Allergy & Immunity
Pet Allergy – Allergic Reactions to Dog and Cat Hair
Pet allergies are caused by being exposed to the animal’s hair or fur as well as the saliva and scales of their skin. The animal protein in these allergens trigger the allergic reaction. It may enter through the nasal passages or mouth and may also cause an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with the skin. A pet allergy is more common in a person with an allergic disposition but any person can develop an allergic reaction to pet hair, saliva and dander.
What is an Allergy?
The term allergy refers to a immune mediated hypersensitivity. This simply means that when your body is exposed to certain substances (allergens), the immune system misinterprets this substance as a foreign invader. This causes the immune system to overreact and attack the body’s tissues.