Allergic to your pet?

Allergies to pets

The go-to route that we take to get rid of allergies is to stay away from the allergen, i.e., the actual substance that causes an allergic reaction. For example, if you are allergic to nuts, you would not consume them in any form; if you are allergic to dairy products or lactose intolerant, you would strictly avoid any item containing dairy ingredients.

Pretty straightforward, right?

But what if you are allergic to your pet? Well, that complicates things a little.

At Cliffdale Animal Hospital, we understand that you cannot just “get rid” of your furry friends if you are allergic to them. Thankfully, there is good news: even if you are allergic to pets, you can still keep them without putting your health at risk!

So, take a sigh of relief and read on to know more about allergies to pets and how to treat them.

All about allergies to pets

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), about 15-20% of pet parents are allergic to animals. For these people, it becomes difficult to deal with this situation where their beloved pet is the cause of their allergy.

In general, whenever the concerned allergic person comes in contact with the allergen, it leads to certain reactions. Usually, the reactions include sneezing, coughing, sore throat, itchy skin, and in some extreme cases, difficulty breathing.

When it comes to animals, the problem-causing allergen is dander. Pets—especially dogs, cats, and furry or feathered animals—produce dander. These dandruff-like flakes of skin trigger allergies and can aggravate asthma. Other common allergens include proteins found in a pet’s saliva, urine, and sebaceous cells. Though any animal can trigger an allergic response, cats are the most common culprits. Often, people develop allergies to exotic pets such as guinea pigs, rabbits, rodents, and birds.

Are you even allergic?

If you are reluctantly deciding to find a new abode for your precious furry friend, then we would like to stop your hunt for a little while. Before sending them away, you need to be sure that your pet is the actual cause behind your allergy.

Though some allergies to pets are pretty obvious, others are harder to recognize than you’d think. So, if your eyes start to swell and your annoying sneezes don’t stop when you are near your cat, then we hate to break this to you; you probably are allergic to your pet. For some, allergic reactions can be mild. For example, people with asthma who grew up around animals and are in touch with them almost daily have subtle symptoms, like low-level congestion, instead of classic watery eyes.

While some people remain in a state of denial and are not ready to accept that they are allergic to their pets, others think that their pet is causing more problems than it actually is. Only an allergy test can confirm whether you have the allergy or not. Unless you are absolutely sure of the sensitization to your pet, you do not need to relocate your furry companion.

What to do if you are allergic?

It goes without saying that the best way to deal with allergies to pets is to remove pets altogether from home. But the best way is not always the right way. All pet parents have an unbreakable bond with their pets, and departing from them is heartbreaking. So, what is the next best thing to do if you are allergic to your pet… a way that does not involve you sending them away?
Here are some helpful tips:

• You should create an allergen-free room. If you have allergies to your pet, you can take a few steps to reduce allergens in your home. Start with your bedroom. You might want to limit your canine or feline companion from entering the room. If not all the time, at least you will have an allergy-free 8 hours to sleep well. Also, consider using hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials to help reduce congestion, sneezing, and itching.
• Remember that allergens collect in upholstery, drapes, and rugs, so do not forget to steam-clean them from time to time. You can even go for cotton furniture covers and washable blinds.
  Install HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter air purifiers to lock in the air loaded with allergens.
• Anti-allergen room sprays are another must-have as they deactivate allergens.
• Regular dusting of walls is also a necessity as it will help cut down on allergens.
• Consider purchasing washable pet beddings and cages that can be cleaned frequently.

Apart from all these measures, you will have to keep your pet clean too. For the same, bathe them at least once a week with a shampoo recommended by the vet. This will prevent the allergens from accumulating. The vet can even suggest a product to prevent dander from building up and flaking off. Regularly wipe your pet with this product. But, remember not to involve yourself in your pet’s bathing routine as it will trigger allergic reactions. If possible, take help from someone to do that part. And if you are in a hopeless situation of not receiving help from anywhere, then wash your hands after handling your pet and before touching your face.

Related blog: Reasons Why You Should Regularly Groom Your Pet

At a point, you might have to weigh the potential health consequences of keeping your furry companion with the emotional damage of losing it. Before taking any decision, carefully consider the severity of your symptoms as well as the value your pet adds to your life. And if you cannot fathom sending them to another pet parent, follow these measures and be safe.

Pet Grooming Services in Fayetteville, NC

At Cliffdale Animal Hospital, we offer pet grooming services, including a full brush-out, ear cleaning, teeth cleaning, nail clipping, shampooing and conditioning, hand blow drying, de-shedding treatment, flea removal, fur trimming, and more. Our pet grooming services will keep your furry friends looking nice and keep you safe from allergens.

Call Cliffdale Animal Hospital at 910-487-5013 or contact us online to schedule your pet grooming appointment in Fayetteville, NC.