Dander is the primary cause of animal allergies. Dogs and cats are the primary sources of animal allergies because they are the animals most commonly kept inside the home. However, other furred or feathered animals (e.g., ferrets, hamsters, guinea pigs, monkeys, horses, rabbits and birds) also cause dander allergies.

Dander allergies are related to a number of other conditions. People with pollen or dust mite allergies may be more likely to also have dander allergies. Animal dander breaks into tiny particles that frequently become a component of household dust. Also, people with outdoor allergies might experience reactions after contact with an animal, even if they do not have an allergy to the animal. This is because outdoor allergens such as pollen can get caught in the animal’s fur or feathers. 

Allergies to dander may take many forms, including:

• Allergic rhinitis.  An inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the nose, causing nasal congestion, sniffling and sneezing. Dander that is inhaled into the nasal passage can trigger this condition.

  

• Allergic conjunctivitis. An inflammation of the tissue lining the inside of the eyelid that produces irritation and tearing of the eyes. Animal dander that comes into contact with the eyelid can trigger this response.
  

  

• Contact dermatitis. An inflammation of the skin that is caused by direct contact with an allergen. It usually appears as a red, bumpy skin rash. Animal dander coming into contact with the skin can trigger this type of reaction.
  

  

• Asthma. A condition in which the airways become blocked or narrowed causing coughing, shortness of breath and breathing difficulty. Asthma can be allergic and non–allergic in origin. Dander allergens can cause both acute and chronic asthma symptoms. The incidence of asthma–like symptoms in owners of furred and feathered animals is significantly higher than those who are exposed to other animals. There is also evidence to suggest that people with dander allergies are at increased risk of developing chronic asthma.