Pet Allergy

A Pet Allergy, particularly to cats, dogs & birds, is a common cause of allergic disease, including reactions that trigger asthma attacks and hay fever.

Cat Allergy

The main source of cat allergen are glands in the cat's skin. This pet allergen that is secreted by the glands is spread by Cats rubbing against surfaces in the house. This allergic substance is sticky and attaches to hairs, dust, fabrics and practically any surface. Cats licking themselves will spread the allergen (in the form of an aerosol) and to all parts of the home. All cats have these glands; all cat breeds can cause a pet allergy.

If the pet is removed, cat allergen can remain within the home for over 5 months and in the cat's bedding for over 3 years! This animal allergen is so effectively spread that it can be found in the houses of non-pet owners and on clothing of acquaintances that don't have pets. Cat allergen has been detected in the Antarctic and cats have never been there!

Cat allergies is a common cause of allergic reaction - most commonly setting off a Asthma attack or a Hay Fever bout.  You don't need to own a cat to develop a animal allergy.

Dog Allergy

Saliva is the main source of allergen in dogs. Dander (skin particles that have shed) and hair is a secondary source of dog allergens. Dog saliva, dander & hair all act to spread the dog allergen. All types of dog can cause dog allergies, although some may not shed as much hair and dander (that would spread the dog allergen) as others breeds. "Woolly" breeds such as the Poodle does not shed as much hair, but still may carry a animal allergen that can trigger an allergic disease.

A Pet allergy triggered by dog & cat allergens can be reduced by washing the animal weekly. Restricting access to carpeted and sleeping areas of the house. If suffering pet allergy, keeping the animals in areas with tiled or hard floors that are washed regularly may also help.

Continued exposure to Pet Allergens will not reduce a person's allergic reactions to dog allergies or cat allergies. It may make any allergic reaction far worse than it should be.