22/10/2026
👋🏼 Just sharing some articles which we found to be quite informative for us.
Occasional itching is normal in any pet. However, if your dog is scratching and biting more than usual, it may signal a cause for concern. In these cases, it's advisable to consult a veterinary clinic.
Information taken from:
https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/insurance/article/cytopoint-injection-vs-apoquel-for-dogs-200858628.html
https://www.zoetisus.com/content/_assets/docs/PDFs/ZPN/Fetch-the-Best-Leave-Behind-ZPC-01214.pdf
https://www.mountpleasant.com.sg/education/cytopoint-vs-apoquel-for-itchy-pups/
What is Cytopoint?
Cytopoint is an antibody that binds to a single specific itch-producing protein in a dog's bloodstream. Cytopoint prevents these proteins (cytokines) from binding to the skin's nerve receptors, reducing the transmission of the itch response.
What is Apoquel?
Apoquel targets inflammation at its root. It acts against specific proteins that trigger a dog's immune signalling response, blocking the production of the itch-producing cytokines in the first place. Cytopoint and Apoquel both help to reduce the circulating concentration of the itch-producing cytokine called Interleukin-31. Cytopoint binds to the circulating chemical, knocking it out whilst Apoquel works to reduce its production.
The main difference between Cytopoint and Apoquel is the method of administration and effective period. Cytopoint is an injection that needs to be taken every four weeks. Apoquel comes in the form of a pill and requires daily oral dosing.
Cytopoint is ideal for dogs who are younger than one year old, have difficulty swallowing pills, or are too small for owners to accurately dose with Apoquel at home.
Apoquel is usually preferred during flare-ups of allergies. It's administered orally, via a once or twice-daily dosing. This is helpful for owners who have dogs that are difficult to bring to vets or uncomfortable with injections. As Apoquel has a short period of efficacy, it's passed out of your pet's body very rapidly. This way, owners can quickly determine if the treatment is helpful and stop it easily if needed. On the other hand, Cytopoint is injected into the skin