Understanding "Patch Test"

Sometimes we ask you to perform a “Patch Test” when you purchase a new product from us or try it on your new pet. What is a “Patch Test”? Do you, as pet parents, need one for your new pet? If yes, why? This blog encompasses information on what a “Patch Test” is, why you should exercise it when you’re using a new product, FAQs & much more.

What is a “Patch Test”?

Unlike patch tests used for allergic reactions, when we ask you for a ‘Patch Test’ for a variety of Zoivane products, be it shampoos or soaps, we request you to first test the product on a small patch of hair / skin on your pet. For example, if you’ve recently purchased our Neem Soap or our Ditch to Itch Shampoo or our Shampoo Collection & we’ve asked you to perform a patch test on your pet first, test the product on a small, visible area on your pet’s back.

Why a Patch Test?

Your pet may be allergic or sensitive to certain active or inactive ingredients in various pet products. Sudden or prolonged exposure to such products can trigger an allergic reaction. Check out some symptoms pet parents should watch out for: -

 

Many pets with allergies to shampoo also have other skin allergies.  Like humans, pets can be allergic to certain foods, to environmental allergens such as pollens, grasses, or dust mites, or to a combination of foods and environmental allergens. To address your pet’s allergies, the first step is getting them properly diagnosed by your veterinarian. 

Especially if you have a puppy/ kitten, or if you’re using a new product, we recommend undertaking a patch test. In such situations, monitor your pet for any increased itching, redness, scaling, lesions after bathing or using a new product.

Although true shampoo allergies are uncommon, they can occur and they can be tricky to manage. Some pets don’t have a true shampoo allergy but are simply irritated by residual shampoo left on their skin after a bath, so it’s important to rinse your dog thoroughly after every bath and ensure that all shampoo is washed away. If the product isn’t suiting your pet & you see one or more symptoms mentioned above, rinse the affected area in cool water as soon as possible.

How to perform a Patch Test?

Lather the shampoo well into your pet’s wet coat, let it stay for 5-10 minutes & rinse thoroughly. Wipe the area with a towel. Observe the washed area for a couple hours. Use cool water for rinsing as hot water can exacerbate itching. If you’re getting the desired result along with soft, fragrant skin then feel free to use the product comfortably for your pet.

How & how often should you bathe your pet?

If you’re a new pet parent, consult your veterinarian for an accurate explanation on how often you should bathe your pet depending on his breed, age, the weather, climate & temperature you subject him to. Generally, you should bathe your pet once or twice a week. However, taking the above factors into consideration, this number can vary.

How should you dry your pet?

After your pet has taken bath & has been rinsed well, he should ALWAYS be towel dried. Using a hair dryer isn’t recommended. If you must use one, then make sure to use it on a ‘cool’ setting; this is because heat can promote drying, irritating & itching of your pet’s skin.

Should you use regular shampoos for your pet?

Generally, the pH levels for human skin are more towards the acidic side (5-6 on the pH scale) & regular human shampoos are formulated to maintain this balance. Pets tend to have a much higher (more alkaline) skin pH; however, this varies with breed, gender, size, age & numerous other physiological & environmental factors. You should avoid long term exposure to human shampoos for your pet’s skin unless your veterinarian recommends a particular shampoo.

You can connect with Zoivane Pets on our Website, Instagram, Linkedin, Facebook & YouTube. For suggestions and writeups mail us at wecare.zoivane@gmail.com or Whatsapp us on +91-9727054006

 

 

 

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