Are Allergies Stopping You From Keeping A Pet?

Allergic to pets? You’re not alone. It is estimated that
10-15% of the population shares this sensitivity. And cat
allergies occur twice as often as dog allergies

Allergens, or specific proteins, are to blame for allergic
reactions to pets. These allergens can be found in your
pet’s saliva, urine and dander (flakes of dead skin).

There are ways to prevent allergic reactions to your pets,
but it is important to be able to tell what the truth
really is.

Myth: Pet fur causes allergies to act up.

Allergic reactions are not caused by your pet’s
fur, but rather the allergens that attach themselves to
your pet’s fur. Drifting dander is also a major culprit in
allergic reactions. These allergens can also cause
sensitivity for three years after the pet has gone.

Myth: If I buy a non-allergenic pet, I will not have to
worry about allergies.

All animals have skin and are therefore subject
to dander. Because of this, there is really no
non-allergenic breed to speak of. Some breeds may be less
irritating, depending on individual sensitivities.

Myth: Allergic reactions always start right away.

The longer you are exposed to an animal, the more
allergens will accumulate. Allergies tend to peak within
12 hours of handling the pet.

Myth: I am allergic to pets, so I can never have one.

It is possible for some people with pet allergies to live
comfortably with a furry or feathered companion, depending
on their sensitivity level. There are ways to help reduce
allergy symptoms by reducing your exposure to allergens.

Cats seem to be the most allergenic pets due to secretions
of an allergen called Fel d1 that are transferred to the
fur when the cat is cleaning itself. Male cats produce
more Fel d1 than females.

It has also been found that proteins in the urine of cats,
dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs hamsters and mice can cause
allergic reactions.

Myth: Younger animals are just as likely to trigger
allergic reactions.

Because dander is caused by old, dry skin, babies are less
likely to produce it and therefore less likely to irritate
allergies. It may take several months for young animals to
produce dander. You should keep this in mind if you are
considering getting a pet. Many people find they have no
trouble with kittens or puppies, but once they develop
dander, the allergies act up and the distraught owners
must get rid of their new pets.

But by following a few steps, it may be possible for you
to eliminate most of these allergens.

- Cover your mattress and pillow with plastic covers to
keep them clean

- Install hard wood flooring and use washable throw rugs,
which are easier to clean

- Make it a point to clean often

- Use HEPA filters in your vacuum cleaner

- Keep bedroom doors closed and pets out

- Brush your pets outside and clean yourself up
immediately (you may also want to cover your mouth
and nose to prevent inhalation of dander

- Talk to your doctor about allergy medications

- Consider keeping your pets outside

- Fish and reptiles make great pets, too