Pet allergies are triggered by proteins in dander, saliva, and urine. Confirm diagnosis with an allergist, then combine avoidance measures (pet-free bedrooms, HEPA filters, smooth surfaces, regular laundering), grooming, and medical therapies such as antihistamines or immunotherapy when indicated. Severe or treatment-resistant cases may require rehoming.
What causes pet allergies?
Most pet allergies come from proteins in dander (tiny skin flakes), saliva, and urine. Cat Fel d 1 and dog Can f 1 are two common allergenic proteins that trigger itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, asthma, or skin hives in sensitive people.
How to know if a pet is the problem
Symptoms that start or worsen around animals suggest pet allergy, but other triggers are possible. An allergist can confirm the cause with a medical history plus skin-prick testing or specific IgE blood tests. Diagnosis matters: different allergens (dander versus saliva) suggest different avoidance steps.
Practical steps you can take at home
- Create pet-free bedrooms. Keeping sleeping areas off-limits to pets reduces nightly exposure and often improves symptoms.
- Use HEPA air cleaners and vacuum with a HEPA-filter machine to reduce airborne dander.
- Prefer smooth surfaces (hardwood, tile, leather) where practical; they trap fewer allergens than soft fabrics and are easier to clean.
- Wash pet bedding and your own bedding regularly. Laundering removes accumulated dander and saliva.
- Wash hands after handling pets and avoid letting pets lick your face.
Grooming and cleaning the pet
Regular grooming reduces the amount of loose dander. Bathing most dogs and some cats can lower allergen levels in the short term; discuss frequency with your veterinarian and allergist.
Brushing and using a damp cloth on fur, and keeping outdoor time for dirty coats, also helps. Do not rely on "hypoallergenic" breeds - no breed is guaranteed non-allergenic because individuals react to specific proteins, not coat type.
Medical options
Over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroid sprays, and inhalers for asthma control reduce symptoms. For people who remain symptomatic despite avoidance and medicines, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots, and in some situations sublingual therapy) can reduce sensitivity over time - ask an allergist whether you are a candidate.
When keeping a pet isn't safe
If symptoms are severe (frequent asthma attacks, persistent daily symptoms despite treatment), the safest choice may be rehoming the animal. Talk with clinicians and consider trial strategies (pet-out-of-bedroom, HEPA filters, daily meds) before making a final decision.
Bottom line
Pet allergies are common but manageable. Confirm the cause with an allergist, combine targeted avoidance with cleaning and medical treatment, and weigh immunotherapy or rehoming only after medical advice.
- Confirm current evidence on how frequently bathing/grooming reduces pet allergen levels and recommended bathing intervals for dogs and cats.
- Verify the most up-to-date guidance on availability and FDA status of sublingual immunotherapy for pet allergens (cats and dogs) as of 2025.
- Check specific laundering temperature recommendations for effectively removing pet allergens from bedding.