Pollen Allergy and Cats

Had an interesting conversation with a customer a few days ago about pollen allergy and cats.

This woman had several cats.  She is not allergic to cats.  However, she started having a problem that seemed to be caused by the cats.  They had no problems with regular cuddle time or sleeping with her.  She had no allergy symptoms after these activities. However, when she let the kitties out in the morning and then brought them back in later, she noticed that she couldn’t pet them without sneezing and getting watery eyes.  She started trying to connect her pollen allergy and her cats.

She wondered if the cats could possibly bring in mold spores (she is highly allergic to mold) or pollen (she is allergic to pollen) on their fur.  Of course!  Pet coats are perfect for collecting mold spores and pollen.

That is why we always recommend keeping pets inside on windy or high pollen count days. We know the connection between mold and pollen allergy and cats.  Did you?

She inquired if there is a cat allergy spray she could use to take care of the “not-cat” allergens that were collecting on the cats.  Of course!

Allerpet is not a spray, but it is perfect for taking care of these and any other allergens on the cat.  It is also a great coat conditioner.  Not only will you have an allergy-free cat, but you will have a shiny cat as well.

The same goes for dogs.  If your dog goes outside, it will bring those outdoor allergens inside.  Rover can spread pollen and mold all over the house.  Allerpet works for dogs as well.

So don’t blame cat allergy if the cat makes you sneeze.  It might just be something the cat is wearing.

Til next time!

Allergies – Know the Enemy – Pet Allergy

Not too long ago I read an article where it said that a large majority of people who have a pet allergy also own a pet. I know it is a fact because our daughter owns two cats and pet allergy and dust mite allergy.

Dogs, Cats, And Other Furry Animals = Pet Allergy

Many animals such as horses, goats, and rabbits can be allergy-causing.  But because they live so closely with us, household pets are the most common source of allergic reactions to animals.

Many people think that their pet allergy is provoked by the fur of cats and dogs. But researchers have found that the major allergens are proteins secreted by oil glands in the animals’ skin and shed in dander as well as proteins in their saliva and urine, which sticks to the fur when the animal licks itself or empties its bladder.pet allergy is a problem for some pet owners

People have always said that when it comes to allergies, cats are worse than dogs.  We now know that it is because cats lick themselves more than dogs, thereby spreading allergen-laden saliva all over their bodies. In addition, cats may be held more and spend more time in the house, close to humans.

Urine is also a source of allergy-causing proteins. When the substance carrying the proteins dries, the proteins can then float into the air. Some rodents, such as guinea pigs and gerbils, have become increasingly popular as household pets. They, too, can cause allergic reactions in some people, as can mice and rats.

Urine is the major source of allergens from these animals. Allergies to animals can take two years or more to develop and may not subside until six months or more after ending contact with the animal.

Carpet and furniture are a reservoir for pet allergens, and the allergens can remain in them for four to six weeks. In addition, these allergens can stay in the household air for months after the animal has been removed.

Therefore, it is wise for people with a pet allergy to check with the landlord or previous owner to find out if furry pets have lived previously on the premises before they make a decision to rent or buy a new home.

Think there is such a thing as “Allergy Free Dogs”.  Not really but there are some breeds that are better

Up Next – Public Enemy #4 – Mold

Till next time

Cheryl
Allergy Store – Helping customers since 1989
800 771-2246

Pet Grooming to Control Allergies

If you have allergies to your pets you know it is important to keep them groomed.  Regular grooming reduces the amount of loose skin particles (dander) and hair available to be shed.  The actual allergy causing agent is a protein that is found in the saliva and urine of animals.  However, as they lick themselves and empty their bladder, this protein adheres to the skin and fur and is just ready to flake off and become airborne where you can inhale it and become sick.  So, think of pet grooming to control allergies as nothing more than controlled shedding.  You are removing the bits before they fall off on their own and stick to your belongings. You are deciding where and when the shedding will happen!

What are the proper tools and procedures for pet grooming to control allergies?  Is it different from standard pet grooming?

While grooming needs vary depending on your pets breed, at a minimum you should brush your pet at least once a week.  Not only is it good for your allergies, it is also good for your pet.  If your pet likes to be brushed (I have one cat that loves it and one that hates it), it is also a great opportunity to spend time together.  Your pets skin (like your own) is the largest organ of the body.  Regular brushing will spread oils, remove dead skin and dander, and keep fur from becoming matted.  It also stimulates the skin and makes the pet feel good (except for our one cat that hates being held).

If you aren’t sure what kind of brush to use, talk to your vet or a local groomer at one of the big box pet stores. They can direct you to the right brush for your pets fur.  Our cats get brushed with a soft bristle brush as they both have short to medium length hair that is not coarse.  I brush first with the lay of the fur and then against it. I am really gentle around the face.  I don’t brush near the eyes because they really don’t like it.  But one cat is crazy for being brushed on the cheeks and belly.

If you use Allerpet coat conditioner, this is a great time to apply it.  After you are finished brushing the animal, just rub them down with a rag moistened with the Allerpet pet allergen eliminating solution.  It will work to remove any of the bits of protein that weren’t removed by brushing.  As a bonus, it will make the pets fur very soft and shiny.   See our very own Rory, a Shiny Black Cat., after her application of Allerpet/C.  Now that is one shiny black cat!

If you are extremely sensitive to your pets, it might help to get a family member or friend to do the grooming.

Remember, grooming alone won’t stop your allergic reactions, but anything you can do to reduce your exposure to allergens will reduce your reactions. That’s a good thing for both you and your pet, and that’s nothing to sneeze at!

Til Next Time

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