For many of us, animals are part of the family and a loving part of the home. But for those who are prone to eye allergies, pets can affect eye comfort and health, potentially making an otherwise joyful experience with a best friend an uncomfortable one.
Fortunately, allergy sufferers can still enjoy the benefits of pet ownership by taking steps to minimize discomfort.
How Animals Can Affect Eye Health
Many common house pets, such as dogs and cats, naturally produce allergens. Humans react to these allergens differently, and while not all people suffer from animal-related allergies, many do.
Pet-produced dander, saliva, urine proteins, and outdoor allergens (such as pollen) that pets bring in from outside on their fur can all cause issues when in contact with your eyes. These allergens may cause symptoms such as itchy or burning eyes, redness, excessive tears, puffy or swollen eyelids and/or a gritty sensation in the eyes. While symptoms are often temporary, sufferers can experience mild to severe discomfort.
Frequent eye rubbing due to allergies can worsen irritation and even increase the risk of infection, making it important to recognize which pets, breeds, and other triggers affect you most.
Choosing an Allergy-Friendly Pet
If you know that you’re allergy-sensitive, knowing which allergens cause irritation can help you choose a companion animal that’s best suited for you.
While no pet is completely hypoallergenic, some breeds of common domesticated animals shed and produce less dander than others. Consider researching these breeds and talking to your local animal shelter or breeder about allergy-friendly animals.
Additionally, spend time around a specific pet or breed to see how your body reacts before bringing Rover or Fluffy home. As a rule, smaller pets often (but not always) produce fewer overall allergens than bigger ones. For those with severe allergies that still want some company around the house, consider the viability of non-furry animals such as fish, birds, or reptiles.
Tips to Manage Pet-Related Allergies
If you already have a pet, there are many simple steps that you can take to reduce allergens and protect your eyes.
After handling pets, wash your hands and avoid touching your eyes, and keep pets out of bedrooms and off pillows or bedding. Vacuum frequently using a HEPA filter, wash pet bedding regularly, and consider using an air purifier to reduce airborne allergens.
If you’re suffering from pet-related allergies, use preservative-free artificial tears to help flush out your eyes, while avoiding rubbing and potentially aggravating them. For contact wearers, temporarily remove your lenses if symptoms flare and switch to glasses, which can act as a barrier between your eyes and the elements.
Healthy Eyes & Happy Pets
Having friendly company around the house doesn’t have to come at the expense of your eye health.
Though occasional irritation is common, talk to an eye care professional if you suffer from ongoing pet-related eye discomfort, such as persistent redness or swelling, pain or sensitivity to light, changes in vision, and/or symptoms that don’t improve with over-the-counter remedies. A professional can determine whether allergies are the cause and recommend treatments that protect your long-term eye health.
The friendly team at Bauer & Clausen Optometry is available to answer all your eye questions. Schedule your next eye exam with us by calling (406) 656-8886.
