The allergen in cats and dogs is a protein that is present in their saliva and skin. Thus, it is not the fur that people are allergic to. It is the protein on the dander on the fur that causes the allergy. Contrary to popular belief, the length of fur and the amount of shedding does not necessarily make a big difference. Even if you had a bald cat or dog, you are still exposed to large amounts of allergen because all cats and dogs have skin. And the dander sloughs off and accumulates. It accumulates all over the home: in the carpeting, furniture, curtains, clothing, beds, pillows, and ventilation systems. Thus, over time it does not matter what room the pet happens to be in because the allergen builds up everywhere. If you are allergic to your cat or dog, you are essentially allergic to your house!
The following tips can help reduce your exposure to pet allergen:
Get a new pillow at least once a year.
Encase your pillow and mattress with a 100% cotton allergy encasement.
Never allow your pets into your bedroom.
Do and fold your laundry in a room where the pets are never allowed.
Change the filter on your furnace once a month.
Remove as much carpeting as you can and replace with hard surfaces such as wood or tile.