Animal allergy symptoms are much the same as symptoms for other types of allergies. They may occur year-round and are not dependent on the seasons, like some pollen and mold allergies. People may experience one or several allergic symptoms, including:

• Red, watery itchy eyes
• Eczema (flaky, scaly, itchy pink patches on the skin)
• Hives or welts
• Watery nasal discharge
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or tightness

Some people experience allergic reactions to animals within a few minutes of being exposed to them. Others may take from eight to 12 hours before their symptoms become full-blown.

The severity of allergic reactions to animals varies between patients. Rarely, some people with animal allergies experience anaphylaxis. This is a serious and possibly life-threatening allergic reaction that requires emergency medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Shortness of breath
• Tightness in the chest
• Swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue (angioedema)
• Lowered blood pressure