pet allergy

The most common form of pet allergy is an allergy to the tiny particles of dead skin and saliva which are shed by an animal and subsequently become airborne. These microscopic particles are known as ‘dander’.

Cats are generally more allergenic than dogs, as the particles shed from them are smaller than the particles shed from dogs, which means that they become airborne more easily and are airborne for longer. Airborne particles can easily fly up the nose, triggering lots of nasty symptoms.

Unless you are severely allergic to pets, there are lots of ways to avoid the allergens which don’t involve getting rid of your cat. See our Allergen avoidance tips below to find out how.

Symptoms

Spending more time inside during cooler months, (meaning increased contact with pet allergens), can cause symptoms to flare up and become difficult to manage. This may actually be the first time someone realises that they have an allergy.

Indoor allergy symptoms caused by pets can be very similar to the more well known hay fever symptoms.

Common symptoms include;

• Sore, itchy, watery, red eyes.
• Sneezing and wheezing.
• Cold like symptoms such as a runny nose and sinus pain. (Many people believe they have a ‘winter cold’ when their symptoms are a result of spending more time inside amongst pet allergens than in the summer).
• Asthma can be triggered by many of the allergens found in our homes.
• In some rare cases, sufferers can experience extreme symptoms such as shortness of breath or even anaphylaxis.  (Click here to visit the Anaphylaxis Campaign website – a brilliant charity which supports people with severe allergies).