What are the other Names of this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Allergy to Pets
• Cat Allergy
• Dog Allergy

What is Pet Allergy? (Definition/Background Information)

• Pet Allergy is a condition that manifests as an abnormal immune reaction/response on contact with the fur, skin, or saliva of a pet cat or dog. The greater the exposure and the greater the number of pets, the greater are the chances of an allergic reaction. Pets of other mammalian species, including rabbits and other rodents, can also cause Pet Allergies
• Cats are more prone to causing allergies than dogs, although it also depends on the sensitivity level or vulnerability of the individual. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), no cats or dogs are reported to be “truly hypoallergenic”, meaning that exposure to all breeds of cat and dog can cause allergies
• The number of allergens are usually multiple (more than one) and may include hair/fur, saliva, direct skin contact, urine, feces, and other material shed from the body (dander). Pets can be a source of constant allergy, whether at home or work, even though the pet is not always present in the vicinity
• The respiratory system is typically affected, since the particulates are inhaled/breathed in. Pet scratches/licks may cause allergic skin rashes in some individuals. The signs and symptoms of the allergic reaction may include runny nose, sneezing, and breathing difficulties
• Pet Allergy may result in usually mild, and sometimes, severe symptoms. They are generally diagnosed by conducting a physical examination, assessing the symptoms, and via an antibody blood test or a skin-prick test
• Anti-allergic medications form the first line of treatment for mild Pet Allergies. Respiratory symptoms may be addressed using nasal sprays and bronchodilators. However, in the case of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), epinephrine injections are recommended
• The prognosis of Pet Allergy is generally good with adequate treatment, although the condition can recur on further exposure. Awareness of such allergies and taking steps to minimize exposure to pets is the best form of prevention

Who gets Pet Allergy? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Pet Allergies can occur in both children and adults. Individuals of any age may be affected
• No gender preference is noted and both males and females are affected
• All racial and ethnic groups are equally vulnerable to the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Pet Allergy? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Pet Allergy include:

• Having pets at home that include dogs, cats, and other animals (rabbits, mice, squirrels, or horses); the more the number of pets, the greater is the risk
• Playing with pets, hugging, kissing, maintaining regular physical contact with them; the more the time spent with them, the higher is the risk
• Pets having access to indoor spaces (including bedrooms), particularly spaces that are poorly-ventilated
• Family history of an associated allergy
• Having one form of allergy puts one at risk for other forms

The following factors are not known to play a significant role in increasing the risk for a Pet Allergy in individuals who possess dogs and cats:

• Sex of the animal
• Fur characteristics, length or profile of the hair
• Whether the cat or dog spends most of its time indoors or outdoors
• Breed of the pet (even though some breeds have a higher chance of causing the condition than others, there are no completely “allergen-free” pets)

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Pet Allergy? (Etiology)

An allergic reaction occurs in an individual with Pet Allergy, because the immune system recognizes the animal material (allergens that include fur, urine, or saliva) as being dangerous and harmful to the body.

• Exposure to these substances results in the production of antibodies, specifically immunoglobulin E (IgE). The next and each subsequent time the individual is exposed to the pet animal, the antibodies that are circulating in blood causes an antibody-antigen reaction
• This results in the production of histamine and other chemical messengers, which cause the symptoms seen during an allergic reaction
• The extent of exposure that triggers an allergy may not be significantly large. Sometimes, mild or minor contact with the allergen is sufficient to trigger Pet Allergy

In some rare cases, a severe allergic reaction termed as anaphylaxis may occur, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pet Allergy?

The signs and symptoms of Pet Allergy may start to appear within a few minutes, to a couple of hours, after the individual has been exposed to the allergenic material. Depending on the level of sensitivity and quantum of exposure, the symptoms may be mild or severe. A severe allergic reaction is a medical emergency.

The signs and symptoms of Pet Allergy (whether dogs or cats) may include:

• Coughing, sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose; nasal congestion may cause facial pain
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath (trouble breathing), wheezing
• Headaches
• Asthma-like symptoms; in individuals with asthma or other lung conditions, Pet Allergy can make it worse
• Watery eyes, redness, and irritation; conjunctivitis like symptoms
• Irritation of the throat

Generally, not all episodes of allergy will be of the same severity. In some individuals, the most severe symptom caused by Pet Allergy is anaphylaxis. However, this is very rare.

• Anaphylaxis (sometimes called an anaphylactic shock) is a life-threatening, whole-body allergic reaction
• During anaphylaxis, tissues in various body parts release histamine and other messenger chemicals, which causes swelling of the throat and other symptoms
• Swelling of the throat is especially dangerous as this can cause shortness of breath. If the swelling is not reduced soon, then there is a possibility that the individual could die from a lack of sufficient oxygen
• It can also result in a bluish skin, weak pulse, and decreased blood pressure (hypotension)

How is Pet Allergy Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Pet Allergy may involve the following:

• Physical examination, assessment of symptoms, and medical history evaluation (history of allergies in the family)
• Radioallergosorbent (RAS) test; to determine the specific allergy-causing substance
• Skin-prick (allergy) test:
  • For this test, tiny amounts of certain substances are applied to the skin surface and scratched into the superficial skin, or injected right underneath the skin (forearm, upper arm, or back)
  • After 15-20 minutes, if the spot where the chemical was injected swells, or if there is redness noticed, then this indicates that the individual may be allergic to the substance
• Blood test to detect antibodies (IgE antibody test)

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Pet Allergy?

The complication of Pet Allergy is associated with the allergic reaction itself and it depends on the severity of the reaction. It may include:

• Anaphylactic shock/reaction that may be life-threatening
• Having one form of allergy can make the individual prone to other allergy types
• In severe reactions, a tracheostomy may have to be performed during an emergency situation

How is Pet Allergy Treated?

The treatment of Pet Allergy may be undertaken in the following manner:

• Avoid further exposure to the pet dog, cat, or other pets
• Anti-allergic medication for mild reactions; antihistamine therapy, that is prescribed by the allergy physician
• Symptomatic treatment; use of decongestants, especially for nose block including steroid sprays, use of eye ointments for eye symptoms
• Breathing support as necessary, control asthma symptoms and low blood pressure
• Bronchodilators for respiratory conditions such as asthma, wheezing, etc.
• Undertake appropriate treatment for any underlying lung infections or illnesses
• In the case of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), epinephrine or adrenaline is immediately administered
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots), in case of severe allergies, for long-term tolerance development

How can Pet Allergy be Prevented?

It may not be possible to prevent Pet Allergy, but the condition may be minimized by the following steps:

• If allergic to pets, avoid them to the extent possible, else minimize contact with them
• Limit access of spaces to the pet: Avoid allowing them free access around the house; do not allow them inside bedrooms
• Avoid kissing or hugging pets; do not let them lick you on the face or nose
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after contact with pets, especially before eating
• Avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes involuntarily after physical contact with pets
• Give regular baths to pets (at least once a week)
• Trim hair and nails of pets, as necessary
• Ensure regular vaccination shots (per vet advise)
• Clean the indoor spaces regularly of fur and other animal deposits/secretions; use high-power vacuum cleaners on room carpets, mattresses, and sofas
• Use better efficiency air-conditioning filters (such as HEPA filters)
• Keep outdoor garden backyard spaces properly cleaned and well-maintained; mow lawns regularly, cut tall and wild grass

Additionally, the following may be considered:

• Studies have shown that breastfeeding children for 4-6 months or over, can help build their body immunity and make them less prone to allergies
• Appropriate maternal diet during pregnancy can help build stronger resistance (against allergies) in children
• Generating public awareness on various allergies

In case the child or adult is susceptible to an anaphylactic shock (high-risk individuals) from Pet Allergy, the following should be considered:

• Being watchful of triggers and avoid them
• Wearing medical alert information bracelets
• Carry auto-injector epinephrine or adrenaline medications such as EpiPen, Anapen, or Twinject. Since the condition may recur, it is advised to carry 2 doses (2 pens)
• Supervise children on how to self-administer the injection, if required
• If child is prone to anaphylactic reaction, then information (preferably written instructions) should be given to day care, school authorities accordingly
• Adults should inform their spouses, colleagues, and friends, about the condition, in case of a future emergency

What is the Prognosis of Pet Allergy? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Pet Allergy depends on the severity of the signs and symptoms, but it is generally good with appropriate treatment. However, the condition can recur following exposure to pet(s)
• In some rare cases, the allergic reaction may be severe, causing anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency that can lead to a respiratory failure. It requires an immediate treatment of the condition. In such cases, the prognosis is guarded and it depends on whether immediate medical assistance is provided

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Pet Allergy:

Pets may also carry pollen, dust, mold from outdoors and be indirectly causing an allergy; hence, it is important to identify the source of allergy.