Expert: Tomay - 4/8/2004

Question
My wife and I are empty nesters in our early 50's. Because of my blood pressure/anxiety problems we adopted a one year old male tuxedo (short hair) just one year go. He's strictly an inside cat. It has been a VERY positive addition to the household for both of us. Probably for the cat too. He's obviously very happy, hand fed and actively played with. Unfortunatley my wife is severly allergic. She's been to the allergist, tried all manner of meds (Xyrtec, Flonase, Claritin, etc.). We've tried the stuff you put in his food too.  Is there anything we can do. Brushing and rubbing him down with a waterless shampoo for cats helps a little.

Answer
I apologize for the delay in the response. This message was apparently misdirected.  Again, sorry for the delay.
There is a line of pet shampoos and leave-on conditioners called 'Aller-Pet', specifically for the problem you have.  Another option may be to have your cat shaved down by a professional groomer.  I have a domestic shorthair male tux myself, and keep him shaved down because of the shedding.  I find it most helpful, (even tho I don't have allergy problems). When his coat is taken very short, his skin can more easily be cleaned with the waterless shampoos and such.  Hope this is helpful.