Do I Have A Pet Allergy?

Do your symptoms appear when you are near animals or soon after (within minutes to hours)?

Do you sneeze?

Do you have a runny or stuffy nose?

Do you have a skin rash or hives?

Do you have itchy, red or watery eyes?

Do you have facial pressure and pain?

Do you have itchy nose, roof of your mouth or throat?

Do you have a scratchy throat or mouth?

Do you cough?

Do you have difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or wheezing?

Do you have swollen, blue-colored skin under your eyes?

If you have asthma, do your symptoms worsen after you have been in contact with animals?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have a pet allergy. At the moment, about 62 percent of households in America have pets and about 10 million people are allergic to their pets. Pet allergy is an allergic reaction to furry animals, in which your immune system overacts to certain proteins found in animal dander (dried flakes of skin), saliva and urine. There are no “hypoallergenic breeds” of pets, and the allergic reaction is not related to the length of the pet’s hair or fur, nor to the amount of shedding. Also, some people are allergic only to a specific type of animal.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have a pet allergy. The most common types of pet allergies are cat and dog allergies. Other furry animals, such as rodents and rabbits, can also cause an allergic reaction. Your immune system mistakenly recognizes certain proteins (allergens) in your pet's saliva, dander, and urine as harmful substances, leading to an allergic reaction or worsening of asthma symptoms in people with asthma. Your pets may also carry other allergens on their hair, such as dust and pollen. Symptoms commonly include runny nose, sneezing and itchy skin. A diagnosis is based on allergy skin test and blood tests.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have a pet allergy. Pet allergy refers to an allergic reaction to certain proteins found in your pet's dander, saliva or urine. Pet allergens can be found everywhere. They can be transferred to the air when animals are petted. Also, people can have pet allergens on their clothes and spread them in homes and other places where pets have never been housed. The only sure way to treat pet allergies is to avoid animals that cause allergic reactions. Your doctor may recommend antihistamines to control your allergy symptoms. Immunotherapy is also an effective treatment option.