Scratch Those Allergies

Simple steps to ease pet-induced allergy symptoms.

By Nancy Coveney

From Reader's Digest

• Ban pets from the bedroom, and get a HEPA air purifier.



• No pet is completely hypoallergenic, but those that shed more trigger more symptoms, says Shirlee Kalstone, author of Allergic to Pets?



• Vacuum and dust often to eliminate sneeze- inducing dander and fur.



• Bathe and brush your pet often, especially if he sheds. If your symptoms are severe, have someone else do it for you.



• Getting a new cat? Consider a light-colored female. One study found that dark male cats create more allergic reactions.