For many people, pets are an important part of their lives. However, for those with asthma, pets can pose a significant challenge. Pet dander, saliva, and urine are all known triggers for asthma attacks. This can make living with pets difficult, but with some precautions and lifestyle changes, it is possible to live happily with your furry friends.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways in your lungs. People with asthma have inflamed and narrowed airways, which can cause difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Asthma attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergens, irritants, and even exercise.
Pets and Asthma
Pet allergens are a common trigger for asthma attacks. When pets shed their fur, dander, and saliva, these particles can become airborne and irritate the airways of people with asthma. Even people who are not allergic to pets can still experience asthma symptoms when exposed to pet allergens.
The most common pets that trigger asthma attacks are cats and dogs. However, any animal with fur, feathers, or scales can be a potential trigger. This includes birds, hamsters, rabbits, and yes even fish.
Living with Pets and Asthma
If you have asthma and want to live with a pet, there are several things you can do to minimize your exposure to pet allergens:
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Choose a low-allergen pet. Some pets are less likely to trigger asthma attacks than others. For example, hypoallergenic dog breeds, such as poodles and bichon frise, are less likely to cause allergic reactions than other breeds. *
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Keep your pet out of your bedroom. Your bedroom should be a pet-free zone. This will reduce your exposure to pet allergens while you sleep.
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Clean your home regularly. Vacuum your floors and furniture, wash your bedding and curtains, and dust your surfaces frequently to remove pet dander and other allergens.
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Use an air purifier. An air purifier can help to remove pet allergens from the air.
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Bathe your pet regularly. Regular baths can help to reduce the amount of pet dander and saliva on your pet's fur.
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Take your asthma medications as prescribed. If you have asthma, it is important to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor. This will help to keep your asthma under control and reduce your risk of asthma attacks.
Conclusion
Living with pets and asthma can be challenging, but it is possible to find a way to live happily with your furry friends. By choosing a low-allergen pet, keeping your home clean, and taking your asthma medications as prescribed, you can minimize your exposure to pet allergens and reduce your risk of asthma attacks. Remember to always consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about living with pets and asthma.
For more information on world asthma day, celebrated annually on 3rd May or for further information head over to Home - Asthma Australia | The nation’s peak consumer body.
* Just a quick note on hypoallergenic dog breeds, it's important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, as all dogs produce some amount of dander, saliva, and urine, which can trigger allergic reactions. However, the following breeds are known to produce fewer allergens than other breeds and may be a better option for people with allergies. Additionally, 'crossing' these breeds is not a guarantee for lower hypoallergenic tendencies. It's always recommended to spend time with the dog before making any commitments to see if you have any allergic reactions, and as always consult with your healthcare provider.
- Poodle
- Bichon Frise
- Maltese
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Portuguese Water Dog
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Schnauzer (Miniature and Giant)
- Chinese Crested