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Pet Dander and Odors
Did You Know?
It is estimated that 10% of the
population is allergic to animals - and 10% of all American
households have either a dog or cat.
See Air Purifiers for
Pet Dander and Odors
Although a significant percentage of the American
population own pets, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation
of America, 15 to 30 percent of people with allergies also have
allergic reactions to dogs and cats, with cat allergies being twice
as common as dog allergies.
Contrary to
popular belief, pet hair does not cause allergies. Rather, the
constant shedding of fluids and dander from old skin cells triggers
symptoms and allergic reactions.
This dander, as well as pet feces, urine, and
saliva, can also act as allergens, causes runny noses and eyes,
sneezing, rashes, and other undesirable side effects. Pet dander is
also capable of collecting and harboring other allergens such as
dust and pollen. In addition to pet hair, bird feathers and hair
from small animals such as hamsters, gerbils, and rabbits, as well
as their droppings, are a breeding ground for mold, fungi, and
bacteria.
Specifically, cat hair is one of the most common pet
allergies. This is caused by an allergic reaction to cat
glycoprotein Fel d 1, which is secreted by a cat's sebaceous
glands and most commonly found in a cat's saliva and skin. Cats are
known to be extremely hygienic, as they often lick their fur in
order to clean themselves. However, this leads to the saliva being
deposited onto the fur, which, in turn, dries into dander and
released when a cat moves, or when it is brushed or stroked by a
human.
In addition to the problem of dander, pets can
sometimes leave unpleasant odors in one's home.
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Kennels, litter boxes, pet beds and
blankets, cages, and other high-traffic pet areas, as well as
secretions such as feces and urine, can lead to unsightly odors.
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However, even though pet allergies and odors are so
prevalent, for pet owners, giving up their best friend is not an
option. Luckily, pet air purifiers are extremely successful at removing
pet dander and odors, allowing one to breathe clear and have an
odor-free free home.
Air purifiers for pets using technologies such as
activated carbon,
HEPA,
ionization, and
UV light are ideal to remove pet allergens and odors. In fact,
many purifiers utilize either many or even all of these purification
methods to target pet problems. Air purifiers with activated carbon
contain oxygen-infused charcoal which eliminates odors, and HEPA
filters, which are able to capture particles 0.3 microns are larger,
trap pet hair and dander in the purifier's filter media.
On the other hand, air purifiers with negative ion
technology utilize negative ion generators. These purifiers emit a
stream of ions which cling to particulates, forming clusters. These
clusters then become heavy enough to either fall to the floor or
onto electrostatic precipitators to trap particles onto oppositely
charged metal places. Air purifiers with UV lamps provide an even
further step, as they destroy any residual mold, bacteria, or
microorganisms left in the air.
See
Pet Air Purifiers
Return to the
Air Purifier Guide
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