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ATOPYJust as airborne allergy is common in people, it is also common in dogs and cats. Common allergens are pollens, dander, grasses, trees, and fabrics; any airborne particle can potentially become an allergen. Features of Atopic DermatitisAtopy usually produces a seasonal itchiness. After several years, the duration of the itchy period extends. Then finally, the pet is itchy nearly all year round. Itchiness due to atopy responds rapidly to cortisone-type/steroid medications.Atopy is associated with irritation in certain parts of the body. In dogs, these areas include around the eyes and mouth, the ears (with frequent ear infections), the armpits, legs, and abdomen, and around the anusIn cats, the allergic pattern may be facial, may be reflected as hair loss, or may show as a rash of tiny seed-like scabs in various areas of the body.Treatment for Atopic DermatitisThe goal of treatment is to reduce to itchiness to an acceptable level for the pet and to minimize the occurrence of skin infections.Prednisone (or other related steroids):These cortisone-type medications tend to be useful as the first line of defense against itchy skin. Problems arise when the pet’s need for itch control demands excessive use of prednisone. Prednisone is a hormone, affecting many body systems. A few of the side effects include the following:Excess thirst and urinary incontinence, excess appetite and weight gain, muscle breakdown, immune suppression, panting, and the potential for Diabetes and Iatrogenic Cushing’s DiseaseAntihistamines:These are far less harmful than prednisone but only 10-20% of dogs will respond to any given antihistamine. Pets that cannot get by solely on antihistamines may be able to lower their prednisone requirement when using an antihistamine together with prednisone. Fatty Acid Supplements or a Therapeutic Diet:These special fatty acids and therapeutic diets act as medications, reducing the production of inflammatory chemicals within the skin. They are often used in conjunction with antihistamines.Cyclosporine (Atopica):This medication is shown to be as effective as prednisone for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. This product, which modulates the abnormal immune reaction in atopy, has been a true breakthrough in reducing the need for steroids. It is a relatively expensive medication compared with steroids but does not lead to long term debilitating side effects as steroids can. Topicals:Shampoos, wipes, sprays, and ointments may also be a helpful addition to one’s anti-itch armament. The disadvantage is that these products must be used at least 2-3 times a week. Hyposensitization:Just as people have allergy shots, so can pets; however, the process is not without difficulty and one should not expect hyposensitization to end all itchy skin concerns.Allergy shots require approximately 6-12 months to begin working25% of atopic dogs will not respond25% will require prednisone at least some timesTreatment of Bacterial/Yeast Skin and Ear Infections: Atopic dogs will frequently get secondary bacterial or yeast skin and ear infections, especially when the itching is not adequately controlled. Your veterinarian may perform skin and ear tests to determine if an infection is present and will prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications as needed. It is important prevent atopic pets from traumatizing their skin and causing secondary infections. An E-collar should be placed at the first sign of excessive itching to prevent licking/chewing and ear scratching. Doggy socks or t-shirts can also be used to prevent trauma to various parts of the body. Food Allergy Trial:Food allergies and airborne allergies both present a similar distribution of itchiness and can be difficult to distinguish, so your veterinarian may recommend a food allergy trial to determine if your pet has an allergy to a food ingredient. ................
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