Possible GP Allergy

[elsewhere]

Hey guys! It's been a while since I've been on here, and I hate logging back in to make this of all threads. Lately my mother and I have been noticing that I'm having allergic reactions to Gilbert and Mordecai. I've been getting rashes on my arms after holding them, and today they scratched up my arms and chest, which resulted in swollen scratches that happens with my friend, who is allergic to GP's. I am honestly terrified at the prospect of being allergic to them, because my mother will take it as an opportune chance to get them out of the house ASAP. I love these little guys with all of my heart, and I'm making sure I'm allergic to them before jumping to conclusions, but just in case I'm posting here.

I'll be getting my allergies tested for GP's within the next month. The reason I'm making this thread for is; what if I'm allergic? I've made a commitment to them, and when my mother brought up that we'd have to give them away, it reminded me of all of those horrible 'allergies' ads you see for them, which I want no part of. Is there anything I can do other than medications for allergies? Does anyone have some kind of treatment, other than, of course, not holding them? Any advice is greatly appreciated, even just tips until I can get my allergies tested!

PS- we know it isn't the hay, I've been fine holding that and feeding it to them, no reactions there.

[margaret6]

Elsewhere, it's strange that you have mentioned this. I have had piggies for 2 yrs now but developed a bad cough in December, I've had every test available and apart from whooping cough for which I've to get another test, the dr can find nothing. I did think of my piggies and started wearing a mask when cleaning and handling (no difference though). If it's just rashes on your arms it's more like a local reaction I would think, when it comes to nasal, breathing and cough issues that is a wee problem. Try wearing long sleeves and plastic gloves and see what happens. Interesting fact that I found out recently, the very first inhaler was invented by a man who was allergic to his guinea pigs but he kept them. Let us know how you get on.

[3piggles]

Guinea pigs don't have any dander, so no more reason to be allergic to them than to other humans. You could be allergic to the hay pollen processed in their urine. Most hay allergies are from breathing the pollen, but if you use local field hay, it could contain other plants that give allergic reactions. If you're not using bagged hay, I would try that.

What do you use for bedding? I know you've said, but I don't remember. There may be an option that will absorb more urine.

Meanwhile, dedicate some kind of long sleeved smock to use when you handle the pigs. If you snuggle them under your chin, try a scarf to protect your skin. If it's the urine on their feet, try wiping their feet with awet cloth once you've picked them up. Just have it handy and do a quick wipe of all four paws.

If the dr says you're allergic to the pig themselves, get a second opinion.

Good luck ♡


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[glittze2001]

I also suffer when dealing with my piggies but it's the hay for me. Even just picking them up and smuggling causes really bad hay fever for me, even worse after cleaning cage out. The only way I can stop it is to take antihistamines regularly! They don't seem to touch it if I take them when it starts. Has to be in my system. But definitely worth it. I also heard u can't be allergic to piggies coz their hair is the same as humans hair?? Xx

[elsewhere]

Thanks so much guys, this really helps! I'll be wearing a turtleneck for the time being with them, just in case! I have fleece bedding with them, so I don't think that would cause a reaction. 3piggles, I have local hay with a variety of other (piggy safe, I've checked it out) plants. It could totally be one of them stuck to a pig when I pick them up. It could also be the urine, so I'll do a foot bath today. What would I do without you guys? Worry to death, probably!

[3piggles]

Glitze, wipe them gently with a damp cloth. It should greatly reduce the pollen in their hair. You should mist the cage and the pigs with a plant mister, not sprayer. It will dampen doen the pollen in the air without getting anything wet.

I noticed how much Mia smelled like urine when I picked her up today. Get the right after they pee, and they have a lot on their feet and tummy. Wiping with a damp cloth should help.

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[Bean]

Sorry you are having an itchy reaction - hope you find a simple way to reduce it to an acceptable reaction. The smock and quick flannel wipe sound like great ideas!

I don't generally have a reaction to the pigs, but I do find that if they climb up on my chest and I'm not wearing a high necked top, the skin can get quite red and lots of big scratches show up, even though I haven't felt their claws on me. I know my skin there is much more sensitive there (and my face, but they don't climb there haha!), so I guess that's why.

Have you noticed your skin being more sensitive in general lately? Sometimes weather changes like an increase in sun exposure can trigger off a bit of sensitivity, or a change in washing detergent. Might be worth thinking if anything else might have changed to put your skin on edge a bit?

[3piggles]

I have extremely sensitive skin (thanks Mom) so I often have to cover up or slather exposed areas with a protective cream.

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[glittze2001]

Thanks for the advice 3piggles will give the plant mister a go! :-)