Pet Allergy: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Do you love your pet, but your allergy stops you from fully enjoying them? Animal hair allergy is one of the most common allergic reactions, especially in people who have frequent contact with pets such as dogs or cats. However, it is not the hair itself that causes the allergy, but a protein found in the animals' skin, saliva and urine. This protein spreads through the air via hair and dander particles, and when they are inhaled or come into direct contact with the skin, some people develop allergic symptoms.

Causes of dog and cat allergy

Contrary to popular belief, the main cause of pet allergy is not the hair itself, but other substances produced by the animals. In the case of cats and dogs, their allergens are found in the animals' skin cells, as well as in their saliva, urine, sweat and coat:

• Dander: Dander particles contain allergens formed in the secretions of the sebaceous and salivary glands. Cat dander allergy and dog dander allergy are very common.
• Saliva: Saliva can also spread allergenic particles into the air, mainly when the animal grooms itself or licks itself, depositing these allergenic proteins onto its coat.
• Sebaceous glands: produce secretions that contain allergens.
• Urine: Also contains proteins that can trigger allergic reactions.

Hair and dander act as carriers that transport and spread allergens around the environment. In the case of dander, this is a very specific issue, as it can remain in the air for long periods with the slightest air circulation.

Symptoms of pet allergy

Cat and dog allergy symptoms can vary, although they generally include:

• Frequent sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Red, watery or itchy eyes.
• Coughing.
• Breathing difficulties or asthma.
• Skin rashes or itchy skin.

These symptoms can vary in intensity depending on each person's sensitivity and the length of exposure to the allergens. In more serious cases, exposure to these allergens can trigger more intense allergic reactions.

Diagnosis: How can I tell if I am allergic to my dog or cat?

It is important to consult an allergy specialist if you suspect you have an allergy to dogs or cats. They will take a detailed medical history, carry out skin tests or request a blood test (such as the RAST test, a procedure used to measure the levels of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which indicate allergies).

Is it possible to suddenly become allergic to your pet?

Yes, it is possible to suddenly develop a cat or dog allergy, even if you have lived with them for a long time without any problems. This is because some people's immune system can develop a sensitivity to allergenic proteins over time, especially in people with a genetic predisposition to allergies, such as those with atopic dermatitis or respiratory pollen allergy. In some cases, it may even appear after spending some time away from the animal, which is common in atopic patients who are already sensitised.

How can you deal with pet hair allergy?

To reduce the effects of the allergy, some recommendations are:

• Clean your home frequently to reduce animal dander. To do this, it is recommended to remove dust from furniture with a duster and vacuum regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Avoid letting animals into certain areas, such as the bedroom, to help ensure proper rest.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters.
• Bathe and brush pets regularly to reduce the amount of hair and dander they release.

Treatments for cat and dog allergy

Once the allergy has been diagnosed, the prescribed treatment may include the following:

• Antihistamine medicines or treatment from a specialist doctor if symptoms are severe. In the most serious cases, immunotherapy may be considered.
• As every little helps, we recommend Vetriderm, a product you can apply to your pet that will help reduce symptoms.

Remember that if you suspect you have a dog or cat allergy, the best thing to do is see an allergy specialist for a proper diagnosis. Do you have any pets, or have you noticed allergic reactions to any of them?