What Is Pet Dander and How Do You Reduce It?
Pets are an essential part of family life. However, when a pet releases dander and triggers allergies, it can pose problems.
But, what is pet dander?
To comprehend the issues caused and how to solve these dilemmas, we’ll delve into what it looks like, the signs you’re allergic to it, and how to prevent it.
Pet Dander — What Is It?
Pet dander is the term for the dead, dry skin that sheds from animals. This skin flies into the air and settles all over your house. Pet dander is produced by a wide variety of species, including furry and feathered animals — birds, rabbits, hamsters, etc. — contrary to popular belief that only cats and dogs can produce it.
It’s exceedingly simple for dander to become airborne — because it’s so minute and light. Likewise, it’s easily inhaled by individuals. The ragged edges of these dried skin particles are perfect for sticking to carpets and furniture, where they remain until they’re disturbed again and propelled into the air.
What Does Pet Dander Look Like?
Dog dander is very similar to that of other animals with furry coats. However, this dander has a long retention time in the air after becoming airborne.
Statista estimates that 69 million households in the US have at least one dog. Unfortunately, 10 to 20 percent of the world’s population suffers from dog allergies, which is a prevalent cause of asthma and allergic rhinitis.
What Is Dog Dander?
Dog dander is very similar to that of other animals with furry coats. However, this dander has a long retention time in the air after becoming airborne.
Statista estimates that 69 million households in the US have at least one dog. Unfortunately, 10 to 20 percent of the world’s population suffers from dog allergies, which is a prevalent cause of asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Pet Dander Allergy Symptoms
Although the signs of a pet dander allergy might differ slightly from person to person, the following are the most typical:
- Stuffy or blocked nose.
- Nasal mucus.
- Itchy, red, watery eyes.
- Coughing.
- Sneezing.
- Itchy throat or nose.
In addition to the above, those who have asthma and a pet dander allergy may also experience other symptoms — breathing difficulties, chest pain or tightness, and wheezing.
How To Get Rid of Pet Dander
Here are a few tips and tricks for managing pet dander allergies:
- Know your allergies: It’s crucial to visit your doctor and get tested to find out what allergies you have. A test can prove whether you’re allergic to pet dander and how sensitive you are.
- Establish an allergy-free area in your home: By creating an area where your pet is not allowed, you can prevent exposure to allergens from your animal. This should ideally be your bedroom.
- Bathe your pet once a week: Bathing your pet weekly can help them shed their dead skin cells, thus reducing the quantity of pet dander they produce. You must use pet-friendly products — not your own regular shampoo.
- Clean your home periodically: This will help reduce the accumulation of dust and pet dander on your furnishings. Steer your pets away from rugs and upholstery, and wash your couch coverings, cushions, drapes, and pet beds frequently.
- Look for therapies: For symptom relief, consult your allergist or physician about immunotherapy, antihistamine tablets, or antihistamine nose sprays.
- Utilize an air purifier: These devices can help lower the number of allergens in the air, which is a common approach to how to reduce pet dander. There are air purifiers developed expressly with pets in mind, while any high-performance air purifier would be a worthwhile addition.
Conclusion
You can’t imagine not spending time with your pets — let’s face it, they bring joy into our daily lives. But, now you’re aware of what is pet dander and the ways to manage it. So, you can continue living in harmony with your pet without having to worry about triggering your allergies.
