#Middlebury #PetDander
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I love my two fluffy cats, Jake and Manny, even though I am allergic to the dander in their fur. Antihistamines help, but not completely. Would an air purifier help keep the air clear? – Jemma G. in Kansas City, Missouri
DEAR JEMMA: An allergy to pet dander can be tough to keep under control – so much so that some pet owners give up their pets. I’m so glad you’ve kept your family together.
Pet dander is generally underneath a dog or cat’s coat, near the skin. They shed fluffy bits of fur almost constantly, and dander is carried off with that fluff. Because dander can be tiny – 75 microns or smaller, which isn’t visible to the naked eye – it’s hard to isolate and get rid of.
An air purifier may help, but only if it’s the right one to trap dander. Get an air purifier with a HEPA filter – one that can be changed easily. HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters trap particles as small as 0.5 microns. Avoid “ionizing” air purifiers as these don’t trap as many dander particles; plus they can be expensive. The size depends on how much of your home you’d like the air purifier to work in; for example, desktop-sized units have a range of less than 200 square feet, which makes them ideal for desks or next to your bed.
No single strategy will reduce dander or other allergens. Tackle the issue from multiple angles. Dusting and vacuuming the house frequently can reduce dander, and brushing your cats’ hair daily will reduce extra shedding. If these activities trigger allergies, consider wearing a filter mask and goggles to hopefully reduce the reaction.
Send your comments, tips or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2021 King Features Synd., Inc.
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