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We love our pets. Thus, many of us enjoy having them close beside us inside our homes, where we can interact with them and we can ensure they're well cared for. Most of us make some significant adaptations to living with pets indoors, although there can be some kerfuffles along the way.
One of the biggest drawbacks of sharing space with cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, or even gerbils is that they shed. It's not just feathers and hair — although that can impact your indoor air quality — but also a minute substance that might best be described as pet dandruff or pet dander. Let's take a closer look at dealing with pets and air quality.
Pet Dander and Allergies
Many people, despite their love for their pets, are allergic to pet dander. It can cause extreme reactions from sniffles, watery eyes, shortness of breath, and contact dermatitis. Often, pet owners are forced to take antihistamines in order to coexist with their pets.
Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to improve the relationship between pets and air quality in your home.
Use a quality air filter. A dense, pleated air filter will catch fine particles in the return air before it's recirculated as conditioned air. Use a better-quality filter rated 8 to 12 on the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) scale. Cheap air filters do nothing for your indoor air quality, although they will catch larger dirt particles and keep them out of your equipment.
Bathe cats and dogs often. Brush pets thoroughly outdoors to get rid of shedding hair and dander to improve the relationship between pets and air quality. Wash pets at least once a week, making sure you thoroughly rinse out shampoo. Use a pH-balanced shampoo that will help prevent dry skin or the allergic reaction that can cause dander. For birds, keep cages clean.
Try an air purifier. Talk to your HVAC consultant about the best air purifier for your home, as there are many types.
For more on pets and air quality, contact Air Assurance of Broken Arrow.