Pets Archives

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 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 wa 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!

Cheryl
The Allergy Store

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.

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

Allergy Control Products for Seasonal Allergy

When you think of allergy control products for seasonal allergies, the first thing that comes to mind is probably your antihistamine or your rescue inhaler. However, with judicious use of avoidance tactics and some other allergy control products, you may reduce your dependence on these medications.

Now, no one is advocating that you toss your prescription medications in the trash or tossing out your inhaler. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any changes in your allergy control program before you make them.

That being said, wouldn’t it be great to make it through the season without that darned ragweed ruining everything? So here are a few things you can do that won’t cost a dime. First, start visiting Pollen.Com on a regular basis to get your pollen forecast. They even have a mobile app for your smart phone! Plan your outdoor activities according to when pollen counts are expected to be low. Also, on those beautiful clear windy days, stay indoors and keep the doors and windows shut. Those are the prime times for pollens to be released. The opposite is true. Rainy and damp days are the best to be outside and right after a rain shower, airborne pollens will be at their lowest levels.

When it comes to allergy control products, if you are allergic to pollen, a mask is your best line of defense. If your job or personal activities require you to be outside during high pollen counts, protect yourself by wearing a mask. The Q-Mask is a perfect lightweight mask for protecting against pollen and it can be washed and used again and again.

The same indoor/outdoor rules go for your pet. Pets can carry loads of pollen on their fur and when they come inside, they spread it all about the house. This turns your pollen-free home into the great outdoors! If your pet must be outside on those high pollen count days, then groom them with Allerpet as soon as they come inside. The same solution that works to break down pet allergen works on pollen as well.

Speaking of pollen removal, when you come inside, change your clothes and wash your hair. That will get the pollen off of you. Don’t change clothes in the bedroom! That will just spread the pollen over the place in which you are going to sleep for 6 to 8 hours. Bad idea!

If you have a HEPA air cleaner like an Austin Air or an Alen Air, be sure that you keep them running. By following these simple tips you may have a more comfortable seasonal allergy season.

Til Next Time!

Cheryl
The Allergy Store