Steps to Take for Those with Pet Allergies
Pets can be great additions to the family, but how about if you are allergic to them? There are some steps that you can take, though ideally it would involve getting a pet that doesn’t produce such reactions. Follow along for some guidance in this discussion.
Your Best Bets
If you are allergic to pets, experts recommend you only keep those that don’t have hair or fur, shed dander, or produce body waste that can create allergic problems.
Image by mcfarlandmo
An example of a low-allergen pet would be tropical fish. There are some tricky misconceptions to learn about with pet allergies; for instance, many people believe that shorthaired pets case fewer problems. However, allergens are located on the dander, and not the hair. Don’t simply choose pets with less hair; that won’t necessarily work.
Helpful Tips
What if you live with a pet that makes you allergic? You may have some options. Unfortunately, avoiding the pet is often best. If that isn’t an option for you and your companion animal, you can make sure that you spend some time away from the pet. For instance, you could make sure that the pet does not enter your bedroom; this will at least allow you to have clean air when you are sleeping.
Sometimes you might be able to get away with medications to simply reduce the allergy symptoms you suffer, if you aren’t severely affected by pet allergens. You would do well to speak to your doctor or an allergy specialist about some medication options that may help.
Otherwise, you should do a number of things to minimise the allergens in your home:
- Bathe your pet frequently
- Use an air filter
- Replace carpeted flooring with harder alternatives (tile, wood, linoleum, vinyl; they don’t harbor pet allergens)
- Replace soft furnishings with low-allergy alternatives if possible
- Keep the pet outside, if appropriate
- Have someone else clean the litter box, cage, or kennel
When to Call the Doctor
If you don’t like the thought of giving up your pet, perhaps the best thing to do is to see what the doctor thinks of your allergies. This will help you gain an understanding of how severely you are affected. Perhaps if your allergies aren’t that bad, you could find some medication that will allow you to be around the pet without too much trouble. For others who suffer acute allergic reactions, it might be that you’re obliged to consider living without your pet at home; your doctor will be able to help you decide what to do.
Pet Allergies Overview
Make sure you practice the various ways to help eliminate allergens. Using a filter, keeping your home clean, and bathing your pet regularly can go a long way to helping your condition, allowing you to enjoy your time with your pet.
While not having the pet around may be the best choice in severe cases of pet allergy, you should obtain medical advice to see where you stand. There are plenty of ways that you can tackle this unfortunate problem, and hopefully be around your pet without discomfort.
Related posts:
- Meeting Your Future Pet: A Good Fit with the Family
- Your Pet’s Longevity: Healthy Creations
- Meeting Your Future Pet: Health and Pet Insurance
- Your Pet’s Grooming Needs
- Preventative Care: Keeping Veterinary Costs Low for Your Cat
This article is opinion only and should not be taken as financial advice.
Filed Under: Pet Insurance
