11 ways to deal with a pet allergy if you love animals

10/4/2019

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animals Story: 11 ways to deal with a pet allergy if you love animals

You can have a happy, healthy life with your pets, even if you're allergic to them. Your allergy shouldn’t get in your way! Learn how to deal with allergies to pets in this article.

Having a pet means that you have someone who loves you without a reason. However, not all animal lovers can keep a pet because of their allergy. Allergies are exaggerated immune responses to substances that are generally not considered harmful. There are some ways to deal with a pet allergy. Actually, you'd be surprised to know how many people with allergies that aren't life-threatening are able to live happily with their pets.

#1 Understand your pet allergies

It is important to see a doctor and be tested to determine what allergies you actually have. You may find that you're allergic to something else and not your pet at all! If an allergy test shows that you are still allergic to your pet, it is important to understand what causes your allergic reaction to them. Allergens can be in saliva or an animal's dry skin (dander) and fur. The fur and dander then stick to walls, carpets and clothing.

#2 Create an "allergy-free" zone

It means that there should be a room in your home where the pet’s access is strictly prohibited. it's best if you choose your bedroom. Keep the door closed and use a high-efficiency HEPA air cleaner.

#3 Get rid of dander

Ask one of your friends without a pet allergy brush the pet outside to remove dander as well as clean the litter box or cage, or take your pet to the groomer.

#4 Bathe your pet on a weekly basis

It reduces the level of allergy-causing dander (shed old skin cells). Cats can get used to being bathed. However, choose products labeled for frequent use. Moreover, check with your vet for directions about safe bathing.

#5 Try treatments

Additional treatments for allergies to pets include allergy shots, steroidal and antihistamine nose sprays and antihistamine pills. It is important to find an allergist who understands your commitment to living with your pet.

#6 Prepare your apartment for a pet

Animal allergens are sticky. Try to keep surfaces throughout the home clean and uncluttered. If you must have carpet, select one with a low pile and steam clean it frequently. Better yet, use throw rugs and wash them in hot water.

#7 Choose special clothes for cuddling with your pet

Wear an old shirt or smock to play and cuddle with your pet, and then change clothes and wash your hands and face. That rinses off allergens that otherwise you carry with you.

#8 Keep your vents clean

Forced-air heating and air-conditioning can spread allergens through the house. Use a filter material like cheesecloth to cover bedroom vents.

#9 Use Allerpet

Allerpet can help by cleaning a pet's coat of dander and other allergens such as dried urine and saliva, common irritants that trigger human reactions. It should be applied to the animal's coat. Don’t worry, it does not harm the pet or leave a residue on furniture or clothing.

#10 Try salt lamps

The idea is that the light bulb heats the salt so that negative ions are released into the air. The negative ions knock particulate matter like dust and other airborne substances to the floor so only clean air is at nose-level.

#11 Keep allergy medication oh hand

Keep a non-drowsy antihistamine readily available to help manage your worst symptoms.

Do you have a pet allergy? Share your useful tips in the comments below!

Share this article with your allergic friends!

#animals #health

What are your thoughts on this subject?

9 Comments

Linda Spreng

No pet allergies, thank goodness. I must have a pet near me at all times!

Don Racette

Phyllis Scarlett Pets are better than humans.

Susan Golebiewski

Being exposed to pets can lessen an allergy over time.

Carol Moore

Susan Golebiewski, that’s exactly what I did. As an animal living child, I was always around furry animals and fought allergy symptoms. I am now 69 years old and can cuddle cats, dogs, horses with no ill effects.

terribokor

Good information I two cats I only have problems with them when they scratch me which is not too often

Ruthanne Nicholls

Great information

juliejamron

no trying salt lamps, they are very dangerous to pets, especially cats. They can kill them

Connie Broussard Richard

I was allergic to dogs and I did not have a dog. Took allergy shots and the dog allergy went away. Then I got a cat and found out I was allergic to cats. I took allergy shots for cats and my cat allergy went away. I love modern medicine.

Gina

No one pet is the same - so it is with allergies. We have had several cats inside and my son would be allergic to just one cat's dander. So, it depends on the individual pet's dander.