Chemically-induced delayed hypersensitivity in the cat.

A technique to evaluate the cell mediated immune response in cats by the induction of delayed-type hypersensitivity to the strong contact sensitizer, 1-chloro, 2-4 dinitrobenzene is described. Following topical sensitization with this agent, challenge was done on the cats ear. Ear thickness measurements, the kinetics of the response and histopathologic examination of the tissue were used to assess this delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. Based on the results it is shown that allergic contact dermatitis can be experimentally induced in the cat.