Comprehensive Animal Allergy Testing
Below is a plain-language overview of the comprehensive animal allergy testing. Comprehensive Animal Allergy Testing is a blood test that checks for allergic sensitization to proteins found in common animals, including pets and livestock. It is usually ordered when someone has ongoing allergy symptoms and a clinician wants to identify which animal exposures may be contributing.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- Allergy
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $159
- Referral
- Not required
Comprehensive Animal Allergy Testing is a blood test that checks for allergic sensitization to proteins found in common animals, including pets and livestock. It is usually ordered when someone has ongoing allergy symptoms and a clinician wants to identify which animal exposures may be contributing.
What it measures
- Specific IgE to cat — Antibody linked to cat dander and saliva proteins.
- Specific IgE to dog — Antibody linked to dog dander and saliva proteins.
- Specific IgE to horse — Antibody linked to horse dander and serum proteins.
- Specific IgE to rodent — Antibody linked to mouse, rat, hamster, or guinea pig proteins.
- Specific IgE to farm animals — Antibody linked to cow, goat, or other livestock proteins.
- Total IgE — Overall antibody level that can support, but not confirm, an allergy picture.
Who it is for
A primary care clinician, allergist, or immunologist typically orders this test after reviewing symptoms, exposures, and medical history. It may also be used when skin testing is not practical.
Preparation
No fasting is required. Tell the clinician about antihistamines, steroids, or other allergy medicines, since some can affect allergy testing and may need to be paused.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as levels of specific IgE for each animal, often grouped as negative, low, moderate, or high. A clinician interprets these numbers alongside symptoms and exposure history; a positive result alone does not prove an allergy. This is general information, not medical advice.
How to order this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the comprehensive animal allergy testing is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I am allergic to my pet?
Not necessarily. It shows sensitization, which may or may not cause symptoms. A clinician can help connect the result to your actual symptoms.
Can I take my allergy medicine before the test?
Some medicines can affect results. Ask the clinician whether any of your current medicines should be paused and for how long.
How long does it take to get results?
Typical turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after the sample reaches the lab, though timing can vary.
Is this test painful?
It uses a standard blood draw, so you may feel a brief pinch when the needle goes in. Most people tolerate it well.