The purpose here is to get "up close and personal" with a cat, but on a limited basis. Ask your host or hostess to choose a time when the cat has been fed and is comfortable or relaxed. If they are really good friends, you can ask them to use an allergy relief spray or wipes on their cat, which you will provide ahead of time. Simple Solution is a brand that worked for my allergic friend. (Compare Prices )
Use your allergy medication half an hour before the arranged time. When you arrive, let the cat set the pace. He may immediately greet you to sniff at your feet and legs at first. You can dangle your hand to see if he rubs up against it, an indication that he'd enjoy being petted. Go ahead and pet him. If your allergies are still under control, you might allow him to jump onto your lap. I'd limit this first visit to 10 or 15 minutes at the most, judging by your level of comfort.
In another week or two, you can try it again with the same cat, and staying up to half an hour. Again, judging by the results, you can branch out to visiting other friends with cats.
