Pet Allergy Panel (Cat and Dog)
A comprehensive blood test that measures IgE antibody levels to both cat and dog dander to identify potential pet allergies.
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What this test measures
This panel measures IgE antibodies, which are proteins your immune system makes when it reacts to certain allergens like pet dander, saliva, or urine from cats and dogs. IgE is a protective blood protein that is produced when you're exposed to a substance that your body views as a threat. Therefore, measurable IgE may indicate the presence of an allergy.
Allergies to cats and dogs affect 10 to 20% of the world's population. Pet allergens contain certain proteins in dander (flecks of skin shed by pets), urine, and saliva. When individuals with pet allergies are exposed to these allergens, their immune system overreacts by producing IgE antibodies. These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. The test helps determine whether symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, or skin reactions may be related to exposure to cats or dogs.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals who experience respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, congestion, or wheezing when around cats or dogs should consider this test to identify potential triggers.
- Those with skin reactions including itching, hives, or eczema flare-ups after contact with pets may benefit from testing to confirm pet allergies.
- People considering pet adoption who want to understand their sensitivity to cats and dogs before bringing a pet into their home.
- Individuals with asthma symptoms that worsen around pets, as pet allergens can be significant triggers for asthmatic episodes.
- Those who experience eye symptoms like itching, watering, or redness when exposed to cats or dogs, which may indicate allergic conjunctivitis.
- People living with pets who suspect their symptoms may be related to animal exposure but want confirmation before making lifestyle changes.
What to expect
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. Individuals do not need to fast before the blood draw. It may be helpful to continue normal pet exposure patterns before testing rather than avoiding pets, as this provides the most accurate representation of your immune system's response.
Sample Type
The test requires a standard blood draw from a vein in the arm. The blood collection process is quick, typically taking just a few minutes, and involves inserting a small needle to collect the blood sample.
Collection
At the laboratory, a trained phlebotomist will cleanse the arm area, insert a needle to draw blood into collection tubes, and apply a bandage. The entire process is straightforward and typically completed within 10 minutes.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 2-5 business days after the laboratory receives the sample. Results will be provided through a secure online portal for convenient and confidential access.
Understanding your results
Specific IgE antibody results should be interpreted in relation to the clinical features, allergic history and other tests performed to assess allergic status. In general, higher IgE levels are associated with a greater chance of having a true allergy but do not predict how severe your allergic symptoms could be.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All ages | <0.35 kU/L | Normal/negative result indicating no significant allergic sensitization |
| All ages | 0.35-0.69 kU/L | Low level positive result suggesting mild sensitization |
| All ages | 0.70-3.49 kU/L | Moderate level positive result indicating moderate sensitization |
| All ages | >3.50 kU/L | High level positive result suggesting significant allergic sensitization |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and individual factors. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your overall health.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Normal values are typically less than 0.35 kU/L, which suggests no significant allergic sensitization to cat or dog dander. Low or undetectable IgE levels indicate that pet allergies are unlikely to be the cause of symptoms. However, a negative test may not rule out clinical allergy or even anaphylaxis, and other causes of symptoms should be considered. Results between 0.10-0.34 kU/L are intended for specialist use as the clinical relevance is undetermined.
What does a “High” result mean?
Elevated IgE levels to cat or dog dander indicate allergic sensitization and may be associated with symptoms when exposed to these pets. Higher levels are typically associated with a greater likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions, though the level does not necessarily predict symptom severity. Having measurable IgE for a particular allergen does not guarantee that you will have an allergic reaction when exposed to it. Results from this pet allergy test should be interpreted in the context of your symptoms and timing of exposure with a healthcare provider or an allergist.
Privacy & confidentiality
All test results are kept strictly confidential and are protected by HIPAA regulations. Results are not shared with your personal doctor unless you choose to share them, not added to your medical records, and not reported to insurance companies.
Frequently asked questions
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CPT Code: 86003, 86003
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.