Dog & Cat Allergies: Understand and Manage Pet Allergies

dog is sitting on the couch with its owner

Our beloved pets bring happiness and joy into our lives. From going on walks together, lounging on the couch, or playing tug-of-war with plenty of toys, we love our pets unconditionally. However, with every 7 to 10 households in the United States having a pet, up to 30% of people nationally have an allergy to dogs and cats.

(Image Source: https://www.scripps.org/news_items/7021-how-are-pets-good-for-your-health)

What Causes Pet Allergies?

Besides cats and dogs, other types of pets (even birds!) can cause allergic reactions. While many believe that pet hair, fur, or feathers by themselves cause allergic reactions, this is not the case. Instead, the body’s immune system reacts to a protein found in a pet’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine. Hair, fur, and feathers collect this dander, leading to allergic reactions when people come into contact with them.

What are the symptoms of being allergic to pets?

Pet allergy symptoms mimic those of outdoor and indoor allergy reactions. Some of the more common symptoms include:

Sneezing
Itching
Coughing
Hives
Runny Nose
Watery Eyes

Depending on how severe a pet allergy is, those with mild allergies may not experience reactions until a few hours or days after coming into contact with a pet. For those with more severe allergies, symptoms may occur minutes after interacting with a pet.

Image source: New York Allergies and Sinus Centers (https://www.nyallergy.com/animal-and-pet-allergies/)

How Can You Manage these Allergy Symptoms?

Even if these symptoms are uncomfortable, those affected can still keep their beloved pets! Thanks to modern medicine and technological innovations, you can easily manage your allergies.

1. Maintain a clean environment

Pet dander can accumulate on any surface in your home. Therefore, it’s imperative to keep areas around your home clean. Dusting regularly, vacuuming soft areas such as sofas, and washing pet toys can help reduce the accumulation of pet dander.

2. Groom your pet regularly

Grooming your pet not only helps them look good and feel more comfortable, but it can also help get rid of pet dander. While the frequency at which you bathe and brush your pet will differ depending on the type of animal and breed, bathing your pet can direct fur into your drain instead of in the air.

3. Invest in an air purifier

Air purifiers are designed to filter the air around you, cleaning bacteria, particles, and pollution to help you breathe in crisper, cleaner air. As pet dander can collect on anything around your home, investing in a quality air purifier can help alleviate some of your pet allergy symptoms.

Airdog’s Solution to the Problem

Airdog can help you alleviate your allergy symptoms with ease! Airdog’s newest product, the Pet Air Purifier, is your solution to helping you and your pet breathe fresher, cleaner air. Utilizing reimagined Two-Pole Active (TPA) Technology, the Pet Air Purifier filters smelly odors, dander, dust, bacteria and viruses, and allergens and irritants effectively and precisely. With a washable, reusable filter, ultra-quiet design, and a pet plate for your furry friends to relax on, the Pet Air Purifier is designed with the whole family in mind.

Living with these symptoms can be challenging, but that doesn’t mean you must imagine a life without your beloved pets. By learning about what causes it, identifying some common allergy symptoms, and taking steps to manage them, alleviating the symptoms and creating a happy home for you and your pets.