Scientists claim one in 20 pets allergic to their owners

Research by scientists at Edinburgh University has shown one in 20 pets are allergic to their owners.

While one in four people suffer from pet allergies up to 75,000 cats and dogs itch and sneeze because of an aversion to humans.

Scientists say the condition is caused by an allergy to human skin or a reaction to dust mites which feed off dead skin cells.

Dr Steve Shaw, of the Animal Health Trust, told the Edinburgh Evening News symptoms include itchiness on the face and paws of dogs and cats which chew and lick their fur out.