Saliva, skin, anal glands of pets (cat, dog, etc.) are allergen reservoirs. Cats would be responsible for 2/3 of allergies due to pets.
In patients allergic to cats and/or to dogs, the symptoms can be:
• rhinitis (runny nose, sneezing);
• conjunctivitis (red itchy eyes);
• asthma (chest tightness, wheezing, cough).
Risk of allergy remains for many years even after the animal has gone since allergenic particles are still present in carpets, on the sofas and in the curtains.
If symptoms are noticed, removing the animal obviously is the most effective treatment.
However, separation can be worse than the cure, if you do not want to part with your pet, take necessary precautions:
• wash your pet frequently with a suitable shampoo,
• brush it regularly outside your home,
• use vacuum twice a week,
• forbid it access to rooms.
When cleaning the house, remember to:
• open the window when you vacuum,
• if you have asthma, you can use vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters.