Allergies come in many forms and from various causes. At its core, an allergy is an exaggerated immune response to an external irritant. According to some studies, up to 30% of the global population suffers from allergies, and this number is steadily increasing. While there are tests to identify allergens, predicting when and how someone will react to a specific trigger is highly unpredictable. Even when a pet is labeled as “hypoallergenic,” it’s important to remember that no animal can be guaranteed not to cause an allergic reaction.
Are Hypoallergenic Pets a Myth?
According to the Norwegian Asthma and Allergy Association, the only pets that are truly non-allergenic are aquarium fish and reptiles, such as turtles. However, even these options can pose risks, as some people are allergic to fish food or reptile bedding materials.
Any furry animal has the potential to trigger allergies, with cats and dogs being the most common culprits. Cat allergens, in particular, are known to carry a high risk of severe asthma attacks.
What Causes Pet Allergies?
Pet allergies are caused by proteins in the pet’s skin, saliva, urine or gland secretions. Though pet fur is most often pointed at as the source of allergies, it is not always the cause of the problem. Fur acts as a medium of carrying allergens to different parts of your house. Small skin flakes can float in the air and stick to the clothes, beddings, and other objects. Saliva, especially when spread through barking, can be deposited on walls and other objects, dry and become floating allergens.
Hypoallergenic Cats and Dogs
All cats and dogs produce allergens, but some breeds may produce fewer. Key factors that determine the level of allergens include:
- Gender: Male cats are more allergenic than females.
- Size: Smaller pets emit fewer allergens due to their size.
- Coat Type: The pets that do not lose their fur will have less of the allergens.
- Saliva Production: Those dogs that drool less will spread less allergens.
Cats: Sphynx and other hairless breeds are often considered hypoallergenic due to their lack of fur. Siberian cats are also noted for producing lower levels of allergenic proteins in their saliva.
Dogs: Hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested, Mexican Hairless, and Peruvian Inca Orchid are good options for allergy sufferers. Small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Fox Terriers, and Miniature Schnauzers are less likely to shed but require regular grooming. Breeds such as Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Bichon Frises shed minimally but need frequent brushing and maintenance to prevent allergens from accumulating.
Are Rodents an Option?
Rodents like rabbits, hamsters, rats, and guinea pigs can also trigger allergies, mainly due to proteins in their urine. These allergens can also be present in their fur, dander, and saliva. Hairless guinea pigs, for example, still produce allergens through skin cells. However, because rodents are small and typically confined to cages, they may release fewer allergens into the environment. Proper cage hygiene is essential to minimize allergen spread.
Chinchillas are sometimes recommended for allergy sufferers because they don’t shed or emit strong odors. However, they still produce proteins that can trigger allergies, and their care requires hay, a common allergen.
Amphibians and Reptiles: A Safe Bet?
Some examples of cold-blooded animals include lizards, turtles and snails such as the Giant African Snail and they are not allergenic. But they may need bedding or food that could cause allergy. Reptiles and amphibians are usually a good choice for those with asthma or other allergies; however, they are not as low maintenance as other pets.
Fish are also another good hypoallergenic choice. Just be sure that the fish food does not cause any allergic reactions.
Tips to Reduce Allergy Risks
If you have a pet and you are allergic to pets then there are certain measures that you can take to reduce the amount of allergens in the air:
- Have another family member to do the pet grooming and changing of the litter box.
- Keep pets out of bedrooms and off beds.
- Air purifiers combined with regular home cleaning especially of carpets and curtains which collect dust and fur will help you reduce allergen levels.
- After pet contact wash your hands immediately while preventing face contact until then.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to get a pet remains a decision that belongs to each individual. The knowledge of allergy-producing factors enables people to select pets who will generate fewer allergens. The right pet care along with proper precautions enables people to have pets while maintaining their health.