How to Reduce Dander

Owning a dog or cat should be a rewarding exchange of love and affection. But having allergies to your furry friend can make life less than completely enjoyable. Pet-related allergies typically result from animal dander, a protein found on the surface your pet's skin. Shedding hair follicles contain traces of dander, which is why animals that shed more are associated with severe allergies. Dander is sticky and easily attracts other allergens such as mold, dust and pollen, exacerbating the suffering of many allergic people. There are a variety of inexpensive and practical ways to reduce animal dander in your home and still enjoy the companionship of your family pet.

Things You'll Need

• Antidander shampoo
• Rubber gloves
• Mask
• Air filters
• Allergen-resistant bedding

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Bath your pet regularly with an antidander shampoo. Bathing removes dirt and excess dander from your pet's skin. Take your pet outside or go into a bathroom and close the door. Wear rubber gloves and mask to protect yourself. Wet your pet's fur and rub a small amount of shampoo into the fur. Rinse with water. Finish the bathing process with a thorough brushing, removing any loose hairs. Never use human shampoo on animals; the pH balance is significantly different from dog or cat shampoo and can cause severe skin irritation for your pet. Ask you veterinarian for recommendations for an effective antidander shampoo.

• 2

  Use air filters. Place the filters in your home's air vents by opening the tabs on the vent doors with either your fingers or a screwdriver and place the filters in the vents. Close the vent doors and resecure the tabs. A HEPA filter effectively eliminates most animal dander and other allergens from your bedroom and home.

• 3

  Take your pet to the vet. Animals suffer from allergies just as humans do, which can cause scratching. As your pet scratches, flakes of dander fly into the air along with loose hairs. Pets can be allergic to foods and even certain chemicals in cleaning products. Talk to your vet about possible hypoallergenic foods and shampoos for your pet.

• 4

  Use allergen-resistant bedding and slip covers. Certain materials hold animal dander and additional allergens more easily than others. Many online companies such as National Allergy offer allergen-resistant bedding, sheets and pillows to further reduce animal dander in your home. (See Resources)