Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
08:05
Murine Model of Allergen Induced Asthma
Published on: May 14, 2012
Feline atopy in three littermates
1Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 Linden Drive West, Madison, WI 53706, USA. derm.km@svm.vetmed.wisc.edu
Veterinary Dermatology
|June 26, 2001
Summary
A pruritic skin disease in three sibling cats was diagnosed as feline atopy after ruling out infections and parasites. The diagnosis was confirmed by intradermal skin testing and response to treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Feline Medicine
Background:
- Pruritic skin diseases in cats can be challenging to diagnose.
- Differential diagnoses include parasitic infestations, infections, and allergic conditions.
Observation:
- Three sibling cats presented with progressive pruritus (hair pulling, hair loss, excessive grooming) starting at six months of age.
- Initial treatments for fleas and ear mites were ineffective.
- Exclusion of infectious causes and lack of response to environmental/dietary changes were noted.
Findings:
- Feline atopy was diagnosed based on clinical signs, history, and elimination of other causes.
- Intradermal skin testing supported the diagnosis.
- Positive response to therapy confirmed feline atopy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering feline atopy in pruritic cats.
- Diagnostic challenges in multi-cat households are emphasized.
- Definitive diagnosis requires a systematic approach, including allergy testing.
Related Concept Videos
01:39Epistasis
In addition to multiple alleles at the same locus influencing traits, numerous genes or alleles at different locations may interact and influence phenotypes in a phenomenon called epistasis. For example, rabbit fur can be black or brown depending on whether the animal is homozygous dominant or heterozygous at a TYRP1 locus. However, if the rabbit is also homozygous recessive at a locus on the tyrosinase gene (TYR), it will have an unshaded coat that appears white, regardless of its TYRP1...
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...