Allergy-Friendly Pets
People who are allergic to dogs and cats usually have a hard time finding a suitable pet…
Most people think that it is the hair or fur of a pet that causes their allergies. While their fur/hair does collect dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens it is not a significant cause of your allergy to dogs or cats. These allergies are usually caused by pet dander, which is dead skin flakes. This is why the best pets for people with allergies are those without hair, fur, or dander.
Turtles
Lifespan: 40 – 50 years
Turtles have no fur and produce no dander so they are great pets for people with allergies. However, mold build-up in the tank can create allergies so be sure to keep a clean tank! Turtles also have a long lifespan so you wont have to worry about getting a new pet for a very long time.
Hamsters
Lifespan: 2 – 3 years
While hamsters and other such pets do have fur, they are usually kept in cages. This means that their fur and dander is not spread all throughout the house and contained to one small area. However if you suffer from severe allergies you may not want a pet hamster because cleaning their cage will put you in direct contact with their allergens.
Birds
Lifespan: 3 – 40 years. Depends on type of bird.
Birds make a good pet for people with allergies because they produce minimal dander and they are usually kept in cages. However there are a few types of birds that are worse than others. Cockatoos, Cockatiels, and African Greys produce a lot of “powder down” which is a powdery substance on their skin and can be released into the air of your home. To counteract this, purchase an air purifier and put it in the same room as the cage. To ensure that the air stays clean replace the filter of the purifier regularly.
Fish
Lifespan: dependent on type of fish
A fish tank is the perfect pet to avoid all pet related allergies. Whether you decide to get a beta fish or a salt water tank, fish are colorful and easy pets for all ages. Plus, fish tanks can become a real hobby once you get more experience.