Our beloved household pets are one of the most common sources of allergic conditions. Many people think that pet allergies are triggered by the fur of cats and dogs, but, researchers have found that the major allergens are proteins secreted by oil glands in the animals skin and shed in dander, along with proteins in saliva, which stick to the fur when the animal licks itself. Pet urine is also a major source of allergy-causing proteins.
Cats are more likely than dogs to cause allergic reactions in humans. They lick themselves more frequently and are more often held than dogs. They also tend to spend more time indoors than dogs. Consider the following:
- Vacuum frequently (did I mention that already?)
- Wash hands after handling pets and wear a dust mask when changing a litter box.
- Have a non-allergic family member brush pets outdoors frequently.
- Bathe pets weekly, to keep dander from accumulating.
- Keep pets off of furniture.
- Keep pets out of the bedroom.
- Call us to treat urine-damaged areas.
