Published Sep 27, 2025
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Cat allergies can be a real nuisance—doubly so when you’re a cat lover! Fortunately, you don’t need to endure symptoms or forgo felines forever. There are effective and safe medications that can help you live comfortably around cats—without excessive drowsiness or other side effects.
Each person reacts differently to allergy medications, so we’ve included a range of types, including antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids (plus, one drug-free saline rinse).
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s talk about the different types of medications for cat allergies and how we chose our top recommendations.
At a Glance: Best Medication for Cat Allergies To Buy
Want a quick look at the products reviewed in this article? In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
Allegra 24 Hour Tablets
- Works fasts
- Provides all-day relief
- Non-drowsy
Astepro Allergy
- First FDA-approved over-the-counter nasal antihistamine
- Can be used by children as young as six
- Works within 30 minutes
Flonase Allergy Relief
- Available over the counter
- Non-addictive
- Non-drowsy
Zyrtec-D 12 Hour Tablet
- Combines the power of an antihistamine with a decongestant
- Extended release for all-day relief
- Ideal for short-term use
Afrin No Drip Extra Moisturizing Spray
- Fast results
- Works for 12 hours
- Also works for colds
Children’s Claritin Chewables
- Dye-free
- Non-drowsy
- Available in grape and bubblegum
NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit
- Clears nasal passages of allergens, mucus, and other irritants
- Drug-free and safe for daily use
- Comfortable squeeze bottle is easy to use
3 Types of Medications for Cat Allergies
Finding the right allergy medication can help you manage symptoms and even enjoy the company of cats. To help you select a medication that makes sense for you, we outline three common types: antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines work by blocking histamine—the chemical released during an allergic reaction that causes symptoms like a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing.
There are first-generation (older) and second-generation (newer) antihistamines. First-generation meds, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cross the blood-brain barrier and cause drowsiness. Second-generation antihistamines, like loratadine (Claritin), Fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec), tend to be non-drowsy and last longer, making them a better choice for daytime use.
Antihistamines provide quick relief and are generally safe for most people.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and oxymetazoline (Afrin), work by shrinking blood vessels in the nasal passages. This reduces congestion and helps you breathe. Some antihistamines, like Allegra-D or Zyrtec-D, also include pseudoephedrine among their ingredients. Decongestants are available in both oral forms and nasal sprays.
While they can provide fast relief from a stuffy nose and sinus pressure, decongestants should be used cautiously. With shrunken blood vessels comes increased blood pressure. Pseudoephedrine may also cause side effects like rapid heartbeat and insomnia. Therefore, decongestants are not recommended for long-term use or for people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.
Decongestants are most useful for occasional contact with cats. If you share your home with a feline, however, an antihistamine or nasal steroid spray is a better choice.
3. Nasal corticosteroids
Corticosteroids minimize allergy symptoms by targeting inflammation. They mimic the hormone cortisol, which helps lower swelling and irritation in the nasal passages. Side effects are rare, but they include nosebleeds and, ironically, runniness. In some cases, corticosteroids can actually worsen nasal discomfort.
Nasal corticosteroids are ideal for people with persistent allergy symptoms who need long-term control rather than immediate relief. It may take a few days to a couple of weeks to notice the full effects. But they don’t cause drowsiness and can be used regularly without significant risk for most people.
Why Trust Cats.com
Although I’m not allergic to cats, I do suffer from seasonal allergies and understand the desperation of finding a medication that makes life bearable. To identify the best medications for cat allergies, I explored the different types available—antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids—plus, how each one works, and any side effects to consider. I also dove into customer reviews and discussions on platforms like Reddit to find out which solutions were successful for others.
Recognizing there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for cat allergies, we’ve organized our top recommendations by medication type. This way, you can easily find an option that suits your situation and health needs.
The Best Medication for Cat Allergies: Our Top Picks Reviewed
#1 Best Antihistamine Tablet: Allegra 24 Hour Tablets
Allegra contains fexofenadine, a second-generation antihistamine that alleviates common allergy symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes—without the extreme drowsiness often caused by older antihistamines like Benadryl.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
It’s a fast-acting formula: you can expect relief within an hour. This makes it handy for sudden allergy flare-ups. Plus, the 24-hour protection means less worrying about symptoms disrupting your plans.
This medication is appropriate for people age 12 and over.
What We Like:
- Fast-acting formula
- 24-hour protection
- Non-sedating
What We Don’t Like:
- Should not be taken with grapefruit juice
#2 Best Antihistamine Nasal Spray: Astepro Allergy
If you’re seeking quick relief from symptoms, Astepro Allergy should be on your radar. This spray contains azelastine hydrochloride and is the first FDA-approved over-the-counter nasal antihistamine spray.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
What sets Astepro apart is how fast it works. You can expect results in as little as 30 minutes. It’s long-lasting, too, delivering prescription-strength relief for up to 24 hours.
Astepro nasal spray is available OTC as a brand-name medication. You can also find it as a lower-cost generic with a prescription from your prescriber.
What We Like:
- Fast-acting relief within 30 minutes
- 24-hour symptom control
- Suitable for adults and children aged 6 and older
What We Don’t Like:
- Pricey option (unless you get a prescribed generic)
#3 Best Steroid Nasal Spray: Flonase Allergy Relief
Nasal steroid sprays are generally the most effective allergy treatment.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Flonase Allergy Relief is a corticosteroid nasal spray that addresses six different allergy-causing substances—unlike an antihistamine that only targets histamine. This means Flonase offers more comprehensive relief from allergy symptoms.
Flonase is non-addictive and won’t cause drowsiness, so it’s suitable for long-term use. After a few days of consistent use, you’ll notice the full effects.
It’s important to note that nasal steroids are not recommended for individuals with glaucoma, ulcers, or cataracts. You also should avoid this product if you’re using other steroid medications.
What We Like:
- Available over-the-counter
- Non-drowsy; does not cause sedation
- Can be used long-term
What We Don’t Like:
- May take a few days to see full effects
- Some users may experience nasal irritation or bleeding
#4 Best Decongestant Tablet: Zyrtec-D 12 Hour Tablet
Zyrtec-D tablets combine an antihistamine (cetirizine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine) to combat allergy symptoms and nasal congestion. This medication is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and older.
As we noted above, decongestants are not safe for long-term use. This makes Zrytec-D ideal for individuals seeking short-term relief. People living with a cat should consider options that can be used for a longer period.
Due to regulations on pseudoephedrine sales, Zyrtec-D must be obtained from a pharmacy counter with proper ID.
What We Like:
- Extended release for all-day relief
- Works as quickly as 30 minutes
- Ideal for situational allergies
What We Don’t Like:
- Not intended for long-term use
- Requires ID verification to purchase
#5 Best Decongestant Nasal Spray: Afrin No Drip Extra Moisturizing Spray
Afrin contains oxymetazoline, which works by shrinking swollen nasal passages. Mercifully, this spray also includes glycerin to moisturize dry, irritated nasal passages.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Folks seeking immediate results will appreciate Afrin’s fast-acting formula. That said, it’s important to note that Afrin is intended for short-term use only, ideally not exceeding three consecutive days. So, it won’t be a viable choice for someone who lives with a cat full-time.
What We Like:
- Works for 12 hours
- It can also be used for congestion due to a cold
- Won’t drip down the nose or throat
What We Don’t Like:
- Prolonged use can worsen congestion and lead to other side effects
- May cause temporary burning, stinging, or an increase in nasal discharge
#6 Best Medication for Kids: Children’s Claritin Chewables
A non-drowsy antihistamine is usually the first recommendation for kids suffering from allergies.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Claritin Chewables are a popular choice for managing allergies in kids aged 2 and up. Made with loratadine, a non-drowsy antihistamine, these chewable tablets provide effective relief from symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. They are designed to last for 24 hours.
Many users report that Claritin is less likely to cause drowsiness than Zyrtec (but takes a little longer to kick in).
Available in grape and bubblegum flavors, this formula is also available in a dye-free syrup and dissolvable tablets.
What We Like:
- Dye-free
- Non-drowsy formula: suitable for daytime use
- Provides 24-hour allergy relief
- Available in both grape and bubblegum
What We Don’t Like:
- May take longer to kick in
#7 Best Saline Nasal Rinse: NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit
While not a medication, per se, the NeilMed Sinus Rinse is another way to clear up your nose. This user-friendly nasal irrigation system flushes out allergens, mucous, and other irritants. A lot of people use saline rinses alongside other treatments for the best results.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
This kit includes a squeeze bottle for delivering the solution, plus 60 premixed packets of sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate. Used correctly, it should clean and hydrate the nasal passages without burning or stinging.
What We Like:
- Easy to use with a comfortable squeeze bottle design
- Allows you to keep your head upright
- No burning or stinging
- Drug-free and safe for daily use
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited to adult use only
What To Consider When Buying Medication for Cat Allergies
Each of the above medications works differently. How do you know which one is right for you? We lay out the top considerations that should guide your decision.
Long-Term vs. Situational Use
If you live with cats or frequently encounter them (i.e., pet store employees or rescue volunteers), you’ll need a solution suitable for long-term use. Antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays are both safe for regular use.
If, on the other hand, your exposure to cats is infrequent and limited to visits with friends, you might prefer a powerful and fast-acting decongestant.
Age
Some medications are only suitable for adults, while others can be given to children as young as 6 or 12. Always check age guidelines and administer dosages carefully if you’re purchasing for a child.
Health considerations
Be cautious with medications like pseudoephedrine, especially if you have heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Nasal steroids should be avoided if you have glaucoma, ulcers, or cataracts, and if you’re using other steroid treatments.
Antihistamines are generally safe for most individuals, but it’s always wise to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
when I’m around cats my throat closes up or at least that’s what it feels like. What allergy medicine should I use? I’m very allergic to them.
I would recommend talking to your doctor for a personalized recommendation.
How much do you give them cat
Hi Mary,
Are you asking how much allergy medicine you should give a cat?
It’s best to consult your veterinarian before giving your cat an antihistamine or other medication for allergies. Of the drugs available, cetirizine (the active ingredient in Zyrtec) is the safest and most widely used in veterinary practice. Dr. Shelley Knudsen, DVM of All Feline Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska recommends “½ of a 10mg tablet (5mg) once daily.” If you want to take a safer route, consider salmon oil or fish oil. Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce allergy-caused inflammation without any known side effects.
Hope this answers your question.
– Mallory