Can You Be Allergic to Your Pet Even If You Have Had Them for Years?

You have lived with your dog or cat for years without a problem. Then suddenly you start waking up congested, sneezing around the house or noticing itchy eyes.

Can you really become allergic to a pet you have lived with for a long time?

Yes, it is possible. Allergies can develop at different points in life, even after years of being around the same type of animal.

What Actually Causes a Pet Allergy?

A common misconception is that people are allergic to pet hair.

The hair itself is usually not the main problem.

People with pet allergies react to proteins found in things such as:

• Skin flakes, often called dander
• Saliva
• Urine

These proteins can collect on the animal's fur and spread around the home.

They can also become airborne and settle on furniture, bedding, carpets and clothing.

Why Would an Allergy Start Years Later?

Your immune system can change over time.

You may be exposed to an allergen many times before your immune system begins reacting strongly enough to cause noticeable symptoms.

That means having a pet for several years without symptoms does not completely rule out a pet allergy.

Sometimes the allergy may also have been mild for a long time and only becomes obvious when something changes.

For example, spending more time indoors, moving to a smaller home or allowing a pet into the bedroom may increase your exposure.

What Does a Pet Allergy Feel Like?

Pet allergy can cause symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Itchy nose or throat
• Red, itchy or watery eyes
• Coughing
• Post-nasal drip

Some people may also develop itchy skin or hives after close contact with an animal.

If you have asthma, pet allergens may trigger coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath.

Why Are My Symptoms Worse at Home?

Pet allergens can spread throughout a house.

Even if your pet spends most of its time in one room, allergens can travel on clothing and through the air.

Soft surfaces can hold onto allergens particularly well. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, blankets and bedding.

The bedroom can be especially important because you spend several hours there every night.

Do Hypoallergenic Dogs or Cats Solve the Problem?

Unfortunately, there is no completely allergy-free dog or cat.

Some breeds may shed less hair, but shedding is not the same thing as producing allergens.

Because the proteins that cause pet allergies come from the animal's skin, saliva and other sources, a low-shedding pet can still cause symptoms.

People can also react differently to individual animals.

Do I Have to Give Up My Pet?

Not necessarily.

If you suspect your pet is causing symptoms, the first step is figuring out whether the pet is actually the trigger.

Dust mites, pollen and mould can cause very similar symptoms.

Pets can even carry pollen indoors on their fur after being outside, which can make the situation more confusing.

An allergy assessment can help determine what you are reacting to before you make major changes at home.

What Can I Do If I Am Allergic to My Pet?

If you have a confirmed pet allergy and your pet remains in the home, reducing exposure may help.

Some practical steps include:

• Keep the pet out of your bedroom
• Avoid allowing the pet on your bed
• Wash bedding regularly
• Vacuum and clean the home regularly
• Wash your hands after prolonged contact with the pet
• Avoid touching your eyes or face after petting the animal
• Consider a HEPA air cleaner in rooms where you spend a lot of time

Your allergist may also recommend medication or other treatment depending on how severe your symptoms are.

For some patients, allergy immunotherapy may be considered.

When Should You Consider Allergy Testing?

Consider speaking with an allergist if:

• Symptoms are happening regularly at home
• You feel worse after close contact with your pet
• Your symptoms improve when you are away from home
• Allergy medication is not controlling your symptoms
• You have asthma that seems worse around animals
• You are considering making a major decision about your pet

Testing can help separate a true pet allergy from other common indoor allergens.

The Bottom Line

You can develop a pet allergy even after living with animals for years.

But sneezing around your dog or cat does not automatically mean your pet is the cause. Dust mites, mould, pollen and other allergens can produce almost identical symptoms.

Before making major changes, it makes sense to find out what you are actually allergic to.

Dandelion Allergy Centre can assess your symptoms, perform allergy testing when appropriate and help you find practical ways to manage your allergies while considering what works for your family.

This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.