Living with asthma can make sharing your home with furry friends very difficult. However, we know that giving up your pet is not an option. The news that your pet is triggering your asthma attacks can be devastating, but there are many ways to live with pets and prevent asthma attacks. Making simple adjustments can create a more peaceful environment for you and your furry friend.
Here’s how to live with pets if you have asthma:
Dander
Many people believe that it’s the hair or fur of pets that are causing their allergic reaction, but it’s actually pet dander. Dander is tiny pieces of skin that are shed by cats, dogs, rodents, and other animals. These small particles trigger a reaction in people who are allergic.
All animals produce dander, however, animals with longer hair are likely to produce more dander than others. If you have asthma, it’s best to adopt a pet with short hair or research pets that are hypoallergenic.
How to live with pet allergens in the home
Here are some tips to minimize the pet allergens around your home:
- Keep your pet out of your bedroom
- Vacuum regularly and change the vacuum bag often
- Don’t let dust build up in your home
- Use air purifiers to remove pet allergens in the air
- Wash your pet at least once a week
- Brush your pet outside
- Keep pets off carpet area
- Keep pets off furniture
- Use allergy friendly home products
If you have asthma, it’s going to take a little extra work to ensure that your living space is clean and comfortable for living. Although it may involve added effort, living with a pet has a multitude of health benefits.
