Thanks for the responses.

I've always been a LITTLE sensitive to Bear, but I seem to be a LOT more reactive to him than usual this spring.

My allergies to him were about a three, but I love him at about an eight.

In my case, I have to wash the cats because all were rescued after being abandoned very young (before their mommas could teach them how to clean themselves) and none of them are very good at the self-cleaning. Also, Ellie has an immun disorder and pollen allergies, and I know you are going to laugh, but I think she might also be allergic to cats, everytime she wrestles with one of her brothers she has a sneezing and coughing fit. I use the pre-made cloths instead of a bathtub full of shampoo and water because it is much less traumatic to them.

Spoken like a true cat lover!