prize-winning cat Chester (Photo : Reuters)
A recent study indicates that about 12 percent of Americans are allergic to dog hair, and another 12 percent react to the allergens in cat fur. The good news is that animal lovers including those with dander allergies can still select man's "best friend," or other friendly creatures from pet shelters and shops.
It is important to note that there is no hypoallergenic pet. That is a dog or cat, for example, which does not cause an allergic reaction.
Such human responses are triggered by the proteins in the animals' skin and saliva. No cat or dog breeds lack them.
A study published in the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy confirmed that "hypoallergenic dogs" do not have fewer allergens than other canines and felines. However, breeds that shed less hair could cause fewer allergic reactions.
They include hybrid "designer breeds" such as the smart and cheerful Maltese Shih Tzu. It was bred to shed little hair, according to Irish Mirror.
Camille DeClementi, VMD is a veterinarian at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). She explained that individual dogs or cats within a certain breed might or might not cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny noses, and skin rashes, according to Yahoo Health. It is a case-by-case basis.
Dr. DeClementi recommends fostering a cat or dog, or spending some time with it at the animal shelter, before becoming its owner. That is better than selecting a certain type or breed.
It is highly recommended that people with severe pet allergies not own a cat or dog. However, those with mild allergies should keep their homes sparkling clean.
There are several helpful tools. They include a high-efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) vacuum, or HEPA air purifier to collect dander. In addition, bedrooms that are pet-free are also dander-free.
Other steps involve the home's furnishings and décor. People susceptible to pet allergy attacks should choose blinds over curtains, and hardwood floors over carpets. They are quite easy to wipe down.
Interestingly, some people who think they have pet allergies do not, as they might be allergic to pollen or mold that an outdoor cat or dog brings indoors. An allergist can find the root cause of the allergy.
