No, rabbits are not hypoallergenic. Keep in mind that rabbits do shed, which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Rabbit allergies are becoming more and more common, but there are ways to mitigate the symptoms.
Rabbit Allergies
Rabbits are one of the most popular pet choices for many people. However, if you’re allergic to them, it’s essential to keep that in mind. Not only is owning a rabbit not always a good idea, but it also needs to be clarified why some people are allergic to them. Talk to your doctor about whether or not owning a rabbit is right for you.
There are ways to reduce exposure risk if you have an allergy to rabbits, such as using a dust mite dander cover or hypoallergenic bedding. So, whether you’re considering a rabbit as a pet or not, it’s essential to know all the facts about rabbit allergies.
Causes of Rabbit Allergies
Rabbits shed – a lot. They can leave behind up to six pounds of hair each year. If this concerns you, don’t worry – the hair left on the floor is relatively small and easy to vacuum.
Some tips for avoiding rabbit allergies include washing your hands regularly, vacuuming frequently, and keeping your home clean and free of allergens.
Symptoms of Rabbit Allergies
Keeping rabbits in your home when allergic to them can be incredibly dangerous as they may create problems such as difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face and lips.
If this is the case for you, getting rid of them from your home will help reduce your risk of further exposure. Always consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle – their advice could save your life!
While preventing allergies is not always possible, taking steps to lessen their chances is always recommended. For example, there are many rabbits, so some may be less likely to cause an allergy than others. If you’re concerned about your allergy potential, it’s a good idea to get an allergy test done.
How Seasons Can Affect Rabbit Allergies
Allergy season can be unpredictable, and some rabbits might still cause an allergic reaction despite previously not being irritated by rabbits. If this happens, it’s best to stay away from all rabbits for six months so your body has time to adjust.
What You Should Do if You Are Allergic to Your Rabbit
If you’re allergic to rabbits or hay, keeping one as a pet is probably not the best idea. However, there are other options available to you. To make an informed decision, remember to know if you’re allergic to rabbits or hay before purchasing.
However, if you already have rabbits and are allergic to them, it is essential to know what to do to minimize the reaction. Make sure you have an emergency kit that includes antihistamines, pulse oximeters, and adrenal support supplements like cortisol or cortisone. If all else fails, epinephrine injections may be necessary.
Most of the time, the best thing to do is keep your furry friend away from you. In the meantime, monitor your symptoms and take medication as needed if you experience anaphylaxis (severe allergy).
To try and keep your rabbit as hypoallergenic as possible, ensure they are spayed/neutered (if they’re male) or altered (if they’re female), and keep an eye on the allergen levels in the house. If these measures fail and you are still allergic, consider re-homing your rabbit or getting a different pet altogether.
Clean Frequently
By routinely cleaning all of the surface areas where your bunny spends time, you’ll help to remove all the allergens from their surroundings and prevent any allergic reactions.
Avoid Handling Your Rabbit
Rabbits are amazing creatures, but it’s best not to handle them if you’re allergic to them. Make sure that the room where your rabbit is kept is free of other animals and furniture – this will help keep their fur safe.
Wash Your Hands Often
The best way to avoid an allergic reaction is by washing your hands often. Dust mites are tiny creatures that can easily trigger allergies in people, rabbits included. Make sure that your place is clean and free of all dust mites.
Keep Some Areas of the House Rabbit-Free
It is essential to keep some areas of the house rabbit-free if you are allergic to rabbits. This way, you can avoid contacting your rabbit and prevent allergic reactions.
Keep the distance between you and your rabbit as much as possible by limiting their access to certain rooms in the house, such as the bedroom, living room, and any other places where you spend a lot of time.
Brush Your Rabbit During the Shedding Seasons
When your rabbit sheds its fur, it can release dander and other allergen particles that may cause allergic reactions. To reduce the risk of exposing yourself or your rabbit to allergens, clean the room where they reside and brush them regularly during shedding seasons.
Use an Air Purifier
The most effective way of dealing with allergies is by using an air purifier; however, this might only be practical for some. If that’s not possible, another option would be changing its bedding or dosing yourself with antihistamines. If you are allergic to your rabbit, the best thing to do is remove it from the house and keep it in a separate room.
See Your Doctor About Allergy Medication
If you are allergic to your rabbit, it is essential to take all necessary precautions. Different medications can help with allergy symptoms; consult your doctor about the best one for your situation. If allergies persist despite taking allopathic measures, then seeing a specialist may be a good idea.
