Pet Allergens - Dog, Cat and Birds Hypoallergenic Pets

by Natural Solutions Environmental, Inc. (with input from Harley (our mascot), and his little brother Elvis. Golden American Pure Breed Cocker Spaniels)

Dog and Cat Allergens!

Go to Birds!

Two Common misconceptions: Are there any hypoallergenic pets? NO! (Not unless they have NO skin and Dander...) Can you be allergic to Pet Hair? NOT REALLY! Why not????? Wheezing, itching, and sneezing! This is what more than 30 percent of cat, dog and pet owners and their family who are allergic to their pets face. Pet allergens are a real problem for many people. To this day, people believe that they are allergic to their pets "hair". The fact of the matter is, pet hair itself is not the allergenic! It is a protein called Fel d 1 and ALL cats produce it, although in differing amounts. Dogs produce a protein called Can f 1. These proteins Fel d 1 (Felis domesticus) and Can f 1 (Canis familiaris) are found in the saliva and skin of all cats and dogs respectively. It is constantly being shedded as an airborne particle and is one-tenth the size of a spec of dust. When a cat or dog grooms itself (licking their fur), some of the protein is transferred to the hair. When the hair is shedded, some becomes airborne and can become an irritant to the respiratory tract of individuals who suffer from asthma and other airway diseases. This is why people to this day will say they are allergic to pet hair. Pet hair is only a vehicle used by the pet protein (Fel d 1 and Can f 1)  to get into the air. Also, after a cat or dog has groomed  (licking their fur) and the saliva has dried, the protein becomes airborne itself. Because the particles are so tiny, they can actually hang in the air and stay suspended for very long periods of time. In some cases it has been found in the air of homes up to 6 months after the pet had been removed. Because these proteins are sticky, they will adhere to porous materials such as carpets, furniture, draperies and bedding. While they are floating in the air, they may also attach themselves to ceilings and walls. House dust, as well as pollen and dander, may become attached to these proteins as well making the protein itself become the vehicle used for these other allergens to get in the air and inhaled. If your pet has allergies, or conditions of it's own that causes excessive scratching or grooming (licking their fur), it will simply make the protein in the air a larger problem. For allergy and asthma suffers, this can mean even more severe of more frequent reactions. An allergy to pets can develop at any time, even if the same pet has lived with you for years. Cats are the worst offenders, with dogs running a close second. If you are like most pet owners, the thought of removing your pet from the house is not the answer you are looking for. Try to create an "allergy free" zone in your home, preferably the bedroom, and strictly prohibit the pet's access to it. Use a high-efficiency HEPA air cleaner such as the IQAir Healthpro Plus or Austin Air HealthMate in the bedroom. Also, consider using impermeable bed covers for the mattress and pillows because allergen particles brought into the room on clothes can accumulate on them. Another misconception is that isolating your pet to one room will limit the allergens to that room. This is NOT TRUE! Air currents from forced-air heating and air-conditioning will spread the allergens throughout your house. Homes with forced-air heating and/or air-conditioning may be fitted with a Central HEPA air cleaner. This may remove a significant amount of pet allergens from the homes air. Replace throw-away filters with a more efficient filter such as the Envirosept Panel. Use a high-efficient HEPA air cleaner in the main room of the house such as the living room. If you can, remove ALL carpeting in the house. Also change all cloth covered blinds and drapes to non-cloth covered types. Use a vacuum cleaner made for pets. The Dyson DC07 Cyclone Animal Upright Vacuum is an excellent vacuum cleaner. If your pet is licking itself often or scratching itself often it may be time for a bath. Only use shampoo designed for pets. Other reasons that your pet is scratching may be that they have an allergy to something as well. Cat litter boxes should be placed in an area unconnected to the air supply for the rest of the home. This is usually in the kitchen or bathroom. Check out a product called Allerpet. I use this product and highly recommend it! Another product I use is called Buddy Wash and Buddy Rince from Cloud Star. Dog Shampoo that leaves a light and refreshing lavender mint scent that we love. Coconut oil and natural ingredients provide a non-irritating bathing experience for your dog. I use this product and highly recommend it! There is even a Buddy Splash for use between baths for your dog keeping him smelling nice and fresh!

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