ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGIES aka Atopy
- urgentpawsvetclini
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
What is atopy and what are its symptoms?
Atopy, or environmental allergy, is an allergic reaction to airborne substances like pollen, molds, house dust mites and animal dander (skin or hair fragments). It is most common in dogs, but some cats are also affected. The incidence of atopy depends as much upon a pet’s genetic susceptibility as exposure to the allergen itself. (An allergen is any agent causing the allergic reaction.) Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, Dalmatians, Chinese Shar-Pei, lots of bully breeds (think Pitbulls, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, American Bulldogs) are among the breeds that are particularly prone to atopy.
Itching, mostly around the face, feet, lower chest and belly, is the primary symptom. Depending on the cause, this may occur only seasonally (pollen) or year-round (molds, dust mites and dander). “Hot spots”, other skin infections and ear problems can develop. Frequent scratching due to chronic irritation may lead to hair loss. While the onset of these signs can be seen from 4 months to 7 years of age they are typically first noticed between 1–3 years of age.
How is atopy diagnosed?
Atopy is confirmed through a process of elimination. Other causes of itching, such as fleas, mites, lice, bacterial and yeast infections, as well as food allergies, must be ruled out first. Your veterinarian will ask you for a detailed history of your pet’s itching problem. Skin or serum (blood) testing for different allergens may then be performed to help pinpoint the exact cause.
How is atopy treated?
Atopy is a lifelong condition and there is no known cure. However, there are a number of ways to manage the problem:
Anti-itch therapy, including the use of drugs, medicated shampoos and conditioners.
Removing the source of the allergy from the environment as much as possible.
Hyposensitization uses a series of injections to gradually accustom your pet’s system to the allergen(s) causing the problem. Although its effectiveness varies, it provides at least some relief for around 75% of pets with atopy.
If the atopy is relatively mild (for example, occasional itching during the pollen season), you can use “Elizabethan” collars, T-shirts and socks to reduce irritation by physically preventing your pet from scratching or biting itself.
Environmental Management Tips
Keep pet inside while mowing the lawn; minimize exposure to mulch
Keep pet outside when vacuuming .
Consider applying parasite prevention.
To control mold spores in the house, maintain humidity levels between 40-45% using a dehumidifier especially in the summer and in the basement.
Change vacuum bags regularly.
Clean or replace filters for the central air system frequently.
Consider a HEPA filter for the area where your patient spends most of their time.
Consider purchasing vent register filters and changing them every 3-4 weeks, along with duct cleaning every 3 years.
Consider hypoallergenic mattress/pillow covers, remove cedar bedding.
Consider using T-shirts as a barrier to the environment and to prevent further damage from scratching.
Next year, rinse your Christmas tree before bringing it into the house.
Wash and dry any stuffed toy decorations in HIGH COTTON heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Environmental allergies can be frustrating for both pets and their owners, but with the right management plan, your pet can still live a happy and comfortable life. From itchy skin and ear infections to seasonal flare-ups, recognizing the signs early and seeking veterinary support can make all the difference.
If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s allergies, our team is here to help! Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sam to discuss your pet’s symptoms, treatment options, and ways to keep them feeling their best year-round.
