Do you want a pet but are allergic to them? Many people with pet allergies are distraught over the prospect of losing their furry buddies. However, there are ways to control these allergies while keeping your furry friends. 

Is It A Pet Allergy?

The first step in combating any allergy is determining the source. Rule out any other possible causes of your allergies, such as dust, pollen, food, medicine, and so on. Cats and dogs with thick, dense coats may hold environmental allergens in their hair. These allergens could be the ones triggering your allergic reaction instead.

Symptoms of Pet Allergies

• Itchy, red skin.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Coughing, sneezing, and wheezing.
• Rash across the face, neck, and upper chest.
• Eyes and nose swelling, itching, and/or running.
• Asthma flare-ups (if you have pre-existing asthma).

Why Do Pet Allergies Make You Sneeze?

If you have pet allergies, it would be ideal to understand what causes your allergies to flare up. The cause of the allergy is the protein found in pets’ saliva, urine, and excrement. These proteins may get onto their fur and skin and accelerate the spreading to humans, while dog dander usually linger for a shorter period of time.

These proteins can linger in your homes. Certain proteins linger longer than others, which is why some pets may affect you more than others. For instance, cat protein can stay up to four months in your home environment. They can get attached to couches, and any sort of cloth surfaces.

Tips for Living with Pets When You are Allergic

#1 Wash Yourself regularly

Cleaning your hands after giving your pet a good belly rub would prevent allergy flare-ups. It can protect you from accidentally rubbing the irritating, burning unpleasant things into your eyes. When you’re outside, pollen and dust settle on your hair, skin, and clothing. Wash yourself and your clothes on a regular basis to remove allergies.

#2 Invest in an Air Purifier

Anyone in your home that suffers from allergies or respiratory problems will benefit from an air purifier. To add on, you should consider purchasing a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier. HEPA filters are intended to remove airborne contaminants from your home’s air. Remember to clean the filter to keep your home’s air quality healthy for both you and your pets. Alternatively, you can change the purifier once in a while. 

#3 Ensure Cleanliness in Your Home

Keep your floors clean, especially in the bedroom. Ensuring cleanliness will significantly minimise dust, pollen, dander and other allergens. To add on, you should wash linens such as clothes and bedding regularly. 

Not sure which kind of house cleaning tools are suitable for you and your pet? aPetMart got you covered! Check out these house cleaning tools. 

#4 Set Boundaries

It is tempting to sleep on your bed with your pets. Despite that, allowing them to snuggle up on your pillow can cause spreading of pollen on your face. Dander will easily rub into your eyes, can be inhaled, and will wreak havoc on your system. Thus, you and your pet will have separate bedrooms. Be sure to wash their bedding on a regular basis as well.

Medical Treatment

Over-the-counter medications are another option for dealing with pet allergies. Nasal steroids are usually the first-line treatment for allergies. They assist with nasal congestion, leaking, and draining. 

Other than that, antihistamines are an option too. They are great for alleviating itching and sneezing. Similarly, allergy shots are another helpful option. However, these are not effective for everyone. 

Serious allergies could develop which can cause an increase in sinus infections. Moreover, it can aggravate asthma leading to additional upper respiratory infections. Therefore, if you have severe allergic reactions to pets, avoiding contact with any cats or dogs would be recommended.