Pet Allergies

As pet owners, most of us would endure just about anything for the love of our furry friends, including our allergies to them. At Buellton Animal Clinic in Buellton, CA, we often hear stories of how our pet owners are suffering from allergic reactions to them. While our state-of-the-art animal hospital can only treat your furry friends' conditions and focus on pet wellness, we can advise you on how to cut down on pet dander to relieve some of your symptoms. Read on for more information and some useful tips.

What Causes Cat and Dog Allergies?

Many of us assume that the culprit is fur when it comes to allergies. While it doesn't help, the actual cause is a reaction to proteins on social media cells that are found in saliva and urine, so the dried flakes of skin can get caught in fur and cause a reaction. It's not fur itself. These skin flakes are commonly known as dander and can become airborne and end up all over your home.

Symptoms of Dog and Cat Allergies

The symptoms and severity of pet allergies will vary from person to person. But you may experience one or more of the following:

•   Sneezing
•   Coughing
•   Runny nose
•   Scratchy throat
•   Itchy nose
•   Watery and itchy eyes
•   Wheezing
•   Difficulty breathing
•   Skin irritation
•   Hives
•   Nasal congestion
•   Swollen eyes and lips

If you love animals but not these symptoms, you may want to consider hypoallergenic pets. Though these pets, like the Devon Rex cat and poodles, are not guaranteed to prevent allergies, they produce much lower levels of the protein that causes allergic reactions. They also have less fur and don't shed as much as other animals.

How To Find Pet Allergy Relief

Studies have shown that being exposed to pets at an early age can help prevent allergies. But if that doesn't work out for you, these tips can help you cut down on allergens caused by your furry friend.

•   Wash your pet 1–2 times per week
•   Make the bedroom a “no pet” area
•   Brush and comb your pet regularly
•   Clean air filters regularly
•   Give your pet a supplement like fish oil that will moisturize its skin

When all else fails, there are several over-the-counter allergy medications that may help. You can also consult with your doctors for allergy shots that can offer relief.

Contact A Veterinarian Near You

If you need a kind and caring vet in the Buellton area, we invite you to visit us at Buellton Veterinary Clinic. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Give us a call or contact us through our website.