Being a pet lover with a confirmed allergy to animals is very ironic. But you stop laughing at your situation as you start suppressing sneezes and restraining sniffles. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or any other furry companion, your pet allergy symptoms may be too bothersome to still want to cuddle with your friend.
Good news: if you have a pet allergy but would never consider giving up on your buddy, or if someone in your household has brought home a furry cutie, you can adapt to manage those symptoms. Here’s how.
Clean it up to reduce dog or cat allergy triggers
You’ll want to add more tasks to your daily cleaning checklist if you own a dog or cat you’re allergic to. The dander that sets off your symptoms accumulates on rugs, pet beds, and even on the walls. Regularly mopping your floor and vacuuming those spots can help reduce triggers, making your cat or dog allergy more manageable.
Create a restricted pet zone
Playing with a non-shedding pet doesn’t mean you’re safe from allergic reactions (unless you own allergy-free pets like fish or reptiles). That’s why you should limit your contact by creating a designated place outside your bedroom where your pet can hang out.
Wash allergens off
Do you bathe your pet? If possible, try to do this every few days to reduce allergens on their fur and paws. If not, you should change your clothes and wash your hands after holding or otherwise interacting with the animal.
Get an air purifier with a HEPA filter
An air purifier is a smart investment for pet allergy relief. Installing one with a HEPA filter in your bedroom can help allergy-proof your place from dander and other airborne pollutants. You can have it running for 24 hours so that your indoor air quality is high even at night.
Take pet allergy medications
Medications are a must-have if you share your home with an animal you’re allergic to. Make sure you have the right nasal spray for your sneezes and sniffles, eye drops that contain antihistamines for itching, and corticosteroids for asthma-like symptoms.
Opt for immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a way to adjust to living with a pet without allergy medications. It helps you develop tolerance to the substances that cause your symptoms with a series of allergen-containing shots. Like meds, this animal allergy treatment isn’t for everyone and must be discussed with your allergist.
Combine these medical and practical at-home tips, and animals won’t make you suffer.