Allergic to goolies

[minnow]

Hopefully this is the right section... didn't seem to fit in the rat pics and chat area.

So, I'm allergic to intact boy rats. Specifically, their urine. They walk on me, I get a rash. I accidentally put my arm somewhere that they've recently peed, I get a rash. So, what protective measures should I take until neuters happen and their effects kick in? Note that I don't have any turtlenecks anymore, and it's basically impossible to find them here this time of year. I get the sinking feeling that the clothing barrier may not be enough considering how well rattie pee soaks in...

 

[jorats]

I have that as well. What works for me is after my play session, I rinse my arms in cold water thoroughly. It feels really good. Also, allergy pills can help even stop the hives.
Do you have any long sleeve sweaters? I don't worry much about my neck, I try to stop them from climbing up but it's my arms, wrists specifically that get bad.

 

[eagle]

Maybe keep baby wipes handy. I have had issues with a couple of mine, but I think it was more the buck grease.

 

[minnow]

I'll try both - I know a shower afterward helps, and I'll do that if I need to, but it really makes it trickier to give them a good play session when I have to schedule in a shower right after too. Simon and Garfunkel need a little extra play time to get them used to being handled again (their boy was allergic too, thus the surrender). I'm only concerned about chest coverage because that's where I get the most scratches - I carry to the chest and encourage shoulder rats. Both of the boys like being snuggled that way too.

Maybe I'll just have to wear a hoodie and carry boys in the pocket(s).