Second Location: Beginning in August 2026, we will see patients on Tuesdays at our new location: 8888 Ladue Road, Suite 105, St. Louis. Our primary location at 4800 Mexico Rd in St. Peters will be closed on Tuesdays. We look forward to welcoming you to our new space!
Rabbit Allergy Symptoms, Testing & Treatment
When you’re ready to see an allergist, Dr. Sonia Cajigal is a board-certified pet allergy doctor in St. Peters, Missouri that’s accepting new patients throughout the St. Louis area. Schedule your first visit at St. Louis Family Allergy today!
“This office was AMAZING! I am so very impressed. I have never had more of a thorough doctor. The office staff was great too. I brought a newborn in and they all treated the situation of me having my baby there great. She made sure to lay everything out on the table of what could be the cause of my symptoms. She was so helpful.”
– Rachel M, February 2022
Can You Be Allergic to Rabbits?
Rabbit allergy is less common than cat or dog allergy but it does occur, particularly in people with asthma, allergic rhinitis, or occupational exposure. Because rabbits are often perceived as low-allergy pets, rabbit allergy is frequently underrecognized.
There is no truly hypoallergenic rabbit. Short-haired and long-haired rabbits produce similar allergenic proteins.
What is Rabbit Allergy?
Rabbit allergy symptoms are not caused by fur alone, but by allergenic proteins found in rabbit dander (skin flakes), saliva, urine, and hair. These allergens become airborne, settle on surfaces, and may trigger symptoms even without direct contact with the animal.
See a Pet Allergist
in St. Louis, Missouri
Rabbit Allergy Symptoms
Environmental Control
- Sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes
- Coughing or throat irritation
- Sinus pressure or fatigue
Skin Symptoms (Rabbit Allergy Rash)
- Red, itchy patches
- Raised welts or hives
- Worsening eczema
These reactions are often described as a rabbit fur allergy or rabbit hair allergy, but the immune response is actually to proteins carried on the fur, not the hair itself.
Severe Rabbit Allergy
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Worsening asthma control
Severe reactions related to rabbit exposure are most commonly asthma-related. Life-threatening allergic reactions are uncommon, but breathing symptoms should always be taken seriously.
Rabbit Allergy Testing and Diagnosis
- Symptom and exposure review, including timing and triggers
- Skin prick testing, the most common and reliable method
- Blood testing when skin testing is not appropriate
Testing helps distinguish a true allergy to rabbit from reactions caused by hay, bedding, dust mites, or mold. A positive rabbit allergy test confirms immune sensitivity but does not predict how severe symptoms will be or require giving up a pet. Test results help guide treatment decisions.
in St. Louis, Missouri
Rabbit Allergy Treatment Options
Environmental Control
- Keep rabbits out of bedrooms and main living spaces
- Use HEPA air purifiers designed to reduce airborne allergens
- Have a non-allergic household member clean cages
- Wash hands and change clothing after exposure
A rabbit dander allergy can be challenging because allergens often persist in the environment even after the rabbit is removed. Rabbit allergens can remain in carpets and rugs, upholstered furniture, bedding and clothing, and heating and ventilation systems. Symptoms may continue for weeks to months after a rabbit is removed unless thorough cleaning is performed.
Medications for Rabbit Allergies
- Antihistamines for sneezing, itching, and runny nose
- Nasal steroid sprays for congestion
- Eye drops for allergic eye symptoms
- Asthma medications if breathing symptoms occur
Allergy Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
Common Misconceptions
Reactions are caused by allergenic proteins on fur, not the hair itself.
“Short-haired rabbits don’t cause allergies.”
All rabbits produce allergens regardless of coat length.
“It’s just the hay or bedding.”
While bedding can contribute, true rabbit allergy is common and often overlooked.
“Mild symptoms aren’t a concern.”
Even low-level exposure can worsen asthma or progress over time.
When to See an Allergist for Rabbit Allergies
- Rabbit allergy symptoms are persistent
- You develop a rabbit allergy rash or breathing symptoms
- Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective
- You suspect a severe rabbit allergy affecting asthma control
Dr. Cajigal can help confirm your diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.
References
[2] Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: https://www.aafa.org/
Asthma
Drug Allergies
Eye Allergies
Food Allergies
Nasal Allergies
Skin Allergies
Allergy Shots
Allergy Testing
Biologic Therapy
Pet Allergist
Dr. Sonia Cajigal
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We are currently accepting new adult and pediatric patients at St. Louis Family Allergy!
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