Pets add fun and companionship to a child's life. But they can trigger allergies, too, posing special problems for kids who have
asthma.
Here's what families need to know about pets and allergies, including answers to the questions that pediatricians and allergy doctors hear most often.
What causes pet allergies?
Many parents assume that animal fur is the chief cause of sneezing, runny noses and itchy, watery eyes seen in kids. But surprisingly, fur isn't the issue. The real trigger: proteins found in small bits of pet skin, or
dander.
The major cat allergen is a protein called Felis domesticus allergen 1 (Fel d 1), produced primarily in the cat's skin and saliva. The major dog allergen is Canis familiaris allergen 1 (Can f 1), found in dog saliva, dander and urine. These proteins are extremely small and lightweight, which allows them to stay in the air a long time and attach to walls, clothing and other surfaces—even in homes and buildings where pets have never lived.
As dander from dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and other furry creatures floats through homes and other spaces (such as garages and barns), kids may breathe it in directly. Dander also settles on hard surfaces and works its way into soft materials in furniture, rugs, drapes, curtains and clothing. Pet saliva and urine carry allergens too, so cleaning up after your pet or welcoming a wet, sloppy kiss can trigger a reaction.
Are some dogs and cats allergy-friendly?
Ads for "hypoallergenic" dogs and cats can be misleading. In most cases, breeders and pet stores are describing animals that shed less. Although this might keep your house cleaner, it's not a full solution. All furry animals have dander that gets into the air and onto household surfaces. Saliva and urine from all breeds also carry allergens.
Why are kids with asthma more vulnerable to pet allergies?
Kids with
asthma have difficulty breathing when specific triggers are present. For example, they might struggle when they encounter
secondhand smoke, air pollution (including
wildfire smoke) and of course, pet dander. An estimated 10% of all people in the U.S. (including kids) might have pet allergies, but 25% to 65% of kids with persistent asthma show sensitivity to pet allergens.
What are the symptoms of pet allergies in children?
Kids with allergies to cats, dogs and other furry animals might suffer from:
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Facial pain from nasal congestion
Coughing, chest tightness or difficulty catching their breath
Wheezing (a whistling sound when they breathe)
Red, itchy, watery eyes
Red, itchy skin or
hives (raised bumps or welts on the skin)
Family pets aren't the only possible cause, since kids might pick up dander from a friend or neighbor's pet or a visit with grandparents, aunts and uncles who have cats or dogs. Children also come in contact with allergens at school, day care or on public transportation.
Are cats more likely than dogs to cause allergies?
Research shows that
cats are about twice as likely to trigger allergies as dogs. But the amount of contact your child has with your pet will matter, too. A cuddly rabbit that lives in their bedroom could cause severe symptoms. So could the dog that sleeps on the couch where your kids love to play video games.
Does washing a pet reduce allergy symptoms?
Bathing your pet weekly may make a modest difference in reducing airborne allergen levels. So, while it won't eliminate the problem, it can be part of allergy reducing tactic.
How are pet allergies diagnosed in children?
Even if you feel sure your child has a pet allergy, take them to the doctor. Testing can help rule out
other causes such as mold, tobacco smoke or dust mites
How do allergy tests work?
The most common test involves placing a small drop of fluid containing an animal allergen on your child's skin. A small, sterile probe is used to prick the skin, allowing a tiny amount to enter the body. (This might feel like getting a shot at the doctor's office.)
Your child's care team will watch the area for swelling, redness and other signs that could point to allergies. Results usually appear within 15 to 20 minutes. In some cases (when allergy medications cannot be stopped or child has widespread rash) a blood test may be ordered instead of the skin test. This test measures the level of allergy-related antibodies to specific pet allergens. Both skin prick and blood tests are reliable and your child's allergist can determine which is most appropriate.
If our child is allergic to furry animals, what should we do?
The most effective way to protect your child from allergens may be to find a new home for your pet. This might mean heartbreak and tears, but it eases the constant discomfort that active allergies can cause. If your child has asthma, keeping your child away from animals with fur may be the only way to prevent flare-ups.
If you can't bear to give up your pet—or you live near a farm or natural setting with many animals—talk with your child's medical team. Several medications can help manage pet allergy symptoms. Allergen
immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)are other treatment options many doctors suggest them as part of an allergy control strategy. Other steps that may help:
Making your child's room a critter-free zone.
Adding protective casings to your child's mattress and pillows.
Keeping pets off beds, couches and upholstered surfaces in other rooms.
Restricting animals to one area of your home or property.
A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum to trap dander more efficiently.
A HEPA air filter where your child sleeps.
Keeping your child away from pet bowls, beds, brushes, leashes and other tools.
Storing dirty laundry in one spot, away from your child's room.
We've done our best to get rid of allergy triggers. Why is our child still sick?
Even if you've rehomed your pet and thoroughly cleaned your home, you might notice your child still has allergy symptoms. This is because allergen levels fall very slowly in indoor spaces. Traces of pet dander, saliva and urine can hang around for weeks, even months.
In schools and public buildings, pet allergens are commonly found on surfaces and in air samples because they are carried on clothing. This 'passive transfer" means complete avoidance is nearly impossible. If you suspect your child may have a pet allergy, consider scheduling an evaluation with a board-certified pediatric allergist who can provide a thorough assessment and work with your family to create a treatment plan.
If your child still lives with animals but you're taking other steps, it may take significant time for your child to feel the difference. Professional home cleaning may help. Consider replacing rugs and upholstered furniture with washable options (and set a schedule for cleaning them). Replacing wall-to-wall carpet with tile or hardwood floors can help, too.
How can we choose a pet that won't trigger allergies?
There are plenty of fur-free animals that make fine pets. (Added bonus: many cost less to feed and care for than cats and dogs!) An aquarium filled with different varieties of fish might be fun for your child. Turtles, frogs, lizards and snakes offer more choices. Surf the web and page through books with your child to preview options. Here are
more tips for choosing the pet that's best for your family.
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