Pets and Indoor Air Quality
"A common misconception is that the animal fur itself triggers allergies, so it is often believed that a hairless or shorthaired pet will help avoid reactions.
In actuality, allergic reactions are caused by the Can f I and Can f II proteins (found in dogs), as well as the Fel d I protein (found in cats).
These proteins are present in the dried flakes of skin that form pet dander, the most typical allergen. Proteins are also present in pet saliva, feces and urine. Once the saliva or eliminations dry, they can form flakes that become airborne. These flakes trigger allergic reactions when inhaled, just like dander.
Effects of pet allergens include congestion, wheezing, runny nose, and sneezing. Rashes and itchy, watery eyes are also common allergic reactions. Asthmatic patients report respiratory symptoms as well when exposed to pet allergens. It is difficult to determine a limit threshold for allergens, as concentrations that cause reactions vary from person to person." quote from ESG IAG Commentary about the world of Indoor Air Quality
In actuality, allergic reactions are caused by the Can f I and Can f II proteins (found in dogs), as well as the Fel d I protein (found in cats).
These proteins are present in the dried flakes of skin that form pet dander, the most typical allergen. Proteins are also present in pet saliva, feces and urine. Once the saliva or eliminations dry, they can form flakes that become airborne. These flakes trigger allergic reactions when inhaled, just like dander.
Effects of pet allergens include congestion, wheezing, runny nose, and sneezing. Rashes and itchy, watery eyes are also common allergic reactions. Asthmatic patients report respiratory symptoms as well when exposed to pet allergens. It is difficult to determine a limit threshold for allergens, as concentrations that cause reactions vary from person to person." quote from ESG IAG Commentary about the world of Indoor Air Quality