Allergy In Kids: Ways To Keep Kids Safe From Pet Allergies

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You may find it very upsetting to learn that your child is allergic to your family pet, but it is not an uncommon occurrence. Approximately 30 percent of people with allergies have allergic reactions to cats and dogs.

As opposed to popular belief, it is not the pets' hair that causes a child to sneeze and wheeze, but rather the proteins found in their urine, saliva, or pet dander.

It is possible for these proteins to adhere to the surfaces of walls, furniture, and clothing and remain there, at full strength, for a long time. Pets may also bring in additional allergens, such as pollen, to the home [1][2].

Symptoms of pet allergy in kids can cause stuffy noses, itchy eyes, wheezing, and even asthma attacks. If your child experiences these symptoms after coming into contact with your dog or cat, you should have your child tested.

Ways To Prevent Pet Allergies At Home

If you know the ways to protect kids from allergies, you will never have to forsake your pets. Unfortunately, many people make the extreme decision to abandon their pets after finding that their child is allergic to them.

If you intend to have a pet, it is essential that you are aware of how to protect children from allergies. You cannot abandon a family member simply because you do not believe they can live with you.

It does not make sense to abandon or rehome your pet for simple allergies unless your child suffers from asthma or severe respiratory problems. However, there are several effective methods and solutions to protect kids from allergies.

One important point to be noted is that pet allergies are not caused due to the shedding of their hair, whereas, it is the dander or the dead cells that are shed from the pet's body.

Keeping an eye on this and following the tips below on how to protect kids from allergies will definitely help keep your family and your pet healthy and happy.

Here are some tips on how you can manage pet allergies in kids:

1. Air purifiers

The use of air purifiers is one of the most effective ways to protect your children from allergies. You should choose an air purifier that is capable of removing airborne pet dander. This will keep your children free of allergens. You might require an additional air purifier depending on the size of your home [3].

2. Regular brushing

Maintain a healthy environment for your pet by bathing and brushing them as often as possible. Bathing your pet at least once a week is necessary. Regular grooming will help to minimize or even diminish the amount of dander your pet carries and will keep your children safe from pet allergies.

3. Keep pets out of the bedroom

You should keep your child's room clean, pet-free, and free of pet dander and pollen. In order to keep the room clean, you should install an air purifier and high-efficiency air filter. Make sure to change the filters on a regular basis.

4. Daily damp dusting and vacuuming

You can also prevent pet allergies by vacuum cleaning and damp dusting your home every day. Pets tend to shed dander on carpets, furniture, and wherever they wander, so it is important to vacuum clean and damp dust your home every day. If this continues to accumulate, your child may have a reaction to it.

Vacuuming and damp dusting on a daily basis will help to remove loose dander and prevent it from accumulating.

5. Regular hand washing

The best way to prevent allergies in kids is to regularly wash their hands. Every time you interact with your pet, wash your hands immediately afterward, as this will help you avoid pet allergies. In addition to these tips, make sure you have a proper ventilation system in your home [4][5].

On A Final Note...

Families must decide for themselves whether they can manage their children's allergies with a cat or dog. It is important to keep in mind that adopting a pet is a lifelong commitment.