Pet Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to proteins found in an animal's skin cells (dander), saliva, or urine. Even if you don't directly touch an animal, these allergens can become airborne and land on surfaces throughout your home.

Common Animals Causing Allergies

While any animal with fur or feathers can potentially trigger allergies, the most common culprits include:

• Cats: Often considered a major source of allergens due to the small size and stickiness of their dander, which easily becomes airborne.
• Dogs: Different breeds produce varying amounts of dander, but all dogs can trigger allergies.
• Rodents: Animals like hamsters, guinea pigs, and mice can release allergens in their dander, urine, and saliva.
• Rabbits: Their fur and dander can be allergenic.
• Birds: Feathers and bird droppings can contain allergenic proteins.

Symptoms of Pet Allergies

Symptoms of pet allergies can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• Skin: Itching, hives, eczema (red, scaly, itchy skin)
• Nasal: Sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy nose
• Eyes: Red, itchy, watery eyes
• Respiratory: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness
• In severe cases: Anaphylaxis (a life-threatening reaction requiring immediate medical attention)

Symptoms can appear immediately upon contact with an animal or may develop over time with prolonged exposure.

Treatment of Pet Allergies

While completely avoiding pets is the most effective way to manage pet allergies, it's not always feasible. Treatment strategies focus on relieving symptoms and managing allergic reactions:

• Avoidance: Limiting exposure to pets is key. This includes keeping pets out of bedrooms, reducing contact, and washing hands thoroughly after any interaction.
• Medications:
• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines can help relieve itching, sneezing, and runny nose. ¹   1.  aman.uk
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• Nasal Corticosteroids: These prescription nasal sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
• Decongestants: Can help relieve nasal congestion but are typically for short-term use.
• Leukotriene Modifiers: Prescription medications that can block certain allergy-causing chemicals.
• Allergy Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Drops): For persistent and bothersome pet allergies, immunotherapy may be an option. This involves gradually exposing you to small amounts of pet dander over time to build tolerance and reduce your sensitivity. Both allergy shots and sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops) are potential delivery methods.
• Environmental Control Measures:HEPA Air Purifiers: Can help remove airborne pet dander from your home.
• Frequent Cleaning: Vacuuming regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum, washing bedding frequently, and dusting can reduce allergen levels.
• Hard Floors: Easier to clean than carpets, which can trap dander.
• Pet Grooming: Regular grooming of pets, ideally by someone without allergies or outdoors, can help reduce shedding.



Managing pet allergies often involves a combination of these strategies. Consulting with an allergist is recommended to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation.