La verdad sobre las mascotas hipoalergénicas y las alergias
Did you know that 10-20% of people around the globe suffer from pet allergies? 1 If you're one of them, you may be considering hypoallergenic pets as your ticket to enjoy a furry companion without the sneezes and sniffles. In this article, we'll explore the truth behind hypoallergenic pets and offer practical advice for managing pet allergies effectively.
What does hypoallergenic mean?
The term "hypoallergenic" is often used to describe pets that supposedly have a lesser chance of triggering allergies. However, it's important to understand that no pet is completely allergen free. While all animals produce some amount of dander, those labeled as hypoallergenic are thought to be less of a trigger. This could be because they shed less dander, or their dander contains fewer of the allergenic proteins. But remember, even these pets can still cause allergic reactions in certain people.2,3
What is pet dander?
If you suffer from pet allergies, it's because your immune system is reacting to proteins found in your pet’s dander, saliva, and urine.2 What exactly is pet dander? It's the tiny flakes of skin that animals shed, which can contain proteins that set off allergic reactions in some people.
Can you be allergic to a hypoallergenic pet?
Yes, you can be allergic to a hypoallergenic pet, but the chances may be lower. If you're thinking of adopting one, it's a good idea to spend some time with the animal first to see if you have any allergic reactions. This can help you make a more informed decision.
Are hypoallergenic dogs real?
Yes, while there are no dogs that are 100% allergen free, there are dog breeds that may be less allergenic for people with dog allergies. Breeds of dogs that have a non-shedding coat produce less dander, making them a better choice for people with dog allergies.3,6 Hypoallergenic dogs are real, but remember that this means they trigger less allergies, and not that they are allergen free.
Pet dander allergy symptoms
Pet dander comes from skin cells that are shed by animals with fur or feathers. The dander can become airborne and stick to things like furniture, bedding, and fabrics. People can also have different levels of sensitivity to pet allergens. Some might have very minor symptoms, while for others their symptoms are more severe.2
Symptoms of pet dander allergies are similar to hay fever symptoms and include2,4:
Congestión o goteo nasal
Estornudos
Itchy or watery eyes
Best “hypoallergenic” breeds of dogs and cats
While there is no 100% allergen free animal, it is possible to find less-allergenic breeds. When choosing a dog breed, look for a breed with a predictable, non-shedding coat. Purebred dogs are more likely to be predictable since you know exactly what kind of coat the dog will have.3,6
Here are a few allergy-friendly dog breeds to consider3:
Poodle
Bichon Frise
Terriers (Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, Yorkshire terrier, Bedlington Terrier, American Hairless Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier)
Maltese
Shih Tzu
Schnauzer
Portuguese and Spanish Water Dog
These are some of the cat breeds that produce lower levels of the proteins that trigger allergies5:
Siberian
Siamese
Russian blue
Sphinx
Javanese
Oriental shorthair
Devon and Cornish Rex
Burmese
Other allergy friendly pets for those with allergies
Beyond dogs and cats, there are other pets that may be suitable for people with allergies. Pets that don't have fur or feathers can be a good option since they won't carry any dander. These include animals with scales like fish and reptiles (snakes, lizards, turtles).
Managing and treating pet allergy symptoms
If you're dealing with a pet allergy, there are several things you can do to manage and treat your symptoms:
Limit your exposure to the allergen
If you can't bear the thought of staying away from your beloved pet, take steps to try to limit your exposure to their dander. Adopt a rigorous cleaning routine. Regularly launder your bedding, blankets, and any washable rugs. Make vacuuming and dusting a part of your daily chores, and always wash your hands after playing with your pet. Try to keep your furry friend out of your bedroom and off upholstered furniture to further limit dander spread. Additionally, investing in HEPA filters and an air purifier can significantly improve the air quality.2
Medication can provide relief
There are various over-the-counter and prescription medications available to help manage pet allergy symptoms, such as antihistamines and corticosteroids. ZYRTEC-D® is a powerful combo of an antihistamine and a decongestant, working together to tackle symptoms like a stuffy nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.2
Consider allergy shots
These can gradually reduce your sensitivity to pet dander over time.2
Referencias
- Chan SK, Leung DYM. Dog and Cat Allergies: Current State of Diagnostic Approaches and Challenges. Allergy Asthma Immunol Res. 2018 Mar;10(2):97-105. doi: 10.4168/aair.2018.10.2.97. PMID: 29411550; PMCID: PMC5809771.,
- https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pet-dog-cat-allergies/
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/hypoallergenic-dog-breeds/
- https://www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/pet-dander
- https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/hypoallergenic-cat-breeds
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/do-hypoallergenic-dog-exist/
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