Understanding Pet Allergens: A Guide for Canadian Allergy Sufferers

Šapice Pet Wellness
2026-04-01T14:10:38-04:00

Pet allergies affect millions of Canadians, but you don't have to give up your pet. Learn what causes pet allergens, why Canadian homes are particularly affected, and how to reduce exposure effectively.
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An estimated 20–30% of Canadians experience some form of allergic reaction to pets — yet millions of them live happily with dogs and cats. The key is understanding what actually causes pet allergies, how allergens spread through your home, and what you can do to reduce exposure without giving up your beloved companion.

What Actually Causes Pet Allergies?

Contrary to popular belief, pet allergies are not caused by fur. The primary culprits are proteins found in:

Dander — microscopic flakes of dead skin shed continuously by all cats and dogs

Saliva — deposited on fur during grooming and transferred to surfaces and air when fur is shed

Urine — particularly relevant for cat owners; the protein Fel d 4 in cat urine is a significant allergen

Sebaceous gland secretions — oils produced by the skin that carry allergenic proteins

The most well-known allergens are Fel d 1 (cats) and Can f 1 (dogs). These proteins are extraordinarily lightweight and sticky — they become airborne easily and adhere to surfaces, clothing, and soft furnishings, where they can persist for months even after a pet has left the environment.

Why Canadian Homes Are Particularly Affected

Canada's climate plays a significant role in indoor allergen levels. During the long winter months, homes are sealed tight against the cold — reducing ventilation and allowing allergens to accumulate at higher concentrations. This makes active allergen management especially important for Canadian households.

Reducing Pet Allergens in Your Home

Surface and Air Treatment

Our Loona Allergens Neutralizer chemically neutralizes pet allergen proteins on contact, reducing their ability to trigger allergic responses. Use it on upholstered furniture, carpets, curtains, and pet bedding. For airborne allergens, the Loona Odour-Neutralizer Atomizer provides a convenient spray solution for treating the air and soft surfaces throughout your home.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

For hard surfaces and floors, the Loona XTreme Cleaner and Sanitizer provides deep cleaning that removes allergen-carrying residues effectively and safely. Explore our full Home & Atmosphere collection for a complete allergen management toolkit.

Grooming

Regular grooming significantly reduces the amount of dander and loose fur in your home. Our Grooming Tools & Accessories collection includes tools to make at-home grooming efficient and effective.

Ventilation and Air Filtration

When weather permits, increase ventilation by opening windows. A HEPA air purifier in rooms where your pet spends the most time can dramatically reduce airborne allergen levels — particularly beneficial during Canada's winter months when natural ventilation is limited.

Living Well with Pet Allergies

Many allergy sufferers find that a combination of medical management (antihistamines, immunotherapy) and environmental control allows them to live comfortably with their pets. The environmental component — reducing allergen load in the home — is often the most impactful and immediate intervention available.

You don't have to choose between your health and your pet. With the right products and habits, both can thrive.

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