Pet allergies are the most common among pet owners. Except for cats and dogs, most pets do not face any harm; they have been owned worldwide. Many pet parents believe that this pet can quickly infect a newborn child. Hence, they keep their newborn child away from their pets. However, this is only a myth. We have posted a blog about how pets help in a child's development. Almost 60% of Indian households own a pet; among them, allergies to dogs and cats affect 10%–20% of the population worldwide and are a growing public health concern as these rates increase.
You're probably already aware that any animal with fur or hair can trigger an allergic reaction if you're allergic to your pet. Pet allergies cause your immune system to react to ordinarily harmless animal substances. While your pet can bring new, joyful energy into your life, they can also make it difficult to, well, breathe. There has to be a way to avoid being bombarded with allergy symptoms every time you snuggle up next to your best friend.
What are the symptoms of pet allergies?
People allergic to dogs may develop a rash, hives, or watery eyes when exposed to dog saliva or dander. In many cases, dog allergy symptoms are mild, and a person may be able to live with a dog if they can manage their symptoms. Some home remedies can help alleviate symptoms.
However, avoiding dog exposure is the only truly effective way to eliminate dog allergies. For people with low sensitivity, symptoms may not appear for several days after exposure. You may be allergic to dogs if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Swelling and itching around the eyes and nasal membranes
- Coughing, shortness of breath,
- or wheezing within 15 to 30 minutes of allergen exposure
- redness of the skin after being licked by a dog
- A rash on the face, neck, or chest characterises a severe asthma attack
Children who are allergic to dogs frequently develop eczema in addition to the symptoms listed above. It was once thought that exposing a newborn to a family dog could cause a child to develop a pet allergy. Fortunately, the opposite is true. Several recent studies have found that exposing a baby to a pet does not increase the risk of allergies or asthma. It may prevent the child from developing them later in life.
The severity of cat allergy symptoms varies according to an individual's sensitivity and exposure to allergens. These factors may also influence how quickly symptoms develop following exposure. Compassionate people can experience symptoms such as breathing difficulties or a rash within minutes of touching a cat or entering a house with a cat. Among the symptoms of a cat allergy are the following:
- Sneezing, as well as a runny or stuffy nose
- Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing
- Eyes that are watery, red, or itchy
How to prevent yourself from pet allergies?
Thinking of ways to minimize pet allergy symptoms? If you are allergic to your pet, there are many ways to reduce indoor allergens and allergy symptoms so you and your pet can live more comfortably together. There are also some home remedies for pet allergies. If your family member's allergies are causing discomfort but are not life-threatening, follow these seven steps to alleviate symptoms:
1. Make an "allergy-free" zone in your home, preferably in the allergic person's bedroom, and keep the pet out of it. Use a high-efficiency HEPA air cleaner, and consider using impermeable mattress and pillow covers. It will help with pet allergy relief.
2. Avoid furnishings that attract dust and dander, such as cloth curtains, blinds, and carpeted floors. Wash articles such as couch covers, pillows, curtains, and pet beds regularly and thoroughly to remove dust and dander.
3. Bathe your pet once a week to reduce allergy-causing dander (old skin cells). Cats can become accustomed to bathing, but only use products labeled for them; kittens may require a kitten-safe shampoo.
4. For safe bathing, consult your veterinarian's staff or a good pet care book. Using a shampoo recommended by your veterinarian or another animal care professional is a good idea.
5. Don't conclude that the family pet causes allergies. Request a test for allergies to pet dander from your allergist. Many allergy sufferers are allergic to multiple allergens. Reduce the allergen level in your environment by addressing all of the causes, not just the pet allergy.
6. Brushing is essential for allergy relief. Weekly brushing is part of providing the best dog care. Because it prevents loose hair from entering the air, this will be extremely beneficial in reducing allergic reactions.
7. Finding an allergist who understands your desire to live with your pet is critical. A combination of approaches—medical symptom control, suitable housekeeping techniques, and immunotherapy—is most likely to allow an allergic person to live with pets.
Final Thoughts:
Environmental allergies can be managed but not cured, so bring your pet for regular check-ups to see how he responds to treatment and adjust it as needed to keep him as comfortable as possible. Allergies affect all breeds, and symptoms usually appear after a cat or dog reaches the age of six months. A physical examination by a veterinarian may reveal the source of your pet's allergic reaction. Otherwise, they will most likely recommend a skin or blood test and a specific elimination diet to determine what is causing the reaction.
I recommend taking them for a check-up, as we are here to help you. You can check out our website if you want help for your pet. Mr n Mrs Pet offers quality KCI-registered pets and all the pet-related services at your doorstep. From dog training to Pet grooming and Dog walking and boarding services near you, along with all the pet supplies.