Cytopoint and Other Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Lots of Kiwis are Googling “Cytopoint injection for dogs cost” and it’s no wonder. When our dogs itch, they use their claws to scratch, leading to open wounds, infection, flyaway fur and more itch! Cytopoint is a relatively new atopic dermatitis treatment option for dogs.

Atopic dermatitis is an itchy skin condition in dogs caused by allergic reaction.

In this article, we’re exploring some common questions around Cytopoint for dogs, from cost and efficacy to side effects and alternatives. We also take a look at a range of treatment options for itchy dogs with allergies.

What is atopic dermatitis in dogs?

Atopic dermatitis is an environmental allergy in dogs. It causes intense itching and although the symptoms may come and go, it’s a life-long condition.

That said, as any human with environmental allergies knows, if you’re able to avoid being around or near what’s causing the allergy, you can often avoid or at least mitigate the symptoms.

Atopic dermatitis affects between 10 -15% of dogs. Of these, 40-75% of cases are seasonal but can eventually become year round.

Finding the root cause isn’t always easy so many pup parents seek medication and other treatment options, such as Cytopoint for dogs. Here are some behaviours and symptoms of atopic dermatitis in dogs:

• Chewing / licking feet
• Scratching behind the elbows
• Face rubbing
• Scooting
• Hair loss
• Redness
• Spots of fur discolouration
• Belly rashes
• Greasy and flaky skin

How do you treat atopic dermatitis in dogs NZ?

Atopic dermatitis in dogs requires treatment since scratching can get out of hand leading to more damage and ultimately infection. Since atopic dermatitis in dogs is a dog skin condition caused by environmental allergens, one of the best solutions can be isolating that allergenic and keeping it away from pooch.

Unfortunately this isn’t always easy – the seasons change all the time bringing a variety of ever-changing plants, pollens, seeds, fleas and mites. Cytopoint is a relatively new product which is seeing lots of interest since it works quickly often with long lasting effects.

Of course, when it comes to allergies and atopic dermatitis in dogs in particular, there are a range of treatment options. Depending on the dog and the allergen, different treatments yield different results. Let’s take a look at some of these options.

Atopic dermatitis in dogs: treatment options

• Allergen immunotherapy
• Antihistamines
• Supplements (ie: omega 3 fatty acids)
• Glucocorticoids (synthetic versions of naturally occurring steroids)
• Apoquel (oral anti-itch, anti- inflammatory medication)
• Environmental control
• Flea control
• Cytopoint (engineered antibodies given by injection)

Of course, these aren’t the full range of options and sometimes people have success just by changing their dog’s shampoo or food, for example. In this PD Pet Care vlog, Dr Cath shares more treatment options and best practices for seasonal dog allergies:

Does Cytopoint help with skin allergies?

As you can see from the above, when it comes to atopic dermatitis in dogs, several possible treatment options exist – from lifestyle changes to medical options. One of the newer options is Cytopoint for dogs with itchy skin.

Cytopoint is a symptomatic treatment so it stops symptoms but doesn’t cure the allergic condition.

For many dogs, this treatment has quick acting, long lasting effects that can range from one to two months before another injection is needed. The injection is administered just under the skin and is estimated to help with skin allergies for three out of four dogs.

What is the downside of Cytopoint?

Cytopoint is an antibody protein that can be given to almost any dog (though the dog must weigh at least three kilograms). One of the most noted downsides of Cytopoint is that it doesn’t always work to the same degree for all dogs and doesn’t work for every dog either.

Some of the possible side effects from Cytopoint in dogs include:

• Anaphylaxis (extreme, life-threatening allergic reaction)
• Facial swelling
• Hives
• Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
• Seizures, convulsions or loss of coordination
• Pain or swelling around the site of injection

How expensive is Cytopoint for dogs?

Cytopoint is a prescription medicine that can cost around $200 a treatment. The cost may range in price depending on your vet but also on the size of your dog as it costs more to administer to bigger dogs.

The cost also ranges depending on whether it’s an ongoing treatment throughout the year or simply one your dog needs in specific seasons. Speak to your vet to find out what the cost would be for your pup.

Award winning pet insurance

There are many advances in animal medicine all the time. Ultimately when it comes to atopic dermatitis in dogs, regardless of which treatment option you choose – trying to identify the culprit is important.

Any allergy makes your dog’s immune system work overtime. Removing it from your home or keeping it away from your dog will help their overall health.

“Identifying and eliminating the allergen that triggers the condition can be a great solution. Some grasses, like Kikuyu, can cause severe itching and irritation in my Bulldog, so I avoid this like the plague. Diet and nutrition can play a role in improving skin health and reducing inflammation.”

– Michelle Le Long, PD Insurance COO

Although prevention is better than cure, that’s not always possible. Having pet insurance can help you cover the cost of a wide range of unexpected vet visits. Our Classic and Deluxe dog insurance and cat insurance plans help provide cover for allergic skin conditions (and so much more).

Get one or more months of FREE pet insurance when you buy your plan online. Click below to get a quote.