How effective is allergy testing for pet allergy?

Skin-prick and blood tests can look for sensitivity to proteins associated with cats, dogs and other animals. These proteins may be present in dander, saliva or urine, and can travel on clothing or settle in rooms.

A positive result does not prove that every reaction around an animal is allergic, while a negative result does not explain symptoms caused by dust, pollen, mould or an irritant. The clinician will ask about timing, specific animals, indoor spaces and symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, hives or wheeze.

Keep a short exposure diary: note the animal, setting, time until symptoms and whether symptoms improve away from that setting. Bring it to the appointment with your medication list.

Do not provoke symptoms by handling an animal for a test. If sensitivity is likely, discuss ventilation, keeping the animal out of the bedroom, cleaning routines and suitable medicines. If you have asthma, ask how exposure may affect your asthma plan.

Seek urgent help for rapidly worsening wheeze, severe shortness of breath, throat swelling, faintness or widespread hives with breathing or stomach symptoms. Use prescribed emergency medicine according to your action plan while obtaining medical assistance.

Which animal allergens should be tested? Does my result fit the places where I react? What exposure changes and medicines could reduce symptoms without unnecessary restrictions?