When people talk about pet allergies, they're usually referring to an allergy to pet dander. But what exactly is dander? And why does it cause allergies?

What is Dander from Pets?

What is Pet Dander?

Pet dander is a mixture of tiny flakes of skin, saliva, and urine that animals shed. It's so small that you can't see it with the naked eye. Dander is constantly being released into the air, so it can be difficult to avoid if you're allergic to it.

What Causes Pet Allergies?

Pet allergies are caused by a reaction to the proteins found in pet dander. When someone with a pet allergy inhales these proteins, their body's immune system overreacts and produces antibodies to fight them off. This can cause a number of symptoms, including sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and a scratchy throat.

How Can I Tell if I'm Allergic to Pet Dander?

If you think you might be allergic to pet dander, there are a few things you can do to find out for sure. First, spend some time around animals to see if you start to experience any allergy symptoms. If you do, you can talk to your doctor about getting an allergy test. An allergy test can confirm whether or not you're allergic to pet dander.

How Can I Reduce My Exposure to Pet Dander?

If you're allergic to pet dander, there are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure to it:

  • Avoid contact with animals as much as possible.
  • If you must be around animals, wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
  • Keep your home clean and free of pet hair and dander.
  • Use a HEPA filter in your home's heating and cooling system.
  • Bathe your pet regularly.

Conclusion

Pet allergies can be a nuisance, but they can be managed. By taking steps to reduce your exposure to pet dander, you can help to reduce your allergy symptoms.