Re: Rodent breeding and allergies?
I have a bad reaction to the rats as well. Cage cleaning can sometimes just make me sneeze all the way up to having an asthma attack. I've found the using a mask eliminates the need to use any kind of meds, but just a simple over the counter allergy med works too.
I welt up from their nails as well... hydrocortisone cream works wonders for that.
There's no sense in suffering everytime you have to clean. I keep them because my daughter absolutely love, love, LOVES them, and I really enjoy them as well.
Re: Rodent breeding and allergies?
The smell and my allergies to rats were the deciding factor for me to switch over to F/T. I'm not sure if it was the ammonia they produce or the dander...but it would kick my athsma into overdrive. I wear latex gloves and use hemostats when I handle any F/T rats... just in case.
Re: Rodent breeding and allergies?
wow... our rats are right in the bed room with us. I couldnt imagine being allergic to the little buggers.
Re: Rodent breeding and allergies?
Quote:
Originally Posted by littleindiangirl
wow... our rats are right in the bed room with us. I couldnt imagine being allergic to the little buggers.
I only have allergic reactions when handling them, not from being in the same room with them. But I know I couldn't sleep with them in my room - between Wisdom jumping like on a pogo stick over and over and over again, to Scarlett pulling her water bottle away from the glass then letting go, over and over and over again! Too much racket! LOL
Re: Rodent breeding and allergies?
Quote:
Originally Posted by frankykeno
Jake, seriously, if you react that strongly...to the point your breathing is compromised and your throat is swelling...you aren't "toughing it out"...you're risking a reaction that could kill you. Some people's bodies learn to tolerate the things they are allergic to as is the case with Adam, but for some people repeated exposure to allergens causes an even worse and more deadly reaction. You need to seriously decide what your risks factors are here. At least consider a preventative medication before your clean the rats. A minor reaction like itcy eyes or slight hives is one thing, when your throat starts to close and you wheeze...that's nothing to play around with.
If I'm lucky it'll close my throat all the way:D
Just kidding of course. A wet bandanna seems to work pretty well for my breathing
Re: Rodent breeding and allergies?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Pork Chops N' Corn Bread
If I'm lucky it'll close my throat all the way:D
Just kidding of course. A wet bandanna seems to work pretty well for my breathing
Good luck with that.
