If you're like me and allergic to some animals, you know all about how much of a pain it can be. Here are some of the things that I've found to work really well in managing my allergy. Keep Away from Animals
Animals, including cats, dogs and horses can cause real problems for allergy sufferers. Both their hair and their saliva can trigger an allergic reaction, as can flakes of dead skin and faeces. People with severe allergies obviously should not keep animals in the house and might need to avoid them altogether.
Cats Are the Worst Culprits
Some people are allergic to animals and should never go near them. Cats cause most problems: more than 40% of asthma sufferers react to them. Most allergenic substances produced by cats are found in their saliva, their sebum and the fluid secreted by their eyes. These are deposited on the third when the Itself; they then try and become airborne, which is when the problems start. Dogs and horses cause fewer allergies, although their allergens are of the same kind. Reactions to birds are generally caused by mould that forms at the bottom of their cages and on their feathers.
Useful Precautions
If certain animals cause you to have violent reactions, the most obvious answer is not to keep them as pets. However, if you don't want to deprive the whole household of its favorite pet, you need to take precautions.
Don't let the animal go into your bedroom and certainly don't allow it on your bed. Wash your pet at least once a week (this applies even to cats). Install air purifiers with fine, delicate filters to reduce the number of allergens in the air. If you keep birds or fish, always make sure that their cage or tank is scrupulously clean. In particular, stop bird cages from becoming damp. As far as possible, avoid furniture and furnishings were allergens can take up residence, such as armchairs with cloth coverings, carpets and wall-hangings. Instead, choose dry, hard coverings like parquet, vinyl and leather (for armchairs and sofas).
Did You Know
An American company claims to have produced genetically modified cats, which have fewer allergens and don't cause allergic reactions. They will soon be available in pet stores.
Without going to such lengths, it's useful to know that the neutered cat produces five times fewer allergens than an uncastrated one.
Remember the animal does not have to be physically present to cause problems. Its shed skin and hairs cause the problems.
In summary;
* Pets can cause allergic reactions.
* The simplest answer is to ban all pets from the home. If that's not possible, make sure your pet doesn't get into your bedroom.
* Wash the animal at least once a week and avoid furniture and furnishings that provide sanctuary for allergens.
