Animal-Related Allergens: Pets and Wildlife

Animal allergies are common, particularly in people with other allergies or asthma. People may have an allergy to any animal, especially those with fur or feathers. Signs of animal allergy include those common to hay fever, such as sneezing and runny nose. Some people may also experience asthma signs, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing.

Pet

Pet allergies are certain proteins (allergens) on pets that cause the allergic immune system to overreact. These allergens are in animal fur, skin, urine (pee) and saliva (spit). It's also in pet dander, which is tiny scales from pets' skin, hair or feathers. Most animal allergies result from a person coming into contact with cats and dogs.

The main cat allergen is a sticky substance produced by sebaceous glands in the cat's skin, that glues itself to dander, dust and all parts of the home. Cats often lick themselves and this helps spread cat allergen. Cat allergen can remain in the home for up to six months, and in the cat's bedding for up to four years. The allergen can also spread into other places including homes of people who do not own cats. As all cats have sebaceous glands, all cat breeds can cause allergies.

The main source of dog allergens is saliva, which can be spread by dander. All dog breeds cause allergies, although some do not shed as much dander, and therefore less allergen is spread.

Rodent pets include mice, gerbils, hamsters and guinea pigs. Allergens from rodents are usually present in hair, dander, saliva and urine. Rabbit allergens are present in dander, hair and saliva. Dust from litter or sawdust in the bottom of cages may contribute to airborne allergens from rodents.

Pet allergy is rarely caused by animals that don't have fur, such as fish and reptiles.