Asthma and Pets


		treatments

		my asthma
		my medications
		my lifestyle

			exercising with asthma
			eating right
			asthma & nighttime
			day by day
			pets
			don't smoke

		my child's asthma
		my allergies
		my recent attack

pets: can't live without them?
how to live with them

If allergies to a beloved pet make you sneeze and wheeze, read on. Your pet allergies are caused by tiny particles in your pet's dander (flakes of skin), saliva, and urine. Because these particles are small, they're easily airborne. When you breathe them in, your asthma symptoms can flare up. Even so, giving up your pet may be an option you hope to avoid. These tips may be helpful.

fur and feathers get your dander up?
People are more likely to be allergic to cats than dogs. The small size of cat dander allows it to stay in the air longer than dog dander, so you're more likely to breathe it in. Even kitty's grooming habits make matters worse by exposing you to saliva on its fur.

While no dog is hypoallergenic, some are bigger problems than others—especially if you're allergic to pollen since your dog can bring it inside on its coat. Don't think you’re out of the woods if your pet is a bird instead of a cat or a dog. Feathers, even in a pillow, can cause allergic reactions or asthma symptoms.

pet-proofing tips

When your pet comes in from outdoors, wipe him or her with a damp cloth.
Bathing your dog or cat weekly may cut down on their dander. (Your cat may prefer a damp-cloth rubdown.)
Grooming should be done outdoors. Ask a non-asthma sufferer to do the grooming. Also, ask a non-asthma sufferer to change the litter or bathe your pets.
Never allow a pet in your bedroom.
Make a comfortable home for your pet outdoors, if possible.

reduce pet dander in your home

Consider replacing carpets and upholstered furniture with washable rugs and slipcovers.
Vacuum weekly using a cleaner with an HEPA (high-efficiency particle arresting) filter.
Put an HEPA air filter in the rooms where your pet spends the most time. (It may help to remove dander, pollen, and dust particles from the air. But it must be cleaned frequently.)
Clean your home's heating and air-conditioning ducts every 6 to 12 months.

Remember, discuss any changes in your asthma symptoms with your healthcare professional. If your asthma symptoms are getting worse, finding your pet a new home may make both of you happier in the long run.

Pets are wonderful, loyal friends, but you owe them love and care in return. So be sure you can give it, if you're to enjoy your friend for life.