When cuddles become a challenge

What is an animal allergy?

An animal allergy describes an oversensitive reaction of the body to certain animal-derived components. The triggers are not the hairs themselves, but protein-containing substances found in various animal secretions, such as saliva, skin flakes, sweat, sebum or excretions. These proteins can easily attach to fur or feathers and are therefore often mistakenly associated directly with the hairs.

In everyday life, these allergy-triggering particles enter the environment in different ways. They adhere to the fur, can be transferred from there to objects like furniture or textiles and are also spread through the air. As a result, they can be inhaled or come into contact with mucous membranes and skin through direct contact.

Which symptoms can indicate an animal allergy?

Symptoms suggesting an animal allergy often appear relatively soon after contact with the relevant allergenic particles. The reaction often begins shortly after entering a room where these substances are present in the air or on surfaces. Complaints commonly affect the airways, first showing as a runny nose and frequent sneezing.

The eyes are also frequently affected. Irritation may occur, manifested by redness, itching or increased tearing. Depending on the body’s sensitivity, these reactions can vary in intensity and develop quickly.

Furthermore, symptoms can extend to the lower airways. In such cases, irritations are described that may be accompanied by cough or a sensation of breathing difficulty. When more pronounced, this can develop into a condition resembling asthma.

In some cases, there are also skin changes. These include itching, redness or minor skin reactions that can appear after direct contact.

Which animals most commonly cause allergies?

Certain animals can trigger allergic reactions much more often than others. The intensity and frequency of triggers can differ by species. Cats are particularly prominent. In cats a specific protein plays a central role and is present in various body areas such as skin, saliva or tears.

This allergen can bind easily to fur particles, persist in the environment for a long time and spread via air and surfaces. Therefore, it can still be detected long after contact with the animal. Since it occurs in all cat types, sensitive people generally react regardless of breed or coat colour.

Dogs can also cause allergic reactions. A greater variety of allergenic proteins has been described in dogs, mainly in saliva, skin and sebum. As the amount of these substances can vary between animals, some dog breeds may be perceived as more or less allergenic.

Larger animals such as horses can also play a role. Their allergy-causing components are found, among other places, in skin particles and bodily fluids and can spread in the environment or be carried on clothing. Small pets like guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters or mice can also trigger allergies, with urine components playing an important role in particular.

Birds, through feathers and droppings, can also act as allergens. Their particles can spread in the environment and thus promote contact reactions.

How is an animal allergy diagnosed?

Because similar symptoms can have other causes, an animal allergy should generally be medically assessed. The first contact points are usually the family doctor or an allergist. With various tests, these specialists can evaluate the body’s reaction to animal allergens more precisely.

A prick test is often performed. Diluted allergens are applied to the skin and the area is then lightly pricked. If redness or small wheals appear afterwards, this may indicate an allergic reaction. In addition, a blood test can be performed to check for specific antibodies against animal allergens.

In some cases a provocation test is also possible. A small amount of the allergen is applied to the nasal mucosa and it is observed whether typical reactions such as irritation or sneezing occur. These examinations can help to diagnose an animal allergy more precisely.

Is it possible to keep pets despite an animal allergy?

Whether pets can be kept despite an animal allergy depends, among other things, on how strong the reaction to certain animal allergens is. In this context, so‑called “hypoallergenic” dogs or cats are often mentioned. These are usually animals with particular coat characteristics or reduced shedding. However, this does not automatically mean that allergic reactions will not occur.

Animals without fur or with very short hair can also release allergy-causing substances. These are not found exclusively in the coat but also in other body components. According to current knowledge, neither special breeding lines nor particular breeds are completely free of allergens.

Practical advice for everyday life with an animal hair allergy

• Try to reduce contact with the allergenic animal as much as possible. This does not necessarily mean the pet must be rehomed immediately. With consistent household adjustments, cohabitation can sometimes still be possible.
• Keep animals out of the bedroom where possible. Allergens easily settle in bedding, mattresses and textiles, so a pet‑free sleeping area is particularly helpful.
• Avoid taking off clothing that has been in contact with the animal in the bedroom. Allergens can remain on fabrics and disperse unnoticed in the room.
• Change clothing regularly, especially after close contact with the animal. Fresh clothes can help reduce the amount of allergens on the body and in the living environment.
• Wash bedding, blankets, clothing and other textiles as often as possible and preferably at higher temperatures. Fabrics tend to hold allergenic particles for longer periods.
• Reduce typical dust collectors such as carpets, curtains, decorative cushions or heavily upholstered furniture. Smooth, easy‑to‑clean surfaces make cleaning considerably easier.
• Vacuum and mop the home regularly and thoroughly. Damp mopping can be particularly helpful, as allergens settle not only on floors but also on furniture or walls.
• Prefer vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters or wet vacuums where possible. These devices can pick up fine particles better than conventional dry vacuums.
• Ventilate living spaces regularly and thoroughly. This can reduce the concentration of allergens in indoor air.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after direct contact with an animal. It may also be sensible to avoid close contact, such as being licked by animals, where possible.
• Consider indirect contact as well. Allergens can be carried on clothing, bags or other items and cause symptoms even in places where no animals are present.
• For dogs, regular grooming outside the living area can be useful. It is sometimes recommended to wash the coat regularly or wipe it with a damp cloth.
• Store worn clothing separately where possible and remove animal hairs from garments with a lint roller if needed. This reduces the transfer of allergens to other rooms.
• If symptoms occur, doctor‑recommended medications can help. Depending on the situation, nasal sprays, eye drops or allergy tablets tailored to the individual may be appropriate.
• If contacts with animals cannot be avoided in the long term, immunotherapy may be considered in certain cases. This is carried out over several years under medical supervision and is mainly used when there is a significant impact on daily life or when contact with the animal cannot realistically be reduced for professional or personal reasons.

An animal allergy shows how sensitively the immune system can react to certain animal proteins and how easily these can enter everyday life without being noticed. Better understanding the triggers helps to interpret physical reactions more consciously and to recognise their underlying causes more clearly.