What should you know about pet skin allergies?

The trigger is commonly found in dander, saliva or urine, not only in fur. Contact can cause a local itchy rash or raised welts, while airborne particles may cause sneezing, a runny nose or itchy eyes. Symptoms may start during contact or after an exposed surface is touched.

A rash can have many causes, including eczema, irritant contact dermatitis or infection. A clinician considers its appearance, location, timing and other symptoms before deciding whether pet allergy is likely.

Wash hands after touching an animal and avoid rubbing your face. Keep pets out of sleeping areas, clean soft furnishings regularly and change clothes after prolonged contact if this reduces your symptoms. Do not apply a new cream to broken skin without checking its suitability.

Allergy testing may help identify sensitisation when the history is unclear. A clinician can discuss allergy medication for itching or nose and eye symptoms, while checking that treatment suits your age, pregnancy status and other medicines.

Get emergency help for swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, breathing difficulty, faintness or rapidly spreading hives. Arrange a medical review for a persistent rash, infected-looking skin, facial swelling, or symptoms that keep returning despite avoiding the suspected pet.

Ask whether the rash fits pet allergy, whether testing is useful, which allergens should be checked, how to protect your skin, and which medicine is safe with your other treatments.