If you're an animal who suffers from pet-related allergies, you shouldn't have to choose between being symptom-free and living with a furry friend. Fortunately, with some careful preparation and a few helpful tricks, you can have the best of both worlds.
Before you install that doggy door, check out these eight vital tips for living with allergies and animals.
1. Be vigilant about washing your hands
Keep your ingestion of allergens to a minimum by routinely washing your hands throughout the day, especially after coming in direct contact with animals. Even if you're taking precautions not to touch your pets, remember that their dander, hair and saliva is present throughout your house, noted Vet Street. As such, you should aim to scrub your hands with soap and warm water as often as possible.
2. Make your bedroom a pet-free zone
It's important to maintain spaces in your house that are completely off-limits to your pets where you can find allergen-free refuge. The most natural location is your bedroom, since sleeping on pet hair-covered pillows and blankets is bound to trigger an allergic reaction. In case your pets sneak their way into your private space – or you let them inside in a moment of weakness – it's also smart to use allergy bedding. Hypoallergenic sheets, linens, comforters and mattresses can further reduce your risk of sneezing your way through the night. Reduce your pets' temptations to hop into your bed by providing them with their own sleeping areas and always keeping your door locked.
3. Opt for carpet-free floors
Rugs and carpets are magnets for dander and pet hair, making them a household hazard for allergy sufferers living alongside their animals. As such, PETA recommended choosing hardwood, tile, or linoleum flooring instead, since these materials can be easily cleaned and swept. If you don't want to give up your decorative floor coverings, consider buying washable rugs or establishing a consistent vacuuming schedule.
4. Bring in allergen air purifiers
Another simple step you can take to reduce allergens in your home is to add air purifiers in rooms where pets are allowed. Purifiers work to catch airborne irritants before you're able to inhale them, greatly improving the air quality in your home. To make sure your purifiers are operating at optimum effectiveness, be sure to check filters regularly and replace them as needed.
5. Put someone else on cleaning duty
When living with an animal you're allergic to, keeping your home clean is an essential part of managing your symptoms. Unfortunately, activities like sweeping and vacuuming kick up lots of dust and dirt before they can get rid of them, which means you could be hit with an allergy attack before you even finish your chores. As such, you should always have a non-allergic family member or friend take care of any cleaning that could involve pet allergens. If you're having a hard time redistributing household duties, try making a chore wheel or chart to help you manage tasks.
6. Embrace pet clothing
If you've always thought that outfitting your pet in tiny shirts, vests or jackets was silly, think again. Putting an extra layer between you and your animal's fur is actually a great – and stylish – way to keep your allergy symptoms to a minimum. Vet Street noted that in addition to acting as a safeguard for petting and cuddling, animal clothes also help pets pick up fewer outdoor allergens when they're rolling in the grass and playing at the park. If your pet is hesitant to embrace his or her new wardrobe, ask your veterinarian for advice on how to keep your furry friend comfortable.
7. Make bathtime a regular occurrence
According to the Humane Society, allergy sufferers should aim to bathe their four-legged companions once per week. Baths allow you to wash away dry skin and loose hairs that could otherwise spread throughout your house and trigger your allergies. Coercing your cat into a bath may be a tricky process, as felines are typically averse to water, so consult with your vet about tips and best practices for cleaning cats. The source noted that cats and kittens may also require special shampoo, so be sure to do your research and talk to your vet.
8. Get on an allergy control medication regimen
One of the best defenses against animal allergens is allergy control medication, which can help significantly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you're unsure which type of medication is right for you, talk to your doctor about your specific symptoms and pet breeds to figure out which solution will work best for you.
