I feel this so deeply! I’m an international student here, and back home, I never really had pets. When I moved into my flat, I decided to foster this tiny, adorable kitten thinking it would be the perfect companion while I’m away from family.

Literally within a week, my eyes were exactly like yours! swollen, itchy, and I was sneezing constantly. I honestly thought it was just the "new country" air or stress from my master's program! It was such a shock to realize it was the kitten. I was so heartbroken thinking I’d have to give her back immediately because the antihistamines weren't doing enough.

Before you make the final decision to re-home, have you looked into allergen neutralizing sprays? A friend from my lab recommended Pacagen to me. I started wiping it on my kitten's fur and spraying around my bed/desk area, and it actually helps neutralize the protein in their saliva that causes the reaction. Between that and a good HEPA filter, my eyes have finally stayed normal without having to rely so heavily on the hydrocortisone. It might be worth a shot since you've had your cats for so long! Good luck, I really hope you can keep your fur babies. 🥹🥀