Secretory IgA

Secretory IgA is the first line of immune defense at the gut lining. It is a marker of intestinal maturity in young dogs and cats, and an indicator of intestinal immune protection. Elevated levels may show an immune reaction to inflammation, parasites, or food sensitivities. Low levels of secretory IgA may identify an inability to have an immune response and high levels show that your pet is reacting to something. High levels will return to normal if what they are responding to goes away. Low levels of IgA have been associated with autoimmunity, allergies, and skin conditions.

Dogs:

  • Normal: 10-300 ug/g – No excess or impaired immune response
  • Low: <10 ug/g – May have an impaired response, treat and retest in 3 months
  • Borderline: 301- 350 ug/g – Continue to monitor, consider treatment options and retest in 3-6 months
  • High: >350 ug/g – Identifies a significant reaction.  Support, treat and retest in 3 months

Cats:

  • Normal: 10-350 ug/g – No excess or impaired immune response
  • Low: <10 ug/g – May have an impaired response, treat and retest in 3 months
  • Borderline: 350- 450 ug/g – Continue to monitor, consider treatment options and retest in 3-6 months
  • High: >450 ug/g – Identifies a significant reaction.  Support, treat and retest in 3 months

 

Immune Response

Continue with current diet and lifestyle

  • Consider a grain-free or hypoallergenic food
  • Consider a probiotic or prebiotic supplement to build good gut bacteria which is related to secretory IgA levels. Look for probiotics with a variety of healthy gut bacteria, referred to as multi-strain (ex. Visbiome Pet), spore-forming probiotics or Saccharomyces boulardii
  • Consider immune-supporting supplements such as FeraPet Fera Mushroom Immune Support, Thorne Myco-Immune or Standard Process Canine Immune System Support
  • Provide overall support of a healthy lifestyle including exercise, reducing stress and treatment of gut inflammation. Some research suggests adding time in nature and with other pets to lower overall stress levels
      • Retest in 3 months
      • Consider a grain-free or hypoallergenic pet food
      • Support with probiotics
      • Consider testing for parasites, gluten sensitivity and leaky gut
      • Retest in 3 months.