Ways to deal with allergic reactions to your pets

There is unfortunately no such thing as a hypo-allergenic cat or dog. That’s why doctors say it’s important to watch out for symptoms that could mean you’re allergic to your four-legged friend.

“When people get their pets, right away, they get a lot of those acute symptoms. So they could actually get a lot of, like, itchy eyes and itchy nose and sneezing – and their nose gets really stuffy, and they can feel really miserable,” said Dr. Sandra Hong with Cleveland Clinic.

People with pet allergies wind up symptoms after getting exposed to proteins found in the animal’s fur, skin, urine and saliva.

To reduce the risk, doctors recommend keeping pets out of the bedroom and off furniture – especially upholstery.

It’s also a good idea to put an air filter in rooms where your cat or dog spends the most time.