Pet Allergies
About pet allergy
The pet population in the UK is estimated at 20 million pets owned (excluding fish), this equates to one in every 2 households having a pet.
Unfortunately allergies to pets with fur/hair are common, especially among people who have other allergies or asthma. It is not the hair or fur however that causes the allergic symptoms, but the proteins from the dead skin scales, salvia or urine. Contrary to popular belief a truly hypoallergenic pet does not exist.
How do I know if I’m allergic to pets?
Pet allergy causes symptoms similar to hay fever. It may not be immediately obvious that you are allergic as cat and dog allergens are everywhere. Pet allergens are in homes and public places where pets are not allowed. This is because people carry pet allergen around on their clothing.
If you are exposed to an animal on a long-term basis you may have chronic symptoms such as nasal congestion or asthma and not the sudden symptoms seen with short-term exposure, making it seem as though the pet is not causing the problem.
List of pet allergy symptoms
- Sneezing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Facial pain (from nasal congestion)
- Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing
- Watery, red or itchy eyes
- Skin rash
How can I reduce my exposure?
The best treatment is avoidance. Try to avoid contact with cats, dogs, horse etc. Avoid visiting homes which you know have pets. If you have a pet and are unable or un- willing to re-home it the following may help to reduce your symptoms;
- Restrict your pet to one room or keep out doors
- Never let your pet in your bedroom
- Wash your pet 1 -2 times per week
- Don’t pet, hug or kiss the pet, if you do wash hands and face with soap and water and change clothing.
- Ask someone else to groom the pet outdoors
- Remove carpet and soft furnishing
- Avoid drying wet or damp clothes inside especially in the bedroom.
What treatment is available?
Treatment varies depending on your severity of symptoms. Anti allergic medication such as antihistamine tablets and/or nasal sprays can be used to treat the symptoms of pet allergy. Discuss your medication with your doctor.
What if I am unable to avoid pets?
If you are unable to avoid animals/pets because you are exposed to them during the course of your working day you may be suitable of allergen immunotherapy. Please discuss this with your doctor, as you will need to be referred to a specialist allergy clinic for further assessment.
What is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is suitable for people who cannot control their allergy symptoms using anti allergic medication. It works by stimulating a protective immune response in the body that should reduce or even prevent allergic symptoms to a particular allergen, such as House Dust Mites. It requires repeated administration of a small amount of allergen extract to reduce symptoms and the need for rescue medication.
Immunotherapy may be given by subcutaneous injections or sublingually (drops/tablet under the tongue) for a period of 3 -5 years.