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ALLERGY
TESTING
Did you know that approximately 1 out of 10 pets
suffer from allergies? The symptoms, however, are not
quite the same as in humans. The most common sign of
allergy in dogs and cats is itching, manifested by
scratching, rubbing, licking, and chewing. In some
cases, vomiting and diarrhea may be present. In many
cases, cats will develop skin lesions without associated
itching.
Allergy is an inherited disease that is the result of
the immune system abnormally reacting to certain common
substances in the environment. These substances are
called allergens and are usually pollens of weeds, trees
and grasses, house dust, insects, human and animal
dander, molds, and chemicals. The allergic dog or cat
makes a special type of antibodies called immunoglobulin
E (IgE antibodies) against these substances. Whenever
the pet comes in contact with these allergens, the IgE
antibodies attach themselves to them. When this happens,
a series of chemical reactions occur in the body that
result in the release of mediators that cause
inflammation and itching.
While approximately 40% of skin irritation in dogs
and cats are allergy related, it must be emphasized that
not all skin problems in pets are due to allergies. This
is why it is important that your pet's skin problem be
accurately diagnosed so that proper treatment can be
administered.
Finding out what causes the allergies in a dog or cat
requires some careful detective work. There are several
methods used to identify the problem that may be
occurring in your pet. These may include a skin test or
a more sensitive laboratory blood test.
While avoidance of the substance identified as
causing the allergies in your pet is the best form of
treatment, it is not always practical. A strict flea
control program and removing foods positively identified
during the blood test from the diet can help control
both flea and food allergies. Allergies due to pollens,
molds, dander, etc are almost impossible to avoid. Drugs
such as corticosteroids and antihistamines can be
valuable in temporarily relieving symptoms but the
prolonged usage of steroids can cause serious systemic
side effects.
If you suspect your pet has allergies, please contact
our office about a consultation. This will allow us to
determine the best possible treatment for your pet.
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