An allergic reaction that attacks the eyes and the airways, such as hay fever, and can result in asthmatic symptoms can be caused by the proteins from the urine, saliva, or hair of household pets. A nettle rash or atopic dermatitis may also be caused by pet allergy.

Allergens that can come from other people’s pets or be transported by people who have been in contact with animals are often difficult to avoid. For example, school classes can be overloaded with pet allergens.

Although hamsters, poultry, rats, cows, pet birds, mice, horses can be the source of this allergy, most often the allergies are to cats and dogs.

Pet Allergy Symptoms:

The following reactions may result when you breathe in per allergens, touch the feathers or fur of pets, or object containing pet allergens.

1. Nettle rash. An itchy reddish rash.
   
2. Asthma. Wheezing and coughing.
3. Hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis. A blocked or running and sneezing nose.
4. Children’s eczema. Itchy skin disease with red patches.
5. Eye symptoms such as watering eyes and itching.
   

Factors that make the symptoms worse:

1. Car fumes, tobacco smoke, polluted air may suddenly cause asthma
2. Any other allergens presented in the environment e.g. pollens may also worsen the allergy symptoms.

Pet Allergy Diagnosis:

Doctors begin pet allergy diagnosis by asking the patient when and where he/she got their symptoms. Blood samples and skin tests can confirm the diagnosis.

Pet Allergy Possible Complications:

They are:

1. Worsening of asthma, and may be even a possible severe asthma attack
2. Ear infections
3. Greater vulnerability to other illnesses of the airways
4. Insomnia and difficulties sleeping