Pet Allergies

An estimated 10 million people have cat allergies, the most common pet allergy, and another 5 million have dog allergies.

39% of U.S. households have one or more dogs
36% of U.S. households have one or more cats
100% of all U.S. households have detectable levels of dog and cat dander

Yet Americans love, love, love their pets. The total pet population in the U.S. is more than 100 million, or about four pets for every 10 people.

It’s not uncommon for people to be allergic to their pets and not even realize it. After all, it’s easy to dismiss congestion as a cold that just lingers or attribute it to other allergies you might have. Allergies may not present for several days after contact with the animal. Even frequent dusting and vacuuming doesn’t always help, as pet dander can linger for months in carpets, clothing and upholstery.

Causes of pet allergies

A pet allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to the proteins in animals. The reaction triggers inflammation in the lining of your nasal passages (allergic rhinitis), causing sneezing, runny nose and other signs and symptoms usually associated with hay fever. Pet allergies may be the primary cause of asthma, resulting in wheezing, shortness of breath difficulty breathing.

Even if you are allergic to one type of pet, you may be able to find one that causes less or no symptoms. Different species have different proteins in their skin, you will react to some and not others. Typically, poodles and breeds such as Havenese are less allergenic than others. Learn more about how to treat pet allergies

If you suffer with pet allergies, we can help. Contact us today and get relief.