How To Reduce Your Allergies To Cats And Dogs
Posted on: 10 September 2014
Whether you've always dreamed of having a dog or a cat or you've recently moved in with a significant other who can't get rid of their beloved furry friend, there are times when you just can't seem to avoid cats and dogs. When this occurs, you may need to take certain steps to reduce your allergies.
Groom Your Pet Regularly
Brushing your pet will take out any excess fur, which contains the allergens that cause you to have an allergic reaction. Special brushes can be purchased through your local pet store or veterinarian which pull out fur effectively, thus requiring less by way of actual brushing.
Do Not Shave Your Pet
Many people shave or clip their pet in the hopes of reducing their allergies, but this usually has no effect or, occasionally, the opposite effect. The allergens that come off of a pet do not come off of their fur but rather their skin and their saliva. When you shave your pet, you make it so that these allergens spread around rather than being captured in fur. Furthermore, the fur that is there will be shorter and harder to pick up through vacuuming and brushing.
Vacuum Frequently
You may be surprised to find out just how much pet fur can fall from your pet to your carpeting and upholstery within a single day. If you have allergies, it's important for you to vacuum frequently to ensure that fur, dust and allergens do not build up to critical levels. You may also want to purchase a vacuum specifically intended for those with pets.
Use Pet Wipes
Pet wipes can be used as an alternative to bathing. These pet wipes will wipe allergens from the surface of your pet's fur. Bathing your pet too frequently is a bad idea because bathing strips your pet of their natural skin oils. All this will do is encourage your pet's skin to produce more oils rather than eliminate them. It may also irritate your pet's skin if done frequently. Because pet wipes do not actually touch the pet's skin, it will not do this.
If you're still very allergic to your cat or dog, you may want to consult a veterinarian. Certain skin issues could cause a dog or cat to provoke more allergies, such as dandruff. These issues can sometimes be dealt with through a combination of supplements, a healthy diet and topical solutions like shampoos.
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