How to Prepare for a Cat & Dog Allergy Test Profile: Fasting

At a glance

Cat & Dog Allergy Test Profile: prep snapshot

Sample type: Blood draw
Fasting: Fasting is usually not required for this allergy blood test, but requirements can vary by lab.
Best collection time: This test can generally be collected at any time of day that is convenient for you.
Typical turnaround: Varies by collection lab
Category: Allergy

Preparing for a Cat & Dog Allergy Test starts with three questions: whether you need to fast, when to collect, and what to bring. The Cat & Dog Allergy Test is a blood test that checks whether you are allergic to cat or dog dander.

What the Cat & Dog Allergy Test measures

The test measures immune markers in your blood that react to cat and dog dander allergens. Elevated levels can indicate an allergic sensitization to cats, dogs, or both.

Cat dander allergen reactivity
Dog dander allergen reactivity
Overall allergy sensitization

How to prepare for the Cat & Dog Allergy Test

Standard preparation is generally all that is needed for this test. Confirm any timing or fasting instructions with the testing location before your visit.

Confirm with the collection lab whether any fasting is required before your blood draw.
Stay well hydrated by drinking water before your appointment to make the blood draw easier.
Tell the collection staff about any medications, supplements, or allergy treatments you currently take.
Avoid making major changes to your diet or routine right before the test unless the lab advises otherwise.
Bring a list of your current medications and any prior allergy testing results to your appointment.

Fasting, timing, sample type, and what to bring

Fasting

Fasting is usually not required for this allergy blood test, but requirements can vary by lab. Confirm with your lab whether you need to fast.

Best time to collect

This test can generally be collected at any time of day that is convenient for you. If the lab gives specific timing instructions, follow those instead.

Sample type

Blood draw. The collector will explain the process before starting.

What to bring

Your printed lab order or requisition form — the ordering physician prepares it for you after you order, and you print it (or fax it from your account) before visiting
Your order confirmation email, in case the collection site asks to see it
A government-issued photo ID (most collection sites verify identity at check-in)
A written list of the medications and supplements you currently take
A short-sleeved or loose-sleeved shirt for an easy blood draw
Water to drink before the draw and a light snack for afterward, if your test requires fasting

You do not need an insurance card or a payment method at the collection site: the lab does not bill insurance, and you pay at order time, so there is no copay or deductible. The lab also provides the physician's requisition, so you do not need a separate doctor's referral.

Order process and what-to-bring details reflect the lab's published instructions, paraphrased in our own words. Confirm final requirements with the collection lab that will perform your draw.

What happens during the collection visit

A healthcare professional collects a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the draw usually takes only a few minutes.

Details worth confirming with the collection lab before your visit:

Does this test require fasting or any other preparation?
When can I expect my results to be available?
Are there any medications I should pause before the blood draw?

Why a clinician may order this test

A clinician may order this test when you have allergy symptoms and want to know whether cat or dog dander is a trigger. It can help guide conversations about avoidance, environment changes, or further evaluation.

Your results and next steps

Reference ranges and reporting formats vary by laboratory, so your results should be interpreted using the range provided by the testing lab. Discuss what your specific results mean with your healthcare provider.

General test information is compiled from publicly available reference material, including MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov), and is reviewed for clarity. Preparation and what-to-bring details reflect the lab's published instructions, paraphrased into our own words. Preparation instructions, timing, and pricing vary by collection lab — always confirm them with the lab that will perform your draw.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast for the Cat & Dog Allergy Test?

Fasting is generally not required, but requirements can differ by lab. Confirm with your testing location before your appointment.

How long does it take to get results?

Results are typically available within one to three business days, though timing can vary by laboratory.

Can this test tell me if I am allergic to cats or dogs?

It checks for sensitivity to cat and dog dander, which can help identify whether either animal may be triggering your symptoms.

What should I do before my blood draw?

Drink water, bring your identification and medication list, and confirm any preparation instructions with the lab ahead of time.

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