Patients become allergic to rodents due to exposure to these animals in their daily work. The most common people at risk are veterinarians, laboratory technicians, and people who live in close quarters with rodents (such as pet owners and those who live in rodent-infested homes).

Some example of common rodent that humans come in contact with include mice, rats, and guinea pigs. The rodent's urine has a high concentration of protein, which is the primary allergen to humans. The urine is often sprayed rather than deposited, thereby increasing human exposure. After the urine dries, the urinary proteins become air-borne and are inhaled, leading to allergic symptoms.

The use of HEPA filters is the most effective way to combat rodent allergies. There is currently no immunotherapy against this type of allergy.