PAX: Exploring Pet Allergies for Owners
For Dogs, Cats and Horses
What is an Allergy?
Allergies are chronic conditions where the immune system reacts to harmless substances (allergens) as if they are threats.
-Allergies can develop at any age and may involve one or multiple allergens.
-They cause discomfort for pets and stress for owners.
-Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening.
Does Your Pet Show These Symptoms?
- Itchy, red skin or rash (eczema) — scratching, biting, licking, gnawing, rolling or rubbing
- Red, itchy, watery eyes or ears
- Sneezing
- Patchy hair loss or plaques
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- Wheezing and coughing (especially in cats)
Your pet could have an underlying allergy!
What is IgE?
IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is an antibody that normally fights parasites.
Sometimes, it mistakenly targets allergens, triggering histamine release.
-Testing IgE helps identify specific allergens affecting your pet.
How Can the PAX Test Help?
PAX is a comprehensive allergy panel for:
- Inhalants
- Flies, fleas, midges
- Foods
- Latex
- Insect venoms
-Tests for both whole allergens (extracts) and molecular components
-Helps guide treatment and avoidance strategies
Where to Begin
1. Visit your veterinarian to collect a small blood sample
2. Lab will contact you for payment once sample is received
3. Pay via EFT or OZOW secure link
- Use owner/guarantor’s ID as reference
- Send proof to petallergy@ampath.co.za
Results are easy to understand and sent to your vet - You can also print them at an Ampath Care Centre or email the lab
Results help your vet diagnose and manage the allergy
Advantages of PAX
- Only a small blood sample needed
- Tests for multiple allergens at once
- Supports long-term solutions like immunotherapy
Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy
Discuss with your vet!
Trains your pet’s immune system to not overreact to allergens
Payment Info
- OZOW Secure Payment
- Email: petallergy@ampath.co.za