Some pets bring about some allergies. Some people suffer from these allergies because of their pets. Here are some facts, figures and commentaries you need to consider when you have to take allergy relief steps.
Individuals with allergies and allergy-induced asthma are allergic to more than one allergen (substances triggering the body’s reaction). Other allergens include mold, mildew, pollen, dust and dust mites, plants, foods, cosmetics.
Allergy sufferers can have varying degrees of sensitivity to different allergens. Whether someone displays symptoms depends on how many of the offending allergens are in the environment at the same time; in combination, they can exceed the individual’s allergy threshold, triggering allergic reactions.
It’s easy for doctors to make the generic, age-old recommendation to “get rid of pets.” However, even when it’s certain that a person is allergic to dog or cat dander, saliva and urine, it’s wrong to assume that eliminating an animal will free the person from future symptoms.
Clearly, it’s important to be aware of all of the individual’s allergy triggers and take steps to minimize exposure. Other measures should be tried before giving up a family pet.
Many families have described the sad experience of giving up a pet on the recommendation of a physician, only to find out that the child (or other family member) still experiences allergic reactions. They wish they had first tried other measures to manage the family member’s allergy.
While there are some situations in which the allergic person suffers such severe symptoms that rehoming the pet is among the steps necessary, in more cases, the allergy sufferer and pet can coexist comfortably in the same household by taking sensible, practical measures.
In recent years, science has advanced the understanding and management of allergies and asthma, enabling most families to keep pets in the home. Successful management combines good hygiene, diligent cleaning, air quality management, sensible pet handling, and prudent use of safe, effective medications.
Find an allergy specialist who understands your commitment to living with your pet. Your specialist will develop a plan to help manage the allergy/asthma and prevent allergic episodes.
Regardless of exposure to animals, a good allergy management plan includes prescription medications. Great strides have been made in allergy and asthma medicines in recent years, so be sure to consult with an allergy/asthma specialist.
Medical treatments for pet allergy symptoms include steroid and antihistamine nose sprays and pills. Asthma management typically involves a combination of preventive and symptom control medications, often in inhaler form.
Allergy sufferers should always keep their medications on hand and make sure to refill prescriptions before the expiration dates. Don’t wait for symptoms to get out of hand. Use medications as prescribed to prevent the onset of problems, from sneezing, coughing and other respiratory symptoms to the airway constriction associated with asthma.
Reactions to airborne allergens tend to peak between 4 a.m. to 10 a.m., so it’s advisable to take medications before bedtime.
Giving up a pet without making a committed effort to first try other measures teaches children that pets are disposable. It also sends messages of helplessness and that there’s only one way to solve a problem.
And all too often, giving up the pet does not solve the allergy problem. Particularly when the allergic symptoms persist, the child shares a feeling of failure. If the child shared a bond with the animal, the loss will also serve as an unhappy life-lesson. Parting with a beloved animal companion is an emotionally wrenching experience.

Cats!
No, I’m not talking about the play – but I’m sure one way or another you’ve encountered these felines. Whether you’re a lover or a hater of these animals- you can’t discount the fact that yes! You may be allergic to them!
Contrary to popular belief, cat hair itself is not allergenic. The primary offender is a protein (Fel d 1) found in the saliva and skin of all cats. However, some of this protein is transferred to the hair as the cat grooms itself, and hair floating in the air can irritate the respiratory tract of individuals with asthma and other airway diseases.
Also, other substances that you may be allergic to, such as pollen, dust and mites, may cling to your cat’s hair, especially if the cat goes outdoors.
If you own a cat, and if you’re allergic to them, and you don’t want to give them up, here are some strategies which may help reduce your symptoms.
If you plan to add a cat to your household, choose a female – they produce only two thirds of the allergens as compared to that of male cats. If you have a male cat, neuter him. This will decrease the level of Fel d 1 (the allergy bringer) on the skin as this allergen is under hormonal control of testosterone in male cats.
Bathe your cat in warm water once a week. Try using a cream rinse or spray-on coat treatment. If your cat hates the water, try introducing him to bathing gradually over time. Put him in the tub or sink and begin with the tail or a paw.
Next week add another paw, etc. Do not yell at or spank him. Feeding a favorite treat while in the water works for some cats. If you can get your cat to associate bathing with something he already expects and tolerates, or even likes, bathing him will be less traumatic.
Try establishing a ritual of playing and grooming, combined with treats. Some cats accept blow drying as part of the bathing process, while others hate the sound of the blower motor. Most cats, on the other hand, enjoy being dried with soft fluffy towels and being combed and petted afterwards. If you find that you can’t personally bathe your cat, take him to a professional groomer.
Have someone (other than the allergy sufferer) brush and comb the cat outdoors or in an area where the air is vented to the outdoors regularly to remove hair and dander.
Spending part of the day in an allergen-free zone may allow you the relief you need to see you through the balance of the day.
If your cat has any condition that causes dry, scaly skin or excessive scratching or licking, try to find an effective remedy. Try to keep your cat free of parasites, such as fleas or worms, which can cause itchy or dry skin. Feed a good quality food. Some poor quality foods may contribute to the problem.
Consider using a damp mop instead of a vacuum. The exhaust of most vacuum cleaners stirs up particles of cat allergen to such an extent that the allergy suffer will often be more rather than less symptomatic after the house has been vacuumed.
If you must vacuum, check a consumer’s publication to find which models are highly rated for filtration of allergens. Use a high efficiency micro-filter cleaner. If possible, leave the vacuuming to another family member while you go out and stay away long enough for the dust to settle.
Eliminate other allergens. You may be allergic to substances other than Fel d 1. The only way to tell for sure is to be tested by an allergist. Take steps to eliminate these other allergens in your home also.
Here’s to enjoying your cat and not getting hives all the time!