Cat and dog allergies might be more common than you think, affecting nearly three in 10 people in the United States. If you are one of them, you are probably interested in finding the best way to manage your dog or cat's allergy symptoms.
We spoke with two board-certified allergists to better understand what causes a cat or dog allergy, and to learn which dog and cat allergy treatments can help reduce symptoms so you and your furry friend can continue to coexist.
Key takeaways
- Allergies to cats and dogs are common, affecting nearly 30% of the U.S. population.
- Symptoms of dog and cat allergies may include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, coughing, wheezing, and skin rashes.
- Treatment often involves a combination of medications and environmental changes.
- With good management, many people can still live with pets even if they have allergies.
- Always talk to your doctor if you have concerns about pet allergies.
What causes cat and dog allergies?
Although it's common to associate dog and cat allergies with fur, Anupama Kewalramani, MD, a board-certified allergist and immunologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center, explains that proteins found in animal dander (shed skin cells), saliva and urine are the real culprits.
These proteins are harmless to most people, but in individuals predisposed to allergies, they can trigger an excessive immune response.
“When someone genetically predisposed to allergies is exposed, their immune system mistakenly labels these harmless proteins as threats and releases chemicals like histamine,” says Kara Wada, MD, a board-certified allergy immunologist. “This immune response is what causes allergy symptoms.”
Dog and Cat Allergy Symptoms
The most common symptoms of a dog or cat allergy affect the respiratory system, says Dr. Wada, and may include:
For some people, especially those with asthma, symptoms may also include:
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Wheezing
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chest tightness
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Shortness of breath
Skin reactions, such as rashes after petting a dog or cat, can also be a sign of allergies. Exposure to animal proteins can trigger hives or eczema in sensitive people.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), pet allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on a person's sensitivity and level of exposure.
Dr. Wada recommends seeing a doctor if your symptoms persist, seem to be getting worse, or interfere with sleep or daily activities.
Breathing difficulties or asthma flare-ups related to pet allergies should always be evaluated by a doctor immediately.
Treatment and relief of dog and cat allergies
Not everyone with a cat or dog allergy needs to remove their pet from the house. Dr. Kewalramani says that for many people, combining management strategies can reduce allergy symptoms.
Here are the most common ways to treat dog and cat allergies.
Drugs
To help control pet allergy symptoms, you can use medications such as:
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Antihistamineswhich block histamine released by the immune system. Antihistamines can help with congestion, runny nose, relieve itchy eyes, and reduce rashes.
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Steroid nasal sprayswhich reduce stuffy noses and swollen nasal passages
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Asthma inhalerswhich help open the airways or reduce inflammation during allergic reactions
Keeping your environment clean
Reducing exposure to proteins that cause pet allergies starts with regular cleaning. Vacuuming regularly with a HEPA-filtered vacuum can help capture pet dander and other allergens.
Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can also help remove allergenic airborne proteins, says Dr. Kewalramani.
Dr. Wada also recommends washing your hands after touching your cat or dog to prevent the spread of allergens to sensitive areas like your eyes or nose.
Animal-free zones
Creating pet-free spaces in your home can be helpful in managing allergies.
“Most people spend at least eight hours in their bedroom, so making the bedroom pet-free (including keeping the door closed at all times) can provide the person allergic to animals with a safe, allergen-free space,” says Dr. Kewalramani.
You may also decide to keep your pets off the couch or your favorite chair. Since allergens tend to cling to soft, upholstered surfaces, Dr. Kewalramani also suggests removing rugs and carpets from your home.
Immunotherapy
For long-term symptom relief, you may consider immunotherapy. Allergy shots administered by an allergist gradually train the immune system to become less reactive to pet allergens, Dr. Wada says.
Are hypoallergenic pets good for allergies?
First of all, it is important to know that no cat or dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic. All animals produce allergenic proteins in their skin, saliva and coat.
That said, some breeds marketed as “hypoallergenic,” such as poodles or Sphynx cats, may produce lower levels of certain allergy-inducing proteins and may be better tolerated by some allergy sufferers, says Dr. Wada.
Since reactions vary greatly from person to person, Dr. Wada recommends spending time with the animal in question before adoption rather than choosing a breed based on “hypoallergenic” claims.
Animal Allergy FAQs
Can you live with a pet if you are allergic?
Yes. “Many people can live with pets if their allergies are mild to moderate and well managed,” says Dr. Wada. Successful management generally involves a multi-tiered approach to allergy management, which may include medications, environmental controls, and immunotherapy.
Why am I suddenly allergic to my dog?
“Allergies can develop at any time of life,” says Dr. Wada. Hormonal changes, immune system changes, viral infections, or increased exposure to an allergen can all contribute to allergy symptoms, even after years of living with a pet.
What happens if you ignore pet allergies?
Ignoring pet allergies can lead to chronic inflammation. Dr. Kewalramani notes that persistent nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing can affect quality of life.
Over time, untreated allergies can also cause inflammation of the lower respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and, in severe cases, visits to the emergency room.
