Buying a house from pet owners?

March 30th, 2005 by admin

pet allergy
lawyagrl asked:


My husband and I are considering buying a house that we very much like. However, one problem is the owners’ cat, to whom I am very allergic. Even being in the house for a few minutes triggers my allergies, despite taking allergy medicine ahead of time. Our realtor assured us that getting the carpets cleaned and having the house thoroughly cleaned before we move in should take care of the problem, provided we also change the filters in the HVAC system. For those of you with experience of this (buyers, realtors): is this true? Does cleaning carpets/walls/etc work to remove all the cat dander and make the house safe for someone with pet allergies? Or not so much? Please let me know. Thanks!

5 Responses to “Buying a house from pet owners?”

  1. Amanda H Says:

    You’ll never be able to remove 100% of the allergens from carpet. If it were hardwoods, I’d say go for it. But the allergens really bury themselves inthe carpet. You may find yoruself replacing it!

  2. cabridog Says:

    Not very much Ok as far as I do know !

  3. elizabeth Says:

    Go to the pet supply store and buy 2 of the biggest jugs of Natures Miracle they have. Then spray it everywhere in the house. This stuff is a miracle.

  4. sewerrat6 Says:

    I have pet’s in my home and I know your main question is about cat dander which is a major issue but also pay close attention to your ankle area to see if they have fleas which could also pose a big problem. Easiest way to see wear white shoes. As for cleaning to get the dander out will you be able to have someone do all this cleaning for you it could get someone to clean this for you?

  5. Pam Says:

    Father-in-law’s new wife had a similar issue. Family house had 3 cats and she was very allergic to cats. Needless to say, she does live there today and does not have a problem. Don’t ask me how they did it, but they did do a “thorough cleaning” and it worked.

    I’m sure the carpets are culprit #1…but in your list, you didn’t mention the air ducts. I would think they would need to be cleaned as well. Don’t forget those.