Animal allergy

Animal allergy

Allergy to animals occurs in approximately 10% of the population. Most animals can cause allergies. To develop an allergy to animals, one must first have been in contact with the animal. The best treatment for animal allergies is to remove the animal causing the allergy from the environment.

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What is an animal allergy?

Allergy to animals is caused by the body's immune system overreacting to allergens from animals. Most fur animals can trigger allergic reactions. Animal allergens, on the other hand, are not only found in the fur, but also in the skin, urine and saliva of animals.

The risk of developing an animal allergy increases if there is an allergy in the close family. Allergies usually develop in childhood, but adults can also get animal allergies. Animal allergies are common in people with asthma.

Which animals can cause allergies?

Most animals can cause allergies in predisposed people. Cats, horses and dogs cause the most allergy symptoms. The only animals that do not cause allergies are turtles and aquarium fish.

Symptoms of animal allergy

Animal allergies cause symptoms such as itchy and runny eyes and nose, sneezing, stuffy nose and asthma. In addition, skin reactions in the form of eczema and hives can occur upon direct contact with the animal.

Good advice for preventing animal allergies

• Avoid acquiring animals if there are many allergies in the family. There is a high risk that people with, for example, a pollen allergy will develop a cross-allergy to animals, if they are exposed to animals over time

• If you still choose to have animals, be careful about cleanliness and avoid carpets in the house

• Turtles and aquarium fish are considered allergy-free.  Please note that fish feed can be allergenic. In addition, the aquarium increases the humidity, which can increase the risk of mite allergies

Treatment of animal allergy

The most important and effective treatment for animal allergies is to remove the animal from your surroundings. Medicines are not a good solution, but may be necessary if it is not possible to avoid exposure to the animal.

When should you contact a doctor for animal allergies?In the event of symptoms of an allergy, you should contact a doctor so that a correct diagnosis can be made and the doctor can assess whether you need preventive treatment

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Sources: Own information material, Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association.