the litter box, by all means have another family member clean the litter box daily.
- Even if you’re not allergic to the cat litter box, be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask when cleaning the litter box.
- Some experts recommend scooping on a daily basis and completely changing litter boxes on a monthly basis, for those with severe allergies it’s recommended to completely change litter boxes on a weekly basis.
- Once the litter box is completely changed, it’s important to scrub it in hot water by rinsing carefully and let it dry outside in natural air.
- Note: interestingly enough, strong products like ammonia will enhance urine odors rather than reducing it.
For more information about ways to clean the litter box while reducing allergens please contact your local veterinarian.
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