Can You Be Allergic To Dogs But Not Cats?

How much do you know about pet allergy?

Although more and more people discover the benefits of raising a feathered pet, because they bring us joy, however, it is not easy for people to choose their pets when about 15-20% of the population is allergic to pets.

Most people allergic to a furry animal will be allergic to similar species. However, there are some exceptions. That is the reason why in this article, we will explain to you: Can you be allergic to dogs but not cats?

Pet allergy - What is it?

Pet allergies are an allergic reaction to proteins found in the skin cells of animals, saliva or urine.

Often, pet allergies are triggered by contact with dead skin (dandruff) from pets. Any hairy animal can be the source of allergies, but the most common allergy to pets is related to dogs and cats.

What causes pet allergies?

The immune system is responsible for removing and finding external materials such as viruses and bacteria. This reaction usually helps us fight dangerous diseases. People with allergies to pets have a very sensitive immune system.

They may react to harmless proteins found in the urine, drool or scales (dead skin cells) of the animal. These symptoms are called allergies — types of allergenic substances called allergens.

Allergen from pets can accumulate on furniture and other surfaces. These substances are not weak for a long time. Sometimes allergens remain dense for several months and stick to walls, furniture, clothing or other surfaces.

The pet hair is not an allergen. But, it has scales, urine, and saliva. It also contains other allergens such as dirt or pollen.

Cat and dog allergens are everywhere. These substances are even found in homes or places where there are no pets. This is because our clothes can also carry allergens. Besides, these substances can also fly into the air as we stroke or brush pets.

Pet allergens can also be agitated into the air that already contains other allergens. This happens when we sweep the house, vacuum it, or do other chores.

Once flying into the air, these particles can be hung for an extended period.

Check us out for detailed healthy cats guide!

What are symptoms of pet allergies?

Allergens can enter the mucous membranes of the nose and eyes. Reactions include swelling, itching of the mucous membranes, stuffy and redness of the eyes. A scratch or licking of the pet can make the skin red. The itching of the eyes after we stroke your pet and put your hand on the eye is very common.

If the amount of allergens is low or the level of sensitivity is low, a few days after we are close to pets, new symptoms will appear.

There are so many particles that can fly into the lungs. For some people, exposure may cause severe respiratory problems. Susceptible people may start coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing within 15 to 30 minutes after inhaling allergens.

Sometimes these people also have severe rashes on their face, neck and upper chest. Exposure to cats can cause severe asthma attacks for 3 out of 10 people with asthma. Cat allergies can also cause chronic asthma.

Can You Be Allergic to dogs and not cats?

Yes, it is likely to be allergic to dogs and not cats.

Humans are often allergic to proteins released from pets. Also, the proteins of animals are similar. If you are allergic to one furry animal, you are likely allergic to most of the others. People that have an allergy to cats and dogs don’t realize that they are likely allergic to horses, rabbits, goats, and mice as well.

Therefore, people who aren’t often exposed to these animals on a regular basis, their bodies haven’t had a chance to create the antibody.

The reason why you have a terrible allergy to a dog but not another is the different amounts of protein that each animal releases.So, it is understandable that a dog with a massive amount of protein can make you strongly allergic more easily than a cat with a small amount of protein.

Remember, dogs have the protein in their saliva and on their skin. Because dogs usually spend time cleaning and grooming themselves, protein will be spread from their spittle over their bodies as much as possible.

Dog owners like to stroke their pets will easily stick with this protein, that's why people are allergic to some dogs.

How do you still keep your pet in spite of allergy?

Bringing pets out of the home is usually the best treatment. Nevertheless, if you still want to feed them, there are several ways in which you can reduce exposure:

1. Don’t let pets go into the bedroom. One-third to two-thirds of your time is here. Always close and clean the bedroom.
2. Allergen from pets is very difficult to fly. So you should remove the pet's favorite furniture, spread the carpet out, clean the wall and wood furniture. Keep the surfaces clean and tidy. Floors and walls should be blank.
3. If you still need a carpet, buy a thin mat and wash it regularly by steam. Even better, you should use a sofa carpet and clean it with hot water.
4. Weekly bathing for the pet can reduce allergens in the air. But the possibility of minimizing the symptoms of this is still questionable.

5. You should have a non-allergic person brush your pet outside the house and help you to remove the scales and clean the trays and cages.
6. Air conditioners and air heaters can spread allergens throughout the home. Cover the air ducts in the bedroom with a thick cloth filter.

Here are some practical ways to prevent allergic reactions to pets that you can apply.

Pet owners, don’t worry

We think that if you disinfect your home environment every day, allergens cannot harm you. Also, you should limit contact with them and see your doctor each month.

If you are still thinking about the question: Can you be allergic to dogs but not cats?, then we hope you find the answer for yourself.