| Q. |
What
is a pet allergy? |
| A. |
A
pet allergy is an allergic reaction to a pets dander and/or
saliva. Over 10 percent of the nation are allergic to their
pet. Symptoms to pet allergies come in the form of sneezing,
itchy watery eyes, a runny nose, and itchy face and throat
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| Q. |
Are
there cats and dogs that do not cause allergic reactions? |
| A. |
There
is no such thing as a non-allergenic cat or dog, but there are
some that cause less harm than others. For example, a dog with
short hair is less likely to shed on the carpet and on furniture
then those with long hair. Short haired pets do not collect
as much allergens on them as well, therefore distributing less
dander throughout the house. In addition, some cats and dogs
shed their fur every five to six months, while others, such
as a poodle or a and havanese do not shed at all. Take into
consideration that some breeds also drool and lick themselves
more than others, leaving a trail of dried saliva and dander
in their mist; In summary, you can love a short haired pet just
as much as loving a long haired one, but without the allergens
that cause you misery along the way. |
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| Q. |
Can
I cohabit along with my cat and dog? |
| A. |
It
is advised that cats and dogs remain outdoors if you are allergic
to them, otherwise you take the chance of developing allergies
from their dander and saliva. |
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| Q. |
How
do I rid my home of pet dander and other pet allergens? |
| A. |
Thoroughly
clean the animal's resting area while wearing a mask. Use a
HEPA filter in the bedroom to reduce the exposure of pet dander
while you sleep, and shampoo the rugs and furniture often. Other
ways to clear the air of an animals residuals include: · Dusting
your house often. · Washing your pet on a weekly basis. · Keep
a fresh flea collar on your pet to reduce the risk of in-home
fleas. · Wash the animals bedding in hot water at least 130
degrees Fahrenheit. |
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| Q. |
What
other animals besides cats and dogs cause similar allergic reactions? |
| A. |
Other
mammals including guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, and other small
rodents. Basically, it is the animals hair that causes the allergic
reactions. If you love these types of animals, there is no avoiding
the fact that these hairy animals shed their hair regularly,
Lick themselves, and deposit dried saliva as a result. |
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| Q. |
What
pets should I think about getting that are safe from spreading
allergens? |
| A. |
Reptiles
and fish do not cause allergic reactions because they have scales
instead of hair. |
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| Q. |
Is
there a medication I can take to block my allergic symptoms
to my cat? |
| A. |
Researchers
at Johns Hopkins University recently announced that Zaflirlukast
is a drug that significantly reduces the symptoms associated
with cat and other pet allergies. Available only in prescription
form, side effects include diarrhea, mouth dryness, and nausea.
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