Alergia na zwierzęta domowe

Alergia na zwierzęta domowe
Epidemiologia

Alergia na zwierzęta domowe dotyka 10-20% populacji światowej, a w USA nawet około 30%, z alergiami na koty występującymi dwukrotnie częściej niż na psy. U osób z astmą, 20-30% ma alergię na psy lub koty, a 30% przypadków astmy przypisuje się alergii na koty. Szczególnie narażone są osoby z zawodowym kontaktem ze zwierzętami, gdzie częstość alergii sięga 10-50%, a astma zawodowa dotyka około 10%. Wzrost częstości alergii na zwierzęta odnotowano w okresie pandemii COVID-19, z istotnym wzrostem uczuleń na koty (5,7% vs 4,1%, p < 0,05) i psy (5,2% vs 1,7%, p < 0,05). Diagnostyka opiera się na testach skórnych, oznaczeniu specyficznych IgE oraz wywiadzie, przy czym alergia na psy jest diagnostycznie bardziej złożona. Alergeny zwierząt są powszechne w środowisku, utrzymują się do 6 miesięcy po usunięciu zwierzęcia i mogą być przenoszone na odzieży, co utrudnia całkowite unikanie ekspozycji.

Epidemiologia alergii na zwierzęta domowe

Alergia na zwierzęta domowe stanowi istotny problem zdrowotny, dotykający znaczącą część populacji na całym świecie. Zgodnie z najnowszymi danymi epidemiologicznymi, około 10-20% światowej populacji cierpi z powodu alergii na psy i/lub koty ¹². W Stanach Zjednoczonych wskaźnik ten jest jeszcze wyższy – szacuje się, że około 30% populacji doświadcza reakcji alergicznych na koty i psy ¹². Warto podkreślić, że alergie na koty są około dwukrotnie częstsze niż alergie na psy ¹².

Badania wskazują również, że uczulenie na zwierzęta domowe występuje częściej u osób, które mają już zdiagnozowane inne alergie lub astmę. Zgodnie z danymi National Institutes of Health, aż 30% wszystkich przypadków astmy można przypisać alergii na koty ¹. Ponadto, między 20% a 30% osób z astmą ma również alergię na psy lub koty ¹.

Występowanie w grupach zawodowych

Szczególnie narażone na rozwój alergii na zwierzęta są osoby mające zawodowy kontakt ze zwierzętami. Według różnych badań, częstość występowania alergii wśród osób zajmujących się zwierzętami może wynosić od 10% do nawet 30% ¹. W przypadku personelu laboratoryjnego pracującego ze zwierzętami doświadczalnymi, tzw. alergia na zwierzęta laboratoryjne (LAA) dotyka 10-50% osób narażonych na kontakt z alergenami tych zwierząt ¹.

Dane z National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) wskazują, że około 33% osób zajmujących się zawodowo zwierzętami ma objawy alergiczne, a około 10% cierpi na astmę wywołaną kontaktem ze zwierzętami ¹. Warto zaznaczyć, że osoba, która staje się uczulona na jeden gatunek zwierząt, może również reagować na inne gatunki ¹.

Trendy w występowaniu alergii na zwierzęta

Obserwuje się wzrastającą częstość występowania alergii na zwierzęta domowe w ostatnich latach ¹. Szczególnie interesujące są dane z okresu pandemii COVID-19, które wskazują na znaczący wzrost występowania uczuleń na koty i psy. Badania wykazały, że w porównaniu z okresem przed pandemią, pacjenci zgłaszający się w czasie pandemii mieli wyższe wskaźniki uczulenia na koty (5,7% vs 4,1%, p < 0,05) i psy (5,2% vs 1,7%, p < 0,05) ¹. Wzrost ten przypisuje się zwiększonej ekspozycji na alergeny zwierząt domowych, zarówno bezpośrednio, jak i pośrednio, co doprowadziło do uczulenia większej liczby osób ¹.

Podobne trendy obserwuje się również u zwierząt domowych. Według raportu State of Pet Health z 2018 roku, w ciągu ostatnich 10 lat odnotowano wzrost alergii na pchły u psów o 12,5% i kotów o 67,3%, a także wzrost alergii środowiskowych – u psów o 30,7% i u kotów o 11,5% ¹.

Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje

Wśród czynników ryzyka rozwoju alergii na zwierzęta domowe, najważniejszą rolę odgrywa predyspozycja genetyczna. Osoby, których rodzice biologiczni mają alergię na zwierzęta, są bardziej narażone na rozwój takiej alergii ¹². Alergie na zwierzęta są częstsze u osób, które już cierpią na inne alergie lub astmę ¹².

Interesujące jest to, że alergia na zwierzęta może rozwinąć się w każdym wieku, nawet u osób, które wcześniej nie wykazywały objawów alergicznych po kontakcie z danym zwierzęciem ¹. Zjawisko to jest szczególnie zauważalne u młodych dorosłych, którzy po dłuższym okresie nieobecności w domu (np. studenci wracający z uczelni na wakacje) nagle doświadczają nasilonych objawów alergicznych po kontakcie ze swoim zwierzęciem domowym ¹.

Co ciekawe, osoby uczulone na jeden gatunek zwierząt mają zwiększone ryzyko rozwoju alergii na inne gatunki. Badania wykazały, że 75% osób z alergią na określone zwierzę (np. koty) ma 14 razy większe prawdopodobieństwo rozwoju alergii na inne zwierzęta (np. psy) ¹.

Wczesna ekspozycja a rozwój alergii

Wpływ wczesnej ekspozycji na zwierzęta domowe na rozwój alergii pozostaje kontrowersyjny. Z jednej strony, badania populacyjne sugerują, że dzieci urodzone w domach z co najmniej dwoma zwierzętami domowymi w pierwszym roku życia mogą być mniej narażone na rozwój alergii na zwierzęta niż dzieci urodzone w domach bez zwierząt ¹².

Z drugiej strony, badania wskazują, że wczesna ekspozycja na psy i koty w domu jest związana z wyższą częstością występowania alergii na te zwierzęta w ciągu pierwszych czterech lat życia ¹². Związek między ekspozycją na zwierzęta a częstością występowania dodatnich wyników testów był niezależny od alergii rodziców ¹.

Inne badanie obejmujące 11 europejskich kohort urodzeniowych nie wykazało związku między posiadaniem futrzastych i pierzastych zwierząt we wczesnym dzieciństwie a astmą lub objawami alergicznego nieżytu nosa u dzieci w wieku 6-10 lat ¹². Jednakże życie ze zwierzętami futrzastymi w pierwszych 2 latach życia wydawało się zmniejszać prawdopodobieństwo uczulenia na alergeny wziewne w wieku wczesnoszkolnym, niezależnie od objawów ze strony układu oddechowego ¹.

Obserwacja i monitorowanie alergii na zwierzęta domowe

Prawidłowa obserwacja i monitorowanie alergii na zwierzęta domowe ma kluczowe znaczenie zarówno dla pacjentów, jak i dla personelu medycznego. Proces ten obejmuje kilka istotnych elementów, począwszy od diagnostyki, przez monitorowanie objawów, aż po ocenę skuteczności wdrożonego leczenia.

Metody diagnostyczne

Podejrzenie alergii na zwierzęta domowe wymaga dokładnej diagnostyki w celu potwierdzenia lub wykluczenia uczulenia. Podstawowymi metodami diagnostycznymi są:

Testy skórne (punktowe) – uważane za najbardziej wiarygodną metodę diagnozowania alergii na zwierzęta ¹²
Badania krwi na obecność przeciwciał IgE specyficznych dla alergenów zwierzęcych ¹²
Wywiad medyczny i badanie fizykalne – ocena objawów i ich związku z ekspozycją na zwierzęta ¹

Warto podkreślić, że diagnostyka alergii na psy jest bardziej złożona i trudniejsza niż diagnostyka alergii na koty, ze względu na większą liczbę składników alergennych ¹. Testy diagnostyczne powinny być wykonywane przez alergologa, który może postawić precyzyjną diagnozę i zaproponować spersonalizowany plan leczenia ¹.

Monitorowanie ekspozycji na alergeny

Kluczowym elementem obserwacji alergii na zwierzęta domowe jest monitorowanie ekspozycji na alergeny. Alergeny zwierząt domowych są powszechne nie tylko w domach, gdzie przebywają zwierzęta, ale także w miejscach, gdzie nigdy nie było zwierząt ¹. Badania wykazały, że ponad 90% wszystkich mieszkań w USA wykazuje obecność alergenów zwierzęcych, niezależnie od obecności zwierząt ¹.

Alergeny kotów są szczególnie trwałe i mogą utrzymywać się w domu nawet do 6 miesięcy po usunięciu zwierzęcia ¹²³. Alergeny zwierząt domowych mogą być przenoszone na ubraniach do szkół, miejsc pracy i innych przestrzeni publicznych ¹².

W przypadku osób narażonych zawodowo na alergeny zwierzęce, monitorowanie zdrowia (tzw. nadzór zdrowotny) jest obowiązkowym elementem procesu minimalizacji ryzyka, ponieważ alergeny nie mogą być całkowicie wyeliminowane ze środowiska ¹.

Monitorowanie objawów i efektów leczenia

Osoby z alergią na zwierzęta domowe powinny regularnie monitorować swoje objawy, szczególnie po ekspozycji na alergeny. Objawy mogą pojawić się w ciągu minut lub mogą być opóźnione o kilka godzin po ekspozycji ¹. Epizod astmatyczny może rozpocząć się w ciągu 15-30 minut od wdychania alergenów ¹.

Monitorowanie objawów powinno obejmować ocenę:

Objawów ze strony górnych dróg oddechowych (katar, kichanie, zatkany nos) ¹
Objawów ze strony dolnych dróg oddechowych (kaszel, świszczący oddech, duszność) ¹
Objawów ze strony oczu (swędzenie, zaczerwienienie, łzawienie) ¹
Objawów skórnych (pokrzywka, swędzenie) ¹
Skuteczności stosowanych leków przeciwalergicznych ¹

W przypadku osób stosujących immunoterapię (odczulanie), monitorowanie postępów leczenia przez alergologa jest niezbędne do oceny skuteczności terapii ¹.

Metody nadzoru i kontroli

Skuteczne zarządzanie alergią na zwierzęta domowe wymaga kompleksowego podejścia, obejmującego zarówno metody kontroli ekspozycji na alergeny, jak i odpowiednie leczenie. Strategie te muszą być dostosowane do indywidualnych potrzeb pacjenta, biorąc pod uwagę nasilenie objawów i stopień uczulenia.

Kontrola ekspozycji na alergeny

Najskuteczniejszym sposobem zarządzania objawami alergii na zwierzęta jest unikanie kontaktu z alergenami ¹. W przypadku ciężkiej alergii, może to oznaczać konieczność znalezienia nowego domu dla zwierzęcia ¹². Należy jednak pamiętać, że alergeny zwierząt mogą utrzymywać się w domu nawet do 6 miesięcy po usunięciu zwierzęcia ¹².

Jeśli alergia nie jest tak ciężka lub pacjent decyduje się na pozostawienie zwierzęcia, można zastosować następujące metody kontroli alergenów:

Ograniczenie dostępu zwierzęcia do sypialni i mebli tapicerowanych ¹
Regularne odkurzanie i sprzątanie z użyciem odkurzacza z filtrem HEPA ¹
Stosowanie oczyszczaczy powietrza z filtrem HEPA ¹
Regularne kąpiele zwierzęcia (pod nadzorem weterynarza) ¹
Częste pranie pościeli, zasłon i innych tekstyliów ¹
Mycie rąk lub kąpiel po bezpośrednim kontakcie ze zwierzęciem ¹

Warto podkreślić, że wbrew powszechnym przekonaniom, nie istnieją rasy psów lub kotów całkowicie hipoalergiczne ¹²³. Amerykański Kennel Club (AKC) stwierdza, że żadna rasa psów nie jest w 100% hipoalergiczna, choć niektóre mogą być lepsze dla osób z alergią niż inne ¹.

Farmakoterapia

Leki przeciwalergiczne są szczególnie skuteczne w łagodzeniu objawów alergii na zwierzęta, takich jak swędzenie, kichanie i katar ¹. Najczęściej stosowane leki przeciwalergiczne to:

Leki przeciwhistaminowe (np. Allegra, Benadryl, Zyrtec) ¹²
Steroidy donosowe ¹
Leki zmniejszające przekrwienie (dekongestanty) ¹
Modyfikatory leukotrienów ¹
Kortykosteroidy (w ciężkich przypadkach) ¹

W przypadku osób z astmą wywołaną alergią na zwierzęta, mogą być potrzebne dodatkowe leki kontrolujące astmę, takie jak wziewne kortykosteroidy lub długo działające beta-agoniści ¹.

Immunoterapia

Immunoterapia (odczulanie) jest skuteczną formą długoterminowego leczenia alergii na zwierzęta ¹. Polega ona na regularnym podawaniu stopniowo zwiększanych dawek alergenu, co z czasem uczy układ odpornościowy tolerować alergen bez wywoływania reakcji alergicznej ¹.

Immunoterapia może być szczególnie przydatna dla osób, które nie mogą uniknąć kontaktu ze zwierzętami (np. z powodów zawodowych) lub dla których leki przeciwalergiczne nie są wystarczająco skuteczne ¹². Skuteczność immunoterapii powinna być monitorowana przez alergologa ¹.

Edukacja i wsparcie pacjentów

Istotnym elementem nadzoru nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe jest edukacja pacjentów. Osoby z alergią powinny być świadome:

Źródeł alergenów zwierzęcych (nie tylko sierść, ale także ślina, mocz i łupież) ¹
Sposobów minimalizacji ekspozycji na alergeny ¹
Dostępnych opcji leczenia ¹
Znaczenia regularnych wizyt kontrolnych u lekarza ¹

Dla osób z ciężką alergią na zwierzęta domowe, które rozważają znalezienie nowego domu dla zwierzęcia, ważne jest wsparcie emocjonalne i praktyczne. Decyzja o oddaniu zwierzęcia może być trudna, dlatego warto rozważyć wszystkie dostępne opcje leczenia przed podjęciem ostatecznej decyzji ¹.

Wyzwania w nadzorze i przyszłe kierunki badań

Nadzór nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe napotyka na szereg wyzwań, które wymagają dalszych badań i innowacyjnych rozwiązań. Przyszłe kierunki badań koncentrują się na lepszym zrozumieniu mechanizmów alergii i rozwoju skuteczniejszych metod leczenia.

Aktualne wyzwania

Jednym z głównych wyzwań w nadzorze nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe jest wszechobecność alergenów zwierzęcych w środowisku. Alergeny kotów są szczególnie przylepne i mogą być przenoszone na ubraniach do miejsc, gdzie nigdy nie było zwierząt ¹. Badania wykazały, że ponad 90% wszystkich mieszkań w USA wykazuje obecność alergenów zwierzęcych, niezależnie od obecności zwierząt ¹.

Innym wyzwaniem jest trudność w zapewnieniu całkowitego unikania alergenów zwierzęcych, szczególnie dla osób, które z powodów zawodowych lub osobistych muszą mieć kontakt ze zwierzętami ¹. Ponadto, istnieje powszechne przekonanie o istnieniu hipoalergicznych ras psów i kotów, co nie jest zgodne z aktualną wiedzą naukową ¹².

Wyzwaniem jest również fakt, że alergia na zwierzęta może rozwinąć się w każdym wieku, nawet u osób, które wcześniej nie miały objawów po kontakcie z danym zwierzęciem ¹. Zjawisko to jest szczególnie zauważalne u młodych dorosłych, którzy po okresie nieobecności w domu nagle doświadczają nasilonych objawów alergicznych po powrocie do domu rodzinnego ¹.

Przyszłe kierunki badań

Przyszłe badania nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe skupiają się na kilku obszarach:

Lepsze zrozumienie wpływu wczesnej ekspozycji na zwierzęta – nadal istnieją kontrowersje dotyczące tego, czy wczesny kontakt ze zwierzętami zwiększa, czy zmniejsza ryzyko rozwoju alergii. Potrzebne są długoterminowe badania populacyjne, aby uzasadnić jakiekolwiek zalecenia dotyczące wczesnego kontaktu ze zwierzętami w celu zapobiegania alergiom w późniejszym życiu ¹.
Rozwijanie skuteczniejszych metod immunoterapii – obecne metody immunoterapii wymagają długotrwałego leczenia i nie zawsze są w pełni skuteczne. Badania nad nowymi formami immunoterapii, takimi jak immunoterapia podjęzykowa lub skórna, mogą prowadzić do bardziej skutecznych i wygodnych opcji leczenia ¹.
Opracowanie lepszych metod kontroli alergenów – istnieje potrzeba opracowania skuteczniejszych metod usuwania alergenów zwierzęcych z domów i innych środowisk. Może to obejmować nowe technologie oczyszczania powietrza, innowacyjne materiały filtracyjne lub bardziej skuteczne środki czyszczące ¹.
Badania nad rolą mikrobioty – coraz więcej badań sugeruje, że mikrobiota jelitowa może odgrywać rolę w rozwoju alergii. Lepsze zrozumienie tej zależności może prowadzić do nowych strategii zapobiegania i leczenia alergii na zwierzęta ¹.

W kontekście pandemii COVID-19, która spowodowała wzrost liczby przypadków alergii na zwierzęta domowe ¹, ważne jest również monitorowanie długoterminowych skutków zwiększonej ekspozycji na alergeny zwierzęce w środowisku domowym.

Znaczenie nadzoru dla zdrowia publicznego

Nadzór nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe ma istotne znaczenie dla zdrowia publicznego, wpływając zarówno na zdrowie indywidualne, jak i na koszty opieki zdrowotnej. Skuteczny nadzór może pomóc w identyfikacji osób zagrożonych, wdrażaniu odpowiednich interwencji i ograniczaniu negatywnego wpływu alergii na jakość życia.

Wpływ na zdrowie i jakość życia

Alergia na zwierzęta domowe może znacząco wpływać na zdrowie i jakość życia. Przedłużona lub regularna ekspozycja na alergeny może powodować przewlekłe zapalenie dróg oddechowych związane z astmą ¹. Przewlekłe zapalenie tkanek w przewodach nosowych spowodowane alergią na zwierzęta może prowadzić do zatkania zatok przynosowych ¹.

Osoby z astmą i alergią na zwierzęta często mają trudności z kontrolowaniem objawów astmy ¹. Alergia na zwierzęta może również przyczyniać się do stałych objawów alergicznych, ponieważ ekspozycja może występować w pracy, szkole, przedszkolu lub innych środowiskach wewnętrznych, nawet jeśli zwierzę nie jest obecne ¹.

W przypadku alergii zawodowej, objawy związane z kontaktem ze zwierzętami mogą być na tyle poważne, że wymagają zmiany pracy lub zawodu ¹. Dotyczy to szczególnie osób pracujących w laboratoriach, lecznicach weterynaryjnych, schroniskach dla zwierząt i innych miejscach, gdzie kontakt ze zwierzętami jest nieunikniony.

Znaczenie dla systemów opieki zdrowotnej

Skuteczny nadzór nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe ma istotne znaczenie dla systemów opieki zdrowotnej. Wczesna diagnoza i odpowiednie leczenie alergii na zwierzęta mogą zapobiec rozwojowi poważniejszych problemów zdrowotnych, takich jak astma lub przewlekłe zapalenie zatok przynosowych ¹.

Edukacja pacjentów na temat alergii na zwierzęta, źródeł alergenów i dostępnych opcji leczenia może pomóc w lepszym zarządzaniu chorobą i zmniejszeniu liczby niepotrzebnych wizyt lekarskich ¹. Ponadto, identyfikacja osób z grupy ryzyka rozwoju alergii na zwierzęta (np. osoby z rodzinną historią alergii lub astmy) może umożliwić wdrożenie działań profilaktycznych ¹.

W kontekście zawodowym, obowiązkowy nadzór zdrowotny dla osób narażonych zawodowo na alergeny zwierzęce może pomóc w wykrywaniu wczesnych objawów alergii i podjęciu działań mających na celu zmniejszenie ryzyka poważnej reakcji alergicznej i długotrwałych zaburzeń oddechowych ¹.

Rekomendacje dla polityki zdrowotnej

Na podstawie aktualnej wiedzy na temat epidemiologii i nadzoru nad alergią na zwierzęta domowe, można sformułować następujące rekomendacje dla polityki zdrowotnej:

Zwiększenie świadomości społecznej na temat alergii na zwierzęta domowe, jej przyczyn, objawów i dostępnych opcji leczenia ¹.
Zapewnienie dostępu do odpowiedniej diagnostyki alergii, w tym testów skórnych i badań krwi, szczególnie dla osób z grupy ryzyka ¹.
Wspieranie badań naukowych nad lepszym zrozumieniem mechanizmów alergii na zwierzęta i rozwojem skuteczniejszych metod leczenia ¹.
Opracowanie standardów kontroli alergenów w miejscach publicznych, takich jak szkoły, przedszkola i miejsca pracy, aby zmniejszyć ekspozycję na alergeny zwierzęce ¹.
Wdrożenie programów nadzoru zdrowotnego dla osób narażonych zawodowo na alergeny zwierzęce ¹.
Opracowanie wytycznych dotyczących opieki nad zwierzętami dla osób z alergią, uwzględniających metody minimalizacji ekspozycji na alergeny ¹.

Wdrożenie tych rekomendacji może przyczynić się do lepszego zarządzania alergią na zwierzęta domowe i zmniejszenia jej negatywnego wpływu na zdrowie publiczne.

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#1 Allergic to Your Pet? Learn About Dog and Cat Allergies
https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pet-dog-cat-allergies/
About 6 out of 10 of households in the United States have a pet. But many people have animal allergies, especially people who have other allergies or asthma. Allergies to cats and dogs affect 10 to 20% of the worlds population. […] Allergies to pets with fur, such as cats and dogs, are common. Even rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, ferrets, and horses can cause allergy symptoms. People can also be allergic to animals with feathers (birds like parrots or parakeets). […] When you have a pet allergy, you are not allergic to the pets hair, fur, or feathers. You are allergic to the protein that is found in the pets dander (dead skin cells) saliva, and urine. The hair, fur, or feathers collect the dander. It can also carry other allergens like dust mites, mold, and pollen. When those proteins get into your airways, eyes, nose, mouth, or on your skin, it triggers allergy symptoms.
#1 Pet Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17702-pet-allergies
Pet allergies are common. Up to 30% of people in the U.S. are allergic to cats and dogs. […] Pet allergies can affect anyone. […] Youre more likely to have or develop pet allergies if your biological parents have pet allergies. […] Pet allergies cause an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction is your bodys response to an allergen. […] If you have allergies, the first time you encounter a pet allergen, your body responds by creating immunoglobulin E (IgE). […] Your healthcare provider may use different allergy tests to help diagnose your pet allergies based on your symptoms. […] The best way to prevent pet allergies is to avoid animals that trigger allergic reactions. […] Living with a pet allergy can be challenging. Most symptoms are mild, but some may cause breathing problems. Most people can control their pet allergies with medications. […] If you have symptoms of pet allergies, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can work with you to determine if your symptoms are from a common illness or pet allergies.
#1 8 Surprising Facts About Pet Allergies
https://www.filtrete.com/3M/en_US/filtrete/home-tips/full-story/~/7-suprising-facts-about-pet-allergies/?storyid=974e37a7-71ff-464c-969c-9539d365ce49
In the United States, as many as 30% of people have allergic reactions to cats and dogs. […] More than 90% of all U.S. residences test positive for animal allergens, regardless of pet presence. […] In fact, cat allergies are about twice as common as dog allergies. […] Allergy sufferers react specifically to the proteins contained in pet saliva, urine and dander (dead skin cells) that disperse as our beloved family members shed. […] Pet allergens cling to walls, furniture and clothing, and can hang in the air for months (and throughout multiple washes) even after a pet is gone. […] A truly non-allergenic breed of dog or cat doesnt exist. […] Cat allergens are stickier than just about any other type of allergen. […] According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, children raised in a house with two or more pets during their first year of life may be less likely than children raised in critter-free dwellings to develop pet allergies.
#1 Hypoallergenic Pets | Find Out More About Pet Allergy Relief
https://www.nationaljewish.org/conditions/allergy/overview/allergens/animal/hypo-allergenic-cats-or-dogs
Up to 10% of the general population, and 40% of people who have been diagnosed with allergies, are allergic to dogs and cats. Additionally, between 20% and 30% of people with asthma also have dog or cat allergies. In fact, a recent National Institutes of Health study concluded that 30% of all asthma cases are attributable to cat allergies. […] Cat allergies are more common and often more severe than dog allergies. […] The best solution is to avoid having dogs and cats if you find you are allergic to them. Anyone who has already been diagnosed with allergies to anything at all should think twice before getting a furry pet. Animal allergies can develop with exposure even in previously non-allergic individuals, taking up to 2 years to develop after the pets been introduced.
#1 Allergy to Animals | Safety Services
https://safetyservices.ucdavis.edu/units/occupational-health/surveillance-system/animal-allergies
Some people develop allergies to the animals they work with or to their own pets. […] The incidence is quite high – some estimate that as many as 15% of a human population is allergic to some animal species. […] Various studies have shown that the incidence of animal allergies among animal handlers may be as low as 10% or as high as 30%. […] Allergy is clearly an important risk associated with animals.
#1 Laboratory Animal Allergy Prevention Guidelines, Policies and regulations | University of Otago
https://www.otago.ac.nz/administration/policies/policy-collection/laboratory-animal-allergy-prevention-guidelines
Laboratory animal allergy (LAA) is an inappropriate immune response to otherwise harmless proteins (allergens) in the urine, saliva, fur, and skin cells of laboratory animals such as rats and mice. LAA affects 10-50 per cent of individuals who are exposed to these allergens. […] Health surveillance or monitoring is a part of the minimisation process as the allergen cannot be completely eliminated from the environment and some exposure is possible then the potential health effects from the exposure must be monitored. […] It is mandatory for those potentially exposed staff and students to have health surveillance in order to detect the early signs of LAA and take action to reduce the risk of a severe allergic reaction and of long-term respiratory impairment.
#1 Preventing Asthma in Animal Handlers | NIOSH | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/97-116/default.html
About 33% of animal handlers have allergic symptoms, and approximately 10% have symptoms of animal-induced asthma. […] Animals or animal products such as dander, hair, scales, fur, saliva, and body wastes contain powerful allergens that can cause both respiratory and skin disorders. […] The diagnosis of animal allergy or sensitization is made using skin-prick tests, blood antibody tests, and other methods. […] Symptoms from animal-related asthma and allergies can be severe and may require affected workers to change jobs or careers. […] A person who becomes allergic to one animal species may react to other species as well. Even a low exposure to these common sources of animal allergens can result in allergies, but the risk increases as the workers exposure increases.
#1 Pet Allergies: What Are the First Symptoms? | Allegra
https://www.allegra.com/en-us/understanding-allergies/allergy-triggers/pet-allergies/what-are-the-first-symptoms-of-pet-allergies
Cat allergies and dog allergies are common issues that affect many people. Studies show that about 10 to 20% of the world’s population suffers from pet allergy symptoms, a rate that has been increasing over time. […] The main symptoms of allergic rhinitis related to pets typically include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy skin, and itching around the nose, eyes, and throat. Some people with pet allergies may also experience asthma-related symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. […] A frequent question regarding pet allergies is whether the same person can be allergic to both dogs and cats. The short answer is yes: Its completely possible to experience allergies to cats, dogs, or both. One study found that 75% of individuals with an allergy to a certain animal (such as cats) are 14 times more likely to also develop an allergy to other animals (such as dogs).
#1 Increasing Prevalence of Sensitization to Cat/Dog Allergens in the COVID-19 Pandemic – PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37918371/
Cat and dog allergens are common indoor triggers for respiratory allergies such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of cat and dog allergies in adults and analyze changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. […] Of 8,102 SPTs performed, 400 (4.9%) were sensitized to cat allergen and 289 (3.6%) to dog allergen. […] Compared to the pre-pandemic period, patients presenting during the pandemic had higher rates of cat and dog sensitization (5.7% vs. 4.1%; p lt; 0.05, 5.2% vs. 1.7%; p lt; 0.05). […] During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in cat and dog allergies among adults. Increased exposure to pet antigens, both directly and indirectly, has resulted in more people becoming sensitized to cats or dogs.
#1 Banfield: Few pets allergic to food; flea, environmental allergies rise | American Veterinary Medical Associationmultiple-users-1information-circle
https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2018-07-15/banfield-few-pets-allergic-food-flea-environmental-allergies-rise
Food allergies affect just 0.2 percent of dogs and 0.1 percent of cats, according to the 2018 State of Pet Health Report from Banfield Pet Hospital. […] Flea allergy has been on the rise over the past 10 years, according to the report, with a 12.5 percent increase in dogs and a 67.3 percent increase in cats. Environmental allergies are also on an upward trend, with a 30.7 percent increase in dogs and an 11.5 percent increase in cats over the past decade. […] The 2018 State of Pet Health Report, released May 29, focused on the prevalence of various allergic conditions in pets in the U.S. Banfield’s research team analyzed data from over 2.5 million dogs and 500,000 cats across Banfield hospitals. […] The 2017 prevalence of flea allergy was 1.8 percent in dogs and 2.0 percent in cats, and of environmental allergies was 3.6 percent in dogs and 0.4 percent in cats. […] Environmental allergens for pets vary by region and climate, but many are found in a typical pet owner’s homeâincluding pollen, dander, molds, and cleaning solutions.
#1 Pet allergy – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352192
Pet allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in an animal’s skin cells, saliva or urine. […] Most often, pet allergy is triggered by exposure to the dead flakes of skin (dander) a pet sheds. […] Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergy, but pet allergies are most commonly associated with cats and dogs. […] Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, mold or pet dander. […] Your immune system produces proteins known as antibodies. […] When you inhale the allergen or come into contact with it, your immune system responds and produces an inflammatory response in your nasal passages or lungs. […] Prolonged or regular exposure to the allergen can cause the ongoing (chronic) airway inflammation associated with asthma. […] Pet allergies are common. However, you’re more likely to develop a pet allergy if allergies or asthma runs in your family. […] Ongoing (chronic) inflammation of tissues in the nasal passages caused by pet allergy can obstruct the hollow cavities connected to your nasal passages (sinuses). […] People with asthma and pet allergy often have difficulty managing asthma symptoms.
#1 Pet Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity
https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/pet-allergy-factsheet/
It is possible to develop an allergy to an animal or pet at any time, even where that animal has previously been a pet, or where a pet does not live in your home. […] Pet allergens can be found in environments where cats do not live including schools and public places where these allergens have been transferred onto clothing and shoes from pets like cats and dogs. […] Cat allergen is particularly persistent and can remain in homes long after a cat is no longer there. […] In moderate to severe pet-induced allergy, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be appropriate. […] Using a combination of the following pet allergen control measures may help to reduce symptoms and control existing allergic symptoms that are triggered by pet allergen. […] Despite common misperceptions that certain types or breeds of pets may be less allergenic there is no such thing as a truly non-allergic dog or cat.
#1 Why Has My Pet Allergy Become Worse? | Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
https://community.aafa.org/db/ask-the-allergist/record/why-has-my-pet-allergy-become-worse
Allergists regularly meet young adults who experience new or increased, severe symptoms when they return home. This happens when they are reunited with their pet (e.g., college students returning home for holidays). The symptoms are related to an animal. Specifically, patients share that they have more symptoms when they come home after being away for several months. This is even though the home environment did not appear to bother them before. […] The true prevalence of this phenomenon is not known. Treatment options include: […] Having allergy shots (immunotherapy) to dog dander might be an option. They can help with desensitization and building tolerance to dog allergens.
#1 Dog and cat exposure and respective pet allergy in early childhood – PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25735463/
The association of dog and cat exposure in early childhood with the incidence of respective allergies has remained controversial. The aim of the study was to obtain population-based evidence on the association of early exposure to dog or cat, or both, with dog and cat allergies. […] The adjusted relative incidence of positive test results (with 95% confidence intervals) was 2.69 (1.45-5.02) for dog and 5.03 (2.47-10.2) for cat allergens among children exposed to a respective pet alone compared with children without such exposure. The corresponding adjusted prevalence odds ratios for diagnosed dog and cat allergies were 1.75 (0.77-3.79) and 5.13 (2.30-11.4), respectively. The association between pet exposure and the incidence of positive test results was independent of parents’ allergies.
#1 Does Pet Ownership in Infancy Lead to Asthma or Allergy at School Age? Pooled Analysis of Individual Participant Data from 11 European Birth Cohorts | PLOS One
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0043214
To examine the associations between pet keeping in early childhood and asthma and allergies in children aged 610 years. […] We found no association between furry and feathered pet keeping early in life and asthma in school age. […] Pet ownership in early life did not appear to either increase or reduce the risk of asthma or allergic rhinitis symptoms in children aged 610. […] The objective of this study was to improve the evidence on the primary prevention of asthma and allergies in relation to pet keeping in early life, using data from a large data base of European birth cohort studies. […] Our meta-analyses showed that ownership of single types of furry pets or birds in the first 2 years of life neither increased nor decreased the risk of asthma, non-allergic asthma (not sensitized to any aero- or food-allergen), allergic asthma or allergic rhinitis (both included sensitization to at least 1 aero-allergen) in school-aged children.
#1 Does Pet Ownership in Infancy Lead to Asthma or Allergy at School Age? Pooled Analysis of Individual Participant Data from 11 European Birth Cohorts | PLOS One
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0043214
However, living with furry pets in the first 2 years appeared to reduce the likelihood of becoming sensitized to aero-allergens in early school-age regardless of respiratory symptoms. […] This pooled analysis of individual participant data from 11 European birth cohorts found no association between ownership of single types of furry and feathered pets in the first 2 years of life and asthma or allergic rhinitis in school children aged 610.
#1 Pet allergy – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352198
Your doctor may suspect a pet allergy based on symptoms, an examination of your nose, and your answers to his or her questions. […] Your doctor may suggest an allergy skin test to determine exactly what you’re allergic to. […] In some cases, a skin test can’t be performed because of the presence of a skin condition or because of interactions with certain medications. […] The first line of treatment for controlling pet allergy is avoiding the allergy-causing animal as much as possible. […] If you suspect that you may have a pet allergy, take steps to reduce your exposure to your pets.
#1 Pet Allergies: What Are the First Symptoms? | Allegra
https://www.allegra.com/en-us/understanding-allergies/allergy-triggers/pet-allergies/what-are-the-first-symptoms-of-pet-allergies
According to studies, dog allergies are more complex and challenging to diagnose than cat allergies. This is due to the number of allergenic components involved. […] Most diagnoses for pet allergies are confirmed through a blood test, or more often, a skin prick test. After testing, your doctor or allergist will be able to recommend the ideal treatment for your cat or dog allergy. […] The allergy symptoms of dog and cat dander allergies are generally very similar. Therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate the two allergies from one another at first glance. […] Its typically recommended for anyone who is allergic to either dogs or cats to avoid exposure to triggers in order to minimize symptoms. […] In some cases of severe pet allergies, it may be necessary to find a new home for the animal. […] There are several treatments for dog and cat-related allergic rhinitis. Symptom management is usually first approached with oral antihistamines, such as Allegra.
#1 Pet Allergy
https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments/allergies/pet-allergy
Almost 62% of U.S. households have pets, and more than 161 million of these pets are cats and dogs.* Unfortunately, millions of pet owners have an allergy (allergic rhinitis) to their animals. […] You or your doctor may suspect you have a pet allergy, but allergy testing performed by an allergist / immunologist is the best method to diagnose exactly what you are allergic to and to develop a personalized plan to manage your symptoms. […] The most effective way to manage pet and other allergic rhinitis symptoms is to avoid the allergen(s) causing the symptoms. […] If you have a pet allergy, talk to your allergist / immunologist about the potential for allergy shots (immunotherapy). Allergy shots have a proven track record as an effective form of long-term treatment.
#1 Allergic to Your Pet? Learn About Dog and Cat Allergies
https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pet-dog-cat-allergies/
Cat and dog allergens are everywhere. Cat allergens are especially sticky. Pet allergens can be found in homes, classrooms, workplaces, and other places where pets have never been. This is because people can carry pet allergens on their clothing. […] Pet allergens can cause symptoms up to 6 months after the animal is gone, especially cat allergens. […] When you have moderate to severe allergies, it is best to see a board-certified allergist. […] Your doctor will diagnose a pet or animal allergy based on your medical history, symptoms, a physical exam, and allergy test results. Allergy testing is the best way find out if you allergic to a specific animal type. […] A pet allergy can be challenging to manage. […] If other treatments and steps are not working, allergy shots (immunotherapy) can be very effective. […] Pet dander can remain in a home for up to 6 months after the pet has been removed.
#1 Allergies to Dogs, Cats, & Pets – Allergy & Asthma Network
https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/allergies-to-dogs-cats-pets/
Allergic reactions to cats, dogs and other furry animals are caused by proteins found in flecks of the pets skin, called dander, as well as in their saliva and urine. These tiny proteins can hang suspended in the air for a long time, settle in furniture, rugs and house dust that circulates throughout your home. You are really not allergic to the fur of your pet. You are allergic to pet dander. […] Pet allergens can cause reactions when theyre inhaled, get in the eyes, or come in contact with skin. Just walking into a room where a cat or dog has been could cause symptoms. Touching the animal or being licked may cause itching and hives. Reactions can happen within minutes or may be delayed for hours after exposure. […] Finding a new home for the pet is the most effective way to reduce levels of pet allergens in the home. […] Allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, can help build a patients tolerance to pet allergens, reducing or eliminating symptoms. […] Talk with your allergist about whether immunotherapy is right for you.
#1 Allergic to Your Pet? Learn About Dog and Cat Allergies
https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pet-dog-cat-allergies/
These are all allergens that can trigger allergic reactions. […] Animal allergy symptoms can include: Runny nose (also known as rhinorrhea usually a clear, thin nasal discharge), Stuffy nose (due to blockage or nasal congestion), Postnasal drip (mucus runs from the back of your nose down your throat), Sneezing, Itchy nose, eyes, ears, and mouth, Red and watery eyes, Swelling around the eyes, Coughing, Hives, Shortness of breath, coughing, and/or wheezing. […] A pet allergy can trigger an asthma attack if you also have asthma. This is called allergic asthma. […] People with pet allergies have different levels of sensitivity to pet allergens. Some people have very minor symptoms, while other people have severe symptoms. […] An asthma episode can begin within 15 to 30 minutes of inhaling allergens.
#1 Pet Dander | American Lung Association
https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/pet-dander
If your symptoms still arenât controlled, talk to your health care provider about medications. Many over the counter antihistamines and decongestants will do the trick, but in severe cases corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers may be helpful. Talking to an allergist and getting an allergy test is the best way to determine what course of action you should take.
#1 Pet Dander | American Lung Association
https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/pet-dander
Pet dander is the most common source of a pet allergy, but people can also be allergic to the proteins that are present in pet saliva, urine and feces. […] People suffering from pet allergies will have symptoms consistent with hay fever. This includes a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and shortness of breath. Coming into physical contact with pet dander can cause contact dermatitis, or a skin rash, hives or trigger a personâs asthma. […] The best way to manage a pet allergy is to minimize exposure and avoid contact. If being around the animal canât be avoided, you can reduce exposure by keeping the pet(s) off of furniture and out of the bedroom(s) of anyone with an allergy. Clean furniture, carpets and clothing immediately and frequently after contact. Wash your hands, or even bathe, if you have had direct contact with the animal.
#1 Allergic to Dogs or Cats? Pet Allergy Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment| BENADRYLÂ®
https://www.benadryl.com/allergies/pet-allergy-symptoms-relief
To help keep dander out of the air, use an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to clean the air in your house. […] Immunotherapy is a type of treatment provided by an allergist that trains your immune system to become more tolerant of allergens. […] Nasal irrigation can help wash out the nose and sinuses to clear away irritating allergens, like pet dander. […] If you’re looking to treat cat and dog allergy symptoms at the source, try BENADRYL products, such as BENADRYL Allergy ULTRATABS for temporary relief.
#1 How to Limit Pet Dander to Avoid Allergies – Northeast Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
https://neaai.com/how-to-limit-pet-dander-to-avoid-allergies/
Animal dander is one of the most common allergens in the world. Pet allergies often cause upper and lower respiratory problems such as congestion, sneezing, runny nose, chest tightness, and wheezing. […] Though pet dander is the primary cause of allergies, proteins found in saliva, urine, and feces of certain pets can also cause allergic reactions. […] It is crucial for you to only use products that are labeled specifically for your pet, and you should ask your veterinarian or another animal care professional for their shampoo recommendations. […] Talk to your allergist or doctor about immunotherapy, antihistamine nose sprays, or antihistamine pills to alleviate your symptoms.
#1 Pets, Dog and Cat Allergies | Symptoms & Treatment | ACAAI Public Website
https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/pet-allergies/
A pet allergy can contribute to constant allergy symptoms, as exposure can occur at work, school, day care or in other indoor environments, even if a pet is not present. […] Cats produce multiple allergens (proteins that can cause allergy). These allergens are found on the fur and skin and in saliva. All cats produce allergens; studies have not shown that cats can be hypoallergenic (meaning that they donât cause allergy). […] Dogs produce multiple allergens, or proteins that can cause allergy. These allergens are found in dog hair, dander, saliva and urine. All dogs produce allergens; studies have not shown that dogs can be hypoallergenic (not cause allergy). Dog allergen levels increase if the dog lives indoors and are higher in the rooms where a dog is allowed.
#1 Allergic to Dogs or Cats? Pet Allergy Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment| BENADRYLÂ®
https://www.benadryl.com/allergies/pet-allergy-symptoms-relief
If you’re unsure about whether you have pet allergies, or you have severe symptoms and reactions around pets, consider visiting your doctor. […] The allergist will likely perform a skin-prick test to determine if you have allergies. […] If you are allergic to cats, dogs, or other pets, it’s important to limit your exposure to pet dander and other pet allergy triggers as much as possible to manage your symptoms. […] Pet dander and other pet allergens can stick around for a long time, even after pets are gone. […] If you’re looking for an allergy-friendly pet, you may want to consider animals that do not shed dander. […] The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, but certain ones are better for people with pet allergies than others. […] Pet dander can get buried deep into upholstered or fabric-covered surfaces, which is difficult to remove.
#1 Pets Health Consequences | Lockey, Fox, Ledford & Glaum MDs PA
https://www.allergytampa.com/2019/01/04/when-having-pets-has-health-consequences/
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, approximately 10 percent of people have an allergy to household pets. […] According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, if you have a pet allergy, your bodyâs immune system has a negative reaction to the proteins that make up your petâs urine, saliva, and dander. […] Dander consists of microscopic flecks of skin that are shed by animals with fur or feathers. […] Allergy medications, such as antihistamines and nasal sprays, are particularly effective for relieving the itching, sneezing, and runny nose associated with pet allergies. […] Should you need more substantial treatment, your allergy and immunology physician may recommend immunotherapy or âallergy shots,â which can train your immune system to become more resilient and less affected by allergens.
#1 Cat and dog allergy | healthdirect
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cat-and-dog-allergy
The best solution to pet allergies is to avoid exposure as much as possible. […] If you cant avoid exposure to pets, you may be able to treat your symptoms with medicines, such as antihistamines, nasal (nose) steroid sprays, decongestants. […] Another option is allergen immunotherapy (also called desensitisation).
#1 Are You Allergic to Your Pet? | ASPCA
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/are-you-allergic-your-pet
Although many people have discovered the beneficial effects of caring for a furry friend, the fact remains that roughly 15 to 20% of the population is allergic to animals. […] The most common pet allergens are proteins found in their dander (scales of old skin that are constantly shed by an animal), saliva, urine and sebaceous cells. […] Once the diagnosis of a pet allergy is made, a physician will often recommend eliminating the companion animal from the surroundings. […] Keep in mind that most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens, all of which can be found in the home. […] Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. […] You must also be prepared to invest the time and effort needed to decontaminate your home environment, limit future exposure to allergens and find a physician who will work with you. […] Find a physician, preferably an allergy specialist, who will make sure that your pet is the cause of your allergies and will help alleviate your symptoms.
#1 Dog and cat exposure and respective pet allergy in early childhood – PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25735463/
Early exposure to dog and cat at home is associated with a higher incidence of respective pet allergy during the first four years of life. Further evidence from population-based studies with longer follow-up is required to justify any recommendation concerning early pet contacts with a view to preventing pet allergies later in life.
#1 Pet Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity
https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/pet-allergy-factsheet/
This factsheet will provide information on pet allergy with the main focus on cat and dog allergy. It includes possible signs and symptoms of pet allergy, advice on what to do if you suspect one and provides practical advice on avoiding pet allergens. […] Cat and dog allergy is common, especially in people who also have allergic asthma or hay fever. It is also possible to be allergic to other types of animals including those with hair (fur), feathers or even scales, including: […] Identifying allergic triggers is an important part of managing an allergy. […] Your GP/Health Professional may refer you for allergy testing to confirm or exclude a pet allergy. […] Pet allergy is caused by the protein in a petâs saliva, urine or dander (shed skin particles). […] Allergic signs and symptoms are seen in people whose immune system mistakenly recognises pet dander, saliva, or urine, as a harmful substance (allergen) and, as a result, produces IgE antibodies as a defence mechanism.
#2 Animal Allergy Testing: Improve Health & Quality of Life | Labcorp
https://www.labcorp.com/treatment-areas/allergies/pet-animal
As pet ownership has increased, the prevalence of animal sensitization continues to increase. […] 10-20% About 10-20% of the people in the world have allergies to dog and/or cat allergens.
#2 8 Surprising Facts About Pet Allergies
https://www.filtrete.com/3M/en_US/filtrete/home-tips/full-story/~/7-suprising-facts-about-pet-allergies/?storyid=974e37a7-71ff-464c-969c-9539d365ce49
In the United States, as many as 30% of people have allergic reactions to cats and dogs. […] More than 90% of all U.S. residences test positive for animal allergens, regardless of pet presence. […] In fact, cat allergies are about twice as common as dog allergies. […] Allergy sufferers react specifically to the proteins contained in pet saliva, urine and dander (dead skin cells) that disperse as our beloved family members shed. […] Pet allergens cling to walls, furniture and clothing, and can hang in the air for months (and throughout multiple washes) even after a pet is gone. […] A truly non-allergenic breed of dog or cat doesnt exist. […] Cat allergens are stickier than just about any other type of allergen. […] According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, children raised in a house with two or more pets during their first year of life may be less likely than children raised in critter-free dwellings to develop pet allergies.
#2 Pet Allergies: Causes & How to Reduce Allergens | ZYRTECÂ®
https://www.zyrtec.com/allergy-guide/understanding-allergies/types/pet-allergies
Cat and dog allergies are common, but there are still misconceptions. […] For many people, animal allergies can stem from proteins contained in an animals dander or dead skin cells, both of which can flake off regularly. […] Dogs can get into a variety of places and are prone to have proteins, dander and pollen cling to their fur. […] In fact, studies have shown that many of these breeds still carry similar levels of allergens around homes and cause dog allergy symptoms. […] Cats are more likely to cause an allergic reaction than dogs. […] Although a cat dander allergy is often to blame, cats also have multiple allergens found on their bodies and in their saliva. […] However, for those living with cat allergies, having more than one cat can lead to higher levels of allergens in your home. […] Pet allergens can remain in the carpets and furniture, and can even linger in the air, for up to six months. […] When you cant live without your pet, a medicine for dog and cat allergies can help control your pet allergy symptoms.
#2 Pet allergy – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352192
Pet allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in an animal’s skin cells, saliva or urine. […] Most often, pet allergy is triggered by exposure to the dead flakes of skin (dander) a pet sheds. […] Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergy, but pet allergies are most commonly associated with cats and dogs. […] Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, mold or pet dander. […] Your immune system produces proteins known as antibodies. […] When you inhale the allergen or come into contact with it, your immune system responds and produces an inflammatory response in your nasal passages or lungs. […] Prolonged or regular exposure to the allergen can cause the ongoing (chronic) airway inflammation associated with asthma. […] Pet allergies are common. However, you’re more likely to develop a pet allergy if allergies or asthma runs in your family. […] Ongoing (chronic) inflammation of tissues in the nasal passages caused by pet allergy can obstruct the hollow cavities connected to your nasal passages (sinuses). […] People with asthma and pet allergy often have difficulty managing asthma symptoms.
#2 Learn Animal Allergies | Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida
https://allergyweb.com/education/allergy/animal/
While pets are wonderful additions to a household, they can cause allergic reactions in those who are sensitized to animal allergens. […] It is well accepted that furred pets contribute to allergic diseases such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, and atopic dermatitis (allergic eczema). […] Several studies looking at large groups of people have found an interesting trend â that children born into a house with a pet were somewhat LESS likely to become allergic than those children born into a house without pets. […] Also, a study in the May 2002 issue of âEpidemiologyâ showing that older children were MORE likely to develop asthma if they had pets, especially dogs, in their homes. […] Consequently, we donât know what to tell future allergic parents. Until more information comes out, most allergists are still recommending avoidance of furred pets (fish, birds, reptiles arenât much of a problem).
#2 Dog and cat exposure and respective pet allergy in early childhood – PubMed
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25735463/
Early exposure to dog and cat at home is associated with a higher incidence of respective pet allergy during the first four years of life. Further evidence from population-based studies with longer follow-up is required to justify any recommendation concerning early pet contacts with a view to preventing pet allergies later in life.
#2 Does Pet Ownership in Infancy Lead to Asthma or Allergy at School Age? Pooled Analysis of Individual Participant Data from 11 European Birth Cohorts | PLOS One
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0043214
However, living with furry pets in the first 2 years appeared to reduce the likelihood of becoming sensitized to aero-allergens in early school-age regardless of respiratory symptoms. […] This pooled analysis of individual participant data from 11 European birth cohorts found no association between ownership of single types of furry and feathered pets in the first 2 years of life and asthma or allergic rhinitis in school children aged 610.
#2 Preventing Asthma in Animal Handlers | NIOSH | CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/97-116/default.html
About 33% of animal handlers have allergic symptoms, and approximately 10% have symptoms of animal-induced asthma. […] Animals or animal products such as dander, hair, scales, fur, saliva, and body wastes contain powerful allergens that can cause both respiratory and skin disorders. […] The diagnosis of animal allergy or sensitization is made using skin-prick tests, blood antibody tests, and other methods. […] Symptoms from animal-related asthma and allergies can be severe and may require affected workers to change jobs or careers. […] A person who becomes allergic to one animal species may react to other species as well. Even a low exposure to these common sources of animal allergens can result in allergies, but the risk increases as the workers exposure increases.
#2 Pet Allergies: What Are the First Symptoms? | Allegra
https://www.allegra.com/en-us/understanding-allergies/allergy-triggers/pet-allergies/what-are-the-first-symptoms-of-pet-allergies
According to studies, dog allergies are more complex and challenging to diagnose than cat allergies. This is due to the number of allergenic components involved. […] Most diagnoses for pet allergies are confirmed through a blood test, or more often, a skin prick test. After testing, your doctor or allergist will be able to recommend the ideal treatment for your cat or dog allergy. […] The allergy symptoms of dog and cat dander allergies are generally very similar. Therefore, it can be difficult to differentiate the two allergies from one another at first glance. […] Its typically recommended for anyone who is allergic to either dogs or cats to avoid exposure to triggers in order to minimize symptoms. […] In some cases of severe pet allergies, it may be necessary to find a new home for the animal. […] There are several treatments for dog and cat-related allergic rhinitis. Symptom management is usually first approached with oral antihistamines, such as Allegra.
#2 Pet Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity
https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/pet-allergy-factsheet/
It is possible to develop an allergy to an animal or pet at any time, even where that animal has previously been a pet, or where a pet does not live in your home. […] Pet allergens can be found in environments where cats do not live including schools and public places where these allergens have been transferred onto clothing and shoes from pets like cats and dogs. […] Cat allergen is particularly persistent and can remain in homes long after a cat is no longer there. […] In moderate to severe pet-induced allergy, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be appropriate. […] Using a combination of the following pet allergen control measures may help to reduce symptoms and control existing allergic symptoms that are triggered by pet allergen. […] Despite common misperceptions that certain types or breeds of pets may be less allergenic there is no such thing as a truly non-allergic dog or cat.
#2 Pet allergies and kids: What parents should know – CHOC – Children’s health hub
https://health.choc.org/pet-allergies-and-kids-what-parents-should-know/
While pets can bring so much joy to families, they also tend to bring dander, saliva and dust into the home that may be harmful to kids with asthma or allergies. […] Both furry animals and feathered friends can be an allergen trigger for kids. […] Pet allergy signs and symptoms will resemble what is typically seen with seasonal allergies caused by the inflammation of nasal passages, like: […] If your child has asthma, pet allergies make worsen their asthma symptoms and they may experience: […] If you think your child may be allergic to your pet, visit your pediatrician. You may need to have your child tested for allergies. […] If your child has been diagnosed with an animal allergy, youâll have to decide whether to keep your pet or find it a new home. […] Sometimes, such measures may not be enough. Because animal allergens are airborne, heating and ventilation systems will spread allergens throughout the house, even if the pet is kept out of bedrooms. […] If your child still has symptoms after taking medicines, including allergy shots, or needs a bunch of medicines to be around your pet, your only choice might be to find a new home for your pet. […] After a pet is removed from the home, it can take several months before dander is totally gone.
#2 Allergic to Dogs or Cats? Pet Allergy Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment| BENADRYLÂ®
https://www.benadryl.com/allergies/pet-allergy-symptoms-relief
If you’re unsure about whether you have pet allergies, or you have severe symptoms and reactions around pets, consider visiting your doctor. […] The allergist will likely perform a skin-prick test to determine if you have allergies. […] If you are allergic to cats, dogs, or other pets, it’s important to limit your exposure to pet dander and other pet allergy triggers as much as possible to manage your symptoms. […] Pet dander and other pet allergens can stick around for a long time, even after pets are gone. […] If you’re looking for an allergy-friendly pet, you may want to consider animals that do not shed dander. […] The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, but certain ones are better for people with pet allergies than others. […] Pet dander can get buried deep into upholstered or fabric-covered surfaces, which is difficult to remove.
#2 Allergic to Dogs or Cats? Pet Allergy Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment| BENADRYLÂ®
https://www.benadryl.com/allergies/pet-allergy-symptoms-relief
To help keep dander out of the air, use an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to clean the air in your house. […] Immunotherapy is a type of treatment provided by an allergist that trains your immune system to become more tolerant of allergens. […] Nasal irrigation can help wash out the nose and sinuses to clear away irritating allergens, like pet dander. […] If you’re looking to treat cat and dog allergy symptoms at the source, try BENADRYL products, such as BENADRYL Allergy ULTRATABS for temporary relief.
#2 Why Has My Pet Allergy Become Worse? | Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
https://community.aafa.org/db/ask-the-allergist/record/why-has-my-pet-allergy-become-worse
Allergists regularly meet young adults who experience new or increased, severe symptoms when they return home. This happens when they are reunited with their pet (e.g., college students returning home for holidays). The symptoms are related to an animal. Specifically, patients share that they have more symptoms when they come home after being away for several months. This is even though the home environment did not appear to bother them before. […] The true prevalence of this phenomenon is not known. Treatment options include: […] Having allergy shots (immunotherapy) to dog dander might be an option. They can help with desensitization and building tolerance to dog allergens.
#3 Allergy to pets – Resource Library – Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
https://library.sheffieldchildrens.nhs.uk/allergy-to-pets/
This is when someone develops antibodies to a protein (allergen) in their pet. […] You can be allergic to a number of proteins in animals including their hairs, skin (dander), saliva, urine and serum albumin (in the pets blood). […] Not necessarily but people will often have more than one allergy. It depends upon which bit of the pet you have the allergy to and if this allergen is found in other animals. […] Dander is often very different between mammals. Serum albumins are present in all mammals and have similar protein structure between species. This means if you are allergic to these proteins then you will be allergic to all pets. […] 10% of the population have a pet allergy but if you have asthma then it is more of a risk. […] Yes, unfortunately cat and dog allergens can persist for up to 6 months after an animal has moved home. A deep clean may be advised if the new occupant is very allergic.
#3 Pet Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity
https://www.allergyuk.org/resources/pet-allergy-factsheet/
It is possible to develop an allergy to an animal or pet at any time, even where that animal has previously been a pet, or where a pet does not live in your home. […] Pet allergens can be found in environments where cats do not live including schools and public places where these allergens have been transferred onto clothing and shoes from pets like cats and dogs. […] Cat allergen is particularly persistent and can remain in homes long after a cat is no longer there. […] In moderate to severe pet-induced allergy, allergen-specific immunotherapy may be appropriate. […] Using a combination of the following pet allergen control measures may help to reduce symptoms and control existing allergic symptoms that are triggered by pet allergen. […] Despite common misperceptions that certain types or breeds of pets may be less allergenic there is no such thing as a truly non-allergic dog or cat.