Human Allergies to Pet Mice and Rats

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Human allergies to rodents are common.  The signs can be serious,

even life-threatening.  This problem is most frequently reported

among laboratory personnel, but individual pet mouse and rat

owners are equally vulnerable.



The offending allergens may be rodent dander and hair or proteins

in aerosolized rodent urine.  Allergy symptoms may include runny

eyes and nose, sneezing, congestion, coughing, shortness of

breath and anaphylactic shock.  Some develop a rash and/or hives,

especially in areas contacted by the claws or hair of a rodent.



Allergy to a pet mouse or rat must be considered if someone in a

household develops any of these signs.  The medical doctor

consulted about the problem must be made aware of the existence

of a pet rodent within the home.