Pruritus in dogs and cats part 2: allergic causes of pruritus and the allergic patient

There are many causes of pruritus in domesticated dogs and cats and in this article, the second part of three papers devoted to the subject, the major allergic (hypersensitive) causes are discussed. Despite the tempting tendency to consider ectoparasites a major cause of pruritus in pets, the advent of a number of reliable, safe, effective and long-lasting ectoparasiticides into the veterinary market in recent decades, has meant that the average dog and cat, treated regularly and prophylactically for fleas, ticks and mites, is far less likely to become infested by such parasites. Consequently, allergic causes of itching have become relatively more likely to be seen in general practice. It is therefore important for both veterinary surgeons and nurses to recognise the historical and clinical features of these skin diseases, to allow an appropriate diagnostic and treatment plan to be discussed by the veterinary team and with the client.