Max, Charlie, Spotty, and Sir Barkalot are just a few names we give our fur babies who we love and adore. But what happens when Miss Fluffy causes eye irritations that make you cry, look puffy under your eyes, and itch like there’s no tomorrow?
Pet allergies are more common than you think.
People who are passionate animal lovers look past these “unpleasantries” because of the unconditional love they get in return. But when your animals cause eye irritations, it’s time to understand the cause so you can treat the symptoms.
Drool is
not cool
There’s something joyous about getting woken up by your slobbering bulldog’s tongue on your face.
But the truth is, saliva is a carrier for proteins and allergens that can irritate your eyes. Saliva on objects in your home are also carriers of these allergens that become airborne, causing allergic reactions.
So, what can you do? Try to create healthy boundaries by not allowing your pets to lick your face and avoid touching objects they may have chewed. Cats spend hours licking themselves and are walking bundles of allergies. So, after petting, employ hand wetting!
Skin flakes
are falling
Pet dander, or otherwise known as dead skin cells, have microscopic dander flakes of proteins and allergens that are potentially harmful to your eyes. These microbes can make you sneeze and puff up under your eyes by simply walking into a room where a dog, cat, or even bird has been. Make sure you always wash your hands after playing with your pets and open windows in your home to allow these airborne irritants to fly away!
Urine the
danger zone
The strong ammonia smell from your pet’s urine can irritate your eyes. Over time, urine on carpets, furniture, or even floorboards can be harmful, especially to your children, as they often play on them. So be hyper-aware and wash and disinfect these objects immediately.
What else
can I do?
At Vision Works, our mission is to help you always maintain excellent eye health! Here are a few tips to follow so that you avoid any problems in the future.
• Ask friends with pets to keep them in a separate room when you visit or stay over.
• Keep pets out of your bedroom if you have allergies.
• Wash your pets often, as mould, dust and pollen get trapped in their fur.
• Try not to touch your eyes after playing with your pets. Always wash your hands!
