By Ask Alice
Hi Alice!
I recently moved into an apartment building that allows cats. Although I am severely allergic, I never thought it would be a problem— why should a cat confined in a separate apartment bother me? Then, the day I moved in, I met a neighbor who happily told me I moved to the “cat floor.” Uh oh. I wasn’t confused for long: my neighbors open their doors and let their cats roam around the common area by the elevator! Four separate times, I have opened my door to find multiple cats running at me full speed! There’s nothing on the lease indicating where the cats are allowed, but is this normal!? I pay for the use of the common area, too, and never expected cats to be there! I have offhandedly mentioned my allergy to my neighbors, but they still don’t keep the cats inside. I would go to management, but I don’t want them to hate me— I hope to get along with everyone. But I also want to be able to breathe freely without having to visit the ER! I signed a one-year lease, so I can’t simply leave. Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks for your help,
Woefully Wheezy

