About 60% of American households have pets. These loveable companions can be the source of allergic symptoms for at least 10% of the population, with a much higher percentage of pet allergies among asthma patients. Getting tested for a possible cat or dog allergy before acquiring a pet is often worthwhile. Itchy eyes, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, eczema, wheezing and cough can be triggered by allergy to pets. An allergy evaluation can pinpoint the type and severity of pet allergy. Avoidance measures to reduce exposure can be quite helpful. Medications can also be prescribed to reduce symptoms before or after contact with pets. In addition, allergy injections have been highly effective for reducing allergic symptoms and asthma due to dog and cat allergy.
