What You Need to Know About Pet Allergens
Pet allergies are commonly triggered by exposure to the dander (dead skin cells) a pet sheds, or by being in areas where they relieve themselves. Even saliva from your sweet pet’s smooch can cause your allergies to flare.
Pet Allergens Are Everywhere
Many people are allergic to pet dander, which can be suspended in the air like pollen . They are called aeroallergens. Dander collects on surfaces like carpets, upholstered furniture, curtains and mattresses. Because it travels easily through the air, these allergens may also cling to your clothes and hair and are easily transferred in public settings where animals aren’t present, like schools and offices. If you suddenly start sneezing at work, one of the causes may be your new cat-loving co-worker.
Are There Hypoallergenic Pets?
Even though your cat may be hairless or you have a supposed “ allergy -friendly” breed of dog, your pet is not actually hypoallergenic . You may be more or less allergic to individual animals, but any furry or feathered friend produces proteins that can trigger allergies.
Which Pets Cause the Most Allergy Symptoms?
More people are allergic to cats than dogs because cats groom themselves with their tongues, depositing saliva on top of dander. You can also be allergic to rabbits, birds, ferrets and other animals you may keep as a pet.
How to Help Reduce Pet Dander Exposure
Just because you’re allergic to your pets, it doesn’t mean you always have to avoid them. Here are some tips to help reduce your exposure to pet allergens in your home.
Vacuum Often
Make it a clean sweep. Removing pet allergens in your home by vacuuming up dust and fur from carpets and furniture can help reduce your allergies. Invest in a vacuum that has a HEPA filter and double-thickness bags. Vacuuming may stir up dust and dander, so delegate the task to a family member or wear a dust mask.
Clean Cages and Bedding
Even small pets can cause a big reaction. Small rodents like gerbils, mice and guinea pigs spread allergens too. Because their cages are filled with bedding, large amounts of allergens can be found there. Clean cages and tanks regularly and supply clean, fresh bedding.
Purify the Air
Breathe a little easier. Placing HEPA air filters in rooms where you and your pets hang out together. may improve air quality in those rooms. If you have a forced-air heating and air conditioning system, change the filter often and choose high-quality filters.
REFERENCES
- Pet allergy: Are there hypoallergenic dog breeds? Mayo Clinic. Accessed March 24, 2020.
- Pet Dander. American Lung Association. Accessed March 24, 2020.
