People are more likely to be allergic to cats than to dogs. The small size of cat dander allows it to stay in the air longer than dog dander, so you're more likely to breathe it in. Even kitty's grooming habits make matters worse by exposing you to saliva on its fur.

While no dog is hypoallergenic, some are bigger problems than others—especially if you're allergic to pollen since your dog can bring it inside on its coat. Don't think you're out of the woods if your pet is a bird instead of a cat or a dog. Feathers, even in a pillow, can cause allergic reactions or asthma symptoms.

To avoid triggering an asthma attack from pet hair or dander:

• When your pet comes in from outdoors, wipe him or her with a damp cloth.
• Bathing your dog or cat weekly may cut down on their dander. (Your cat may prefer a damp-cloth rubdown.)
• Grooming should be done outdoors. Ask someone who doesn't have asthma to do the grooming and change the litter or bathe your pets.
• Never allow a pet in your bedroom.
• Make a comfortable home for your pet outdoors, if possible.
• Consider replacing carpets and upholstered furniture with washable rugs and slipcovers.
• Vacuum often, ideally using a cleaner with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter.
• Put a HEPA air filter in the rooms where your pet spends the most time. (It may help to remove dander, pollen, and dust particles from the air. But it must be cleaned frequently.)
• Change your home's heating and air-conditioning filters regularly.