How to Manage Pet Allergies in the Home

More than 60 percent of households in the U.S. have at least one pet, with the majority owning cats or dogs. Unfortunately, a large percentage of pet owners are actually allergic to their own furry friends! In the quest to cure their allergies, some people will take allergy pills, special medication, or even rehome their pets out of desperation.

However, if you’re struggling with pet allergies, don’t make any rash decisions. We have a few tips so that you can keep your furry friend and avoid allergies at the same time.

What are Pet Allergies?

If you’re allergic to your pet, it’s important to know what causes the allergic reaction. Fur and dander allergies are quite common, but many people are also allergic to allergens in dogs’ saliva and skin glands.

Each person’s reaction to pet allergens can be different, ranging from sniffling and sneezing to deadly asthma. Common allergy symptoms are:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Wheezing and shortness of breath
• Itchy red rash (hives)
• Nausea
• Fatigue

When pet allergens accumulate in the home along with other allergens like dust and pollen, the risk of life-threatening reactions is even higher.

So, if you love your furry friend too much not to cuddle them, we have a few tips that could prevent allergic reactions.

How to Reduce Allergens and Symptoms

Being allergic to your pet can be a constant pain, but you can reduce your symptoms by following the steps below.

Give your pet regular baths

Bathing your dog or cat weekly can greatly reduce the amount of hair and dander they’re spreading all over your home. We know most cats don’t love getting wet, but excess dander can be washed off during a bath to keep your home cleaner and your nose clearer. Make sure to use a shampoo that’s safe and recommended by your vet for the breed. 

Frequently change your air filter

All kinds of allergens float around your home causing respiratory issues and irritation. To lower the number of allergens in your indoor environment, make sure to change your air filter at least once every two months. On top of that, avoid furnishing your home with dust and dander-trapping materials like cotton couches or carpeted floors. The fewer allergens floating around in your home, the fewer allergy symptoms you’ll experience. It’s that simple!

Keep your home clean

This may seem obvious, but a great way to keep pet dander and hair at bay is to keep your house clean! We don’t just mean organized, we mean clean—vacuumed, dusted, and swept. Clean frequently and thoroughly to get rid of dust and dander, washing couch covers, pillows, and other fabric materials. Try to dedicate one day a week to cleaning thoroughly.

Use hypoallergenic bedding

The best way to prevent pet allergens from getting in your bedding is by not allowing pets on the bed. But, let’s be honest, we love them too much to say no. That’s why we recommend bamboo bedding for pet owners because it’s hypoallergenic and allergens don’t get trapped in its fibers. Cosy House Collection’s Luxury Bamboo Sheets are the perfect choice for pet owners because their tightly woven fibers protect you from allergens that float around your room and pet dander and hair can be easily shaken off. They’re also easy to wash and maintain so you can wash them during your weekly cleaning session without worrying about shrinkage or pilling.

We know you can’t live without your furry friends, even if they make you sniffle and sneeze. Keeping your home clean is the secret to enjoying your pet’s company without worrying about allergies. While you get started cleaning your home, make sure to order a set of hypoallergenic Luxury Bamboo Sheets to cuddle up in. Click here to enjoy the benefits of restful sleep!

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