Pet Allergies

Pet Allergy

Pet allergies are triggered by specific proteins—known as allergens—found in an animal’s fur, skin, urine, and saliva. These allergens are also present in pet dander, which consists of microscopic skin, hair, or feather particles.

While these proteins are typically harmless, an allergic immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful invaders, similar to bacteria or viruses, leading to an overreaction.

Common Pet Allergens

Although any pet can produce allergens, cats, and dogs are the most frequent culprits. Other animals that can trigger allergies are:

• Birds
• Rabbits
• Rodents: Such as rats, mice, gerbils, hamsters, and guinea pigs.
• Horses

Symptoms

The following are signs and symptoms of pet allergies brought on by nasal passage inflammation:

• Running nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Itching in the nose, throat, or roof of the mouth
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Frequent awakening
• Facial pressure and pain
• Swollen, blue-colored skin beneath the eyes
• Frequent upward rubbing of the nose in children

You can also encounter the following if your pet allergy causes asthma:

• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Loud whistling or wheezing sound when breathing out
• Difficulty sleeping due to coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing

Skin symptoms:

Allergic dermatitis occurs when some people with pet allergies also have skin symptoms. This is an immune system response that causes inflammation of the skin.

Direct contact with a pet that triggers allergies may result in allergic dermatitis, leading to symptoms such as:

• Elevated, red spots of skin (hives)
• Eczema
• Itchy skin

Causes

When the immune system responds to something foreign like pollen, mold, or pet dander, allergies can result.

The body releases proteins called antibodies, which shield you from foreign intruders that could infect you or make you sick. Your immune system also produces antibodies when you have allergies, which mistakenly perceive your specific allergen as dangerous.

In turn, the immune system reacts by causing inflammation in your lungs or nasal passages when you breathe in the allergen or are exposed to it. Frequent or prolonged allergen exposure can lead to chronic inflammation of the airways linked to asthma.

• Cats and dogs

Allergens from dogs and cats can be detected on their fur, saliva, urine, and sweat, as well as in the skin cells they shed (dander). Due to its small size and ability to stay in the air for extended periods with only a modest amount of air circulation, dander is a special concern. Additionally, it adheres to clothing and gathers in upholstered furniture.

Pet saliva can also adhere to carpets, furniture, bedding, and clothing, and when dried, it can become airborne.

While some cats and dogs are referred to as “hypoallergenic” due to shedding less fur, no breed is completely free of allergens.

• Rodents and rabbits

Rodents are pets like mice, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs. They produce allergens found in their hair, saliva, dander, and urine. Additionally, dust from litter or sawdust in their cages can trigger airborne allergens. On the other hand, allergens from rabbits are present in their hair, dander, and saliva.

• Other pets

Pets without fur, such as reptiles and fish, rarely cause allergies.

Risk Factors

Pet allergies are widespread, but factors like a family history of asthma or allergies may increase your likelihood of developing them.

Complications

• Sinus infections: Chronic inflammation in the nasal passages due to pet allergies can block the sinuses (hollow cavities attached to the nasal passages). These blockages increase the risk of bacterial infections like sinusitis.
• Asthma: For individuals with asthma, pet allergies can make it harder to control asthma symptoms. Exposure to allergens may trigger severe asthma attacks that require urgent medical attention or emergency care.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can suspect a pet allergy according to your symptoms, a physical examination, and your responses to specific questions. During the exam, a lighted instrument may be used to assess the lining of your nose. In cases of pet allergy, the nasal lining may appear swollen, pale, or bluish.

Allergy Skin Test:

To pinpoint the allergen causing your symptoms, your doctor may recommend an allergy skin test, often performed by an allergist.

During this test, small amounts of purified allergen extracts containing animal proteins are pierced onto the skin’s surface, typically on the forearm or upper back. After 15 minutes, the skin is checked for signs of an allergic reaction, such as a red, itchy bump at the site of the allergen. For instance, if you’re allergic to cats, a reaction will occur at the site where the cat allergen is applied.

Blood Test:

If a skin test isn’t possible due to a skin condition or medication interactions, a blood test may be conducted. This test measures allergy-causing antibodies in your blood for various allergens like animal proteins. It can also help determine the severity of your sensitivity to a specific allergen.

Management and Treatment

The first step in managing pet allergies is minimizing exposure to the allergy-causing animal. Reducing contact with pet allergens can help lessen the frequency and severity of allergic reactions. However, eliminating exposure can be challenging since pet allergens can be carried on clothing and other surfaces.

Besides avoiding allergens, other treatment options include:

• Antihistamines: Helps reduce the release of histamine, an immune system chemical responsible for itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
• Corticosteroids (nasal sprays): Minimizes inflammation and manages hay fever symptoms.
• Decongestants: Help shrink enlarged nasal tissues to improve breathing.
• Leukotriene modifiers: Obstruct the activities of certain immune system chemicals.

Additional Treatments

• Immunotherapy: Helps “train” your immune system to tolerate allergens through allergy shots.
• Nasal irrigation: Uses a neti pot or squeeze bottle to flush mucus and allergens from your sinuses with a saline solution.

Prevention

The most effective method of preventing pet allergies is to stay away from animals that prompt allergic reactions. Taking antihistamines every day can also help manage symptoms and minimize allergic reactions.

If it’s impossible to avoid pets, these tips can be helpful:

• Avoid hugging, petting, and kissing pets.
• Frequently brush and bathe your pets. If possible, have someone without pet allergies to help brush and bathe them.
• Regularly vacuum carpets, rugs, and other surfaces.
• Filter the air in your house using a high-efficiency particulate (HEPA) air filter.

If your reactions are severe, you might want to consider finding your pet a new home.

Conclusion

Pet allergies tend to be annoying, particularly if you aren’t sure which animals are triggering your immune response. If you suspect you have pet allergies, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help identify if your symptoms are due to a common disorder or allergies to pets.

Additionally, you may be referred to an allergist who can pinpoint the specific animals responsible for your reactions and offer tailored solutions for managing your symptoms.