Food allergies in the dog and cat (Proceedings)
A. Etiology is a type I hypersensitivity predominantly but a type III and type IV reaction may also occur. Animals are predisposed to develop food allergy through undefined genetic factors.
B. Historical findings1. No sex predisposition exists
2. Breed predisposition may include Labrador retrievers, Shar Pei, English Springer Spaniels, Miniature Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, Collies, and Golden retrievers, but any dog may develop food allergy.
3. Primary complaint is pruritus that is non-seasonal.
4. Age of onset is usually less than 3 years but may occur later in life or at any age.
5. Problem persists regardless of the commercial brand of food fed because of the similarity of ingredients. Onset of symptoms is usually not associated with a recent dietary change. Many dogs with food allergies have been on the diet that they are allergic to for 2 or more years before showing clinical signs.
C. Clinical findings
1. Chief complaint is pruritus
D. Differential diagnoses
1. Non-seasonal atopy