Written by Dr Gary Post
ATOPY – Itchy Business
One of the most common visits to the vet are dogs and cats suffering from itchy skins. These are numerous causes for an itchy pet, but the most common form is Atopy or Atopic Dermatitis.
Similar to human allergies, it is brought on by seasonal pollens and other airborne allergens. Affected dogs persistently scratch, lick and bite and may present with ear problems as well. The constant scratching can lead to sores, hair loss and secondary infections often called hotspots. Cats suffering from allergic dermatitis constantly scratch and groom and may develop respiratory symptoms.
Allergic dermatitis is caused by sensitivity to allergens in the environment. These can be dust mites, tree, grass and weed pollens. The animal’s immune system over reacts to the allergen and the excess histamine and other inflammatory agent release causes local or general skin inflammation and itching. Allergens to pollens are mostly seasonal, but can get worse each year with additional allergen exposure.
Diagnosing atopic dermatitis is based on excluding other possible allergic skin conditions like flea allergy dermatitis, scabies (mite), food allergies and contact allergies (shampoos, soaps, detergents, plants, grass etc.). Blood tests can confirm atopic dermatitis and indicate what allergies are causing the problem. A more sensitive test can be undertaken by veterinary dermatologists where small amounts of allergen are injected into the skin and any allergic reactions noted.
Treating atopic dermatitis can be frustrating as avoiding the offending allergen is often impossible. Fortunately there are medications your veterinarian can prescribe to relieve the constant suffering that itchy pets endure.
Cortisone is a potent anti-inflammatory drug that quickly lessens redness, swelling and itchiness.
Antihistamines have some anti-inflammatory effect with less side effects associated with cortisone.
Food supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids help prevent the dry flaky skin seen in atopic patients.
Antibiotics and antifungal drugs are used to treat the secondary bacterial and fungal infections.
Topical treatments include medicated or soothing shampoos and conditioners containing oatmeal and aloe vera.
Hypo-sensitisation vaccines can be prepared by specialist dermatologists.
Immune modulating medication (Atopica) that targets the immune cells involved in the allergic reaction has proven to be very effective for long-term control. Apoquel is another recent medication developed for atopic dermatitis in dogs with fewer side effects than steroids.
Long term management of atopic dermatitis entails following your veterinarian’s advice and ensuring medication is always given on time. It can be tempting to stop treatment when symptoms improve, but without treatment symptoms will most certainly reoccur.
Wash your pets bedding regularly, preferably with a hypo-allergenic detergent, vacuum frequently with a high efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter cleaner, use air dehydration and purification systems and use insecticides routinely effective against dust mites and fleas. Maintain rigorous flea control at all times.