Allergy Testing for Dogs & Cats
Is your pet constantly itching, chewing, or suffering from allergies? Eastex Veterinary Clinic provides comprehensive allergy testing to identify environmental and food allergens causing discomfort. Accurate diagnosis enables targeted treatment.
Types of Allergies We Test For
Environmental Allergies: Pollen, dust, mold, dander causing seasonal or year-round itching. Food Allergies: Triggered by specific protein or ingredient. Contact Allergies: Direct contact with irritating substance.
Allergy Testing Methods
Blood Testing (Serum IgE): Identifies antibodies to specific allergens. Useful for environmental allergies. Results show which allergens your pet reacts to. Quick, non-invasive, but less sensitive than intradermal testing.
Intradermal Skin Testing: Most accurate for environmental allergies. Small amounts of allergen injected into skin. Reactions appear within 15-20 minutes. Identifies exactly which allergens cause itching.
Food Trial (Elimination Diet): Removes suspected food allergen for 6-8 weeks. If itching resolves, food allergy confirmed. Simple but requires patience and strict adherence.
Pre-Test Preparation
Discontinue antihistamines and steroids 2-4 weeks before testing (they interfere with results). Treat active skin infections first—infections can mimic allergies. Rule out parasites with fecal exam and parasite prevention.
After Testing: Building Your Treatment Plan
Once allergens identified, we discuss management strategies: allergen avoidance if possible, diet modification for food allergies, medications to reduce itching, laser therapy, immunotherapy (allergy shots) to desensitize over time.
Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
For environmental allergies, immunotherapy gradually desensitizes immune system. Custom allergen extract given by injection. Requires 6-12 months of weekly injections, then maintenance. 60-80% of pets show significant improvement.
Allergy Testing FAQs
Which test is best for my pet?
Depends on allergy type. Intradermal most accurate for environmental. Blood test convenient. Food trial definitive for food allergies. We recommend based on symptoms.
Are allergy tests accurate?
Intradermal: 75-80% accurate. Blood tests: 60-70% accurate. Accuracy depends on allergen type and testing method. False positives possible.
How much does allergy testing cost?
Blood test: $200-400. Intradermal: $300-500. Food trial: cost of special diet. Call (281) 446-7148 for pricing.
Can I do food trial at home?
Yes, but requires strict adherence. Use prescription limited-ingredient diet exclusively (no treats, table food, flavored medications). Contamination invalidates trial.
What if testing shows no allergies?
Itching can result from infections, parasites, or other causes. We investigate further if testing negative.
Can allergies be cured?
Usually no, but manageable. Immunotherapy helps some. Most require ongoing management (avoidance, medication, dermatology care).
How long until I see improvement?
Food trial: 2-4 weeks. Immunotherapy: 3-6 months. Medications: 1-2 weeks. Timeline varies by allergy type and treatment.