Animal Allergies

Allergy symptoms like itchy eyes or difficulty breathing can be cause bay an animal especially if it is a pet. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, approximately 60 million people suffer from allergies. Up to 30% of these people suffer from reactions to cats and dogs.

An allergic reaction is caused by protein particles generally found in pollen, food and dander. These particles are ingested, injected or absorbed through the skin. Although many allergies are inherited, some can be developed through repeated exposure to a substance.

Allergic reactions are commonly a stuffy nose, red, itchy eyes, coughing, sneezing, shortness of breath, breathing difficulties and rashes and swelling. A more serious reaction is anaphylactic shock causing dizziness and unconsciousness which can result in heart failure and death.

Animal allergies are usually caused by saliva, urine and skin secretions. A dog produces a substance which helps maintain a healthy coat. When this substance dries, it causes dander. A cat is constantly licking and cleaning itself. Its saliva contains Fel D1, a protein that can cause an allergic reaction. Other animals have allergy producing substances.

There are several options to minimize or eliminate the effect of allergies created by animals especially pets. Do not allow a pet in the bedroom. Use HEPA air filters and purifiers to maintain a clean air environment. Frequent bathing an brushing of the animal to minimize the allergen. The hypoallergenic breed of cat which has lowers levels of Fel D1 has been helpful in reducing cat allergies.

Medications such as nose sprays and pills are also available to treat allergy symptoms. Antihistamines such as Allergra and Claritin suppresses the immune system chemical that is activated in an allergic reaction. Cortiosteroids such as Nasonex is a nose spray that reduces inflammation. Decongestants shrink swollen nasal passages. Cromolyn sodium and leukotriene modifiers prevent the release of the immune system chemical. Rinsing the nasal passages with salt water can also be very effective. When these treatments do not work, immunotherapy, a series of shots containing small doses of the allergen, can be used to eliminate the allergic reaction. A doctor can best determine the appropriate treatment.