Signs and symptoms

When you have a pet allergy, you may exhibit the signs and symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Signs and symptoms may include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy nose, roof or mouth or throat
• Postnasal drip

If you have direct contact with the cause of the allergy (allergen), you may experience a rash and itching.

If you have asthma, you may also experience increased signs and symptoms of asthma, such as:

• Lung congestion
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Cough

Signs and symptoms usually occur within minutes of exposure to pet dander or saliva. If your sensitivity to the allergen is low, however, signs and symptoms may not appear until hours after contact.