Animal dander

Animal dander

Animal dander is loose skin cells (like dandruff) from animals such as dogs and cats. These skin cells, which contain secretions from glands in the animal's skin, float in the air, where they may be breathed in by people.

Animal dander is an allergen. Animal fur or hair is not an allergen. When a person is allergic to an animal, such as a dog or cat, the allergy may be to animal dander (skin cells) or to dried saliva from the hair of a cat.

Last Revised: July 2, 2009

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Harold S. Nelson, MD - Allergy and Immunology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Latest Allergy News
Many kids still exposed to secondhand smoke in cars

February 5, 2012 — NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - A new government study reports that while fewer kids and teens are getting exposed to secondhand smoke while riding in the car, rates of exposure are still high enough to warrant concern.

Traffic-related asthma costs two cities big money

February 3, 2012 — NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Traffic pollution may cost two California cities millions each year in managing children's asthma, a new study suggests.

Breastfeeding tied to stronger lungs, less asthma

February 2, 2012 — NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Kids who were breastfed as babies may have better lung function, and a lower risk of asthma, than those who were formula-fed, two new reports suggest.

Select news items provided by Reuters Health