K9 Carts Glossary

Atopy

is an allergic hypersensitivity affecting a part of the body not in direct contact with the allergen. In cats and dogs, atopy is the equivalent of human hay fever. Dogs with atopy tend to be very itchy or pruritic. Atopy may be treated by removing the offending allergen, as in a particular food, allergy shots to reduce sensitivity to the allergen, or medications that suppress the allergic response.