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Does your dog suffer from relentless itching due to allergies? If so, you’re not alone—many pet owners struggle with finding the right treatment to provide relief for their furry companions. At EVS Pet Urgent Care, we offer Cytopoint, an innovative, veterinarian-administered injection designed to reduce itching caused by allergic or atopic dermatitis in dogs. Here’s everything you need to know about how this treatment can help your pup feel more comfortable.
Why Are Dogs Itchy?
Itching in dogs can be caused by various underlying conditions, with allergies being one of the most common culprits. Some of the primary causes of itching include:
Seasonal Allergies: Pollen, mold, and other environmental allergens can trigger skin reactions in sensitive dogs, especially during certain times of the year.
Environmental Allergies: Dust mites, household cleaners, and even grass can cause irritation and itching.
Food Allergies: Some dogs may develop sensitivities to ingredients in their diet, such as beef, chicken, dairy, or grains, leading to chronic itching and skin inflammation.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis: Even a single flea bite can cause intense itching in dogs with flea allergies.
Hot Spots: Moist, inflamed areas of skin that develop due to excessive licking, scratching, or chewing, often secondary to an allergic reaction.
What Is Cytopoint?
Cytopoint is a USDA-approved targeted therapy that helps control itching in dogs with allergic or atopic dermatitis. It is a monoclonal antibody that works like your dog’s immune system to neutralize a key protein responsible for sending itch signals to the brain. Unlike steroids or antihistamines, Cytopoint specifically blocks itch at its source without suppressing the immune system.
Cytopoint is approved for dogs of any age, making it a great option for long-term allergy management. You and your veterinarian can discuss whether this treatment is the best choice for your dog based on their medical history and specific needs.
How Does Cytopoint Work?
Cytopoint is administered via injection by your veterinarian and typically provides relief for 4 to 8 weeks. Most dogs experience reduced itching within 1 to 2 days after treatment. By stopping the itch, Cytopoint helps prevent secondary skin infections caused by excessive scratching and allows your dog’s skin to heal naturally.
Additional Uses of Cytopoint
While Cytopoint is most commonly used to treat atopic dermatitis, it has also been shown to help manage itching associated with other conditions, including:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis: Cytopoint can help relieve itching caused by flea bites, but flea prevention should still be used.
Hot Spots: By reducing itching, Cytopoint can help prevent dogs from excessively licking or scratching, reducing the formation of hot spots.
Chronic Skin Inflammation: Dogs with recurring allergic flare-ups may benefit from Cytopoint as part of a long-term treatment plan.
What to Discuss With Your Veterinarian
Several factors can affect how well Cytopoint works for your dog. Before starting treatment, discuss the following with your veterinarian:
Any medications, supplements, or herbal therapies your dog is currently taking, including dosage and frequency.
Any current or past medical conditions your dog has had.
If your dog has been treated for allergies before, let your veterinarian know how well previous treatments worked.
If your dog is pregnant or nursing, talk to your veterinarian about potential risks.
Any past side effects from medications, including allergic reactions, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, or lethargy.
Is Cytopoint Safe for My Dog?
Cytopoint is generally well-tolerated, but no medication is 100% risk-free. It SHOULD NOT be used in dogs with a history of allergic reactions to it. Additionally, use with caution in pregnant, lactating, or breeding dogs, as it has not been extensively tested in these patients.
Possible Side Effects
While Cytopoint has been shown to be safe in most dogs, some rare side effects may occur, including:
Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site.
Temporary vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy for a few days after injection.
In extremely rare cases, serious allergic reactions may occur, including collapse, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or intense itching. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How Can I Tell When My Dog Needs Another Injection?
Every dog responds differently to Cytopoint, so it’s important to monitor your pet’s symptoms. Some dogs may need an injection every 4 weeks, while others may experience relief for up to 8 weeks. Keep track of when the itching returns so we can help determine the ideal schedule for your pet.
Why Choose Cytopoint Over Other Allergy Treatments?
Cytopoint offers several advantages over traditional allergy medications:
Long-lasting relief (4-8 weeks per injection)
Fast-acting (results in as little as 1-2 days)
Minimal side effects
No daily medication required
Safe for long-term use