If your pet exhibits itchy skin or a sensitive stomach, they could have a food allergy. Food allergies cause your cat’s immune system to overreact when certain ingredients in their food are mistaken for something harmful.
Diarrhea and vomiting can also occur as side effects. It’s important to seek medical advice if you experience these symptoms so that the cause can be identified and managed accordingly.
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Chicken
Chicken is one of the most prevalent cat food allergies, affecting cats of all breeds. This allergy can be caused by either eating poultry products or coming into contact with them through skin contact.
When a cat develops a chicken allergy, their immune system mistakenly attacks the protein in food as though it were an invader. This can result in symptoms such as itching, hives and diarrhea.
Once an allergic reaction has been identified, your veterinarian may suggest a hydrolyzed diet which breaks proteins into microscopic pieces so they won’t trigger an allergic response. Or they may suggest trying out a novel ingredient diet consisting of proteins and carbohydrates your cat has never eaten before.
Ultimately, the aim is to eliminate chicken allergens while still providing your cat with essential nutrients. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options for chicken-free cat foods!
Fish
Fish are omnivores, meaning they consume both plants and meat. This gives them access to a wider selection of foods that provide their bodies with essential nutrients in the right balance.
They possess swim bladders to help them remain afloat when submerged, as well as fins for movement.
When someone with a fish allergy consumes food that contains traces of fish, their immune system responds by releasing histamine. The reaction can range in intensity from mild to severe.
Symptoms of acne range from person to person, but usually include itching, redness and inflammation on the skin. They may also cause itching in ears or belly areas as well as recurrent skin or ear infections.
Eggs
The egg is the female reproductive body of many animals such as birds, reptiles and amphibians. It consists of an ovum (gamete) enclosed within a pericarp, which in turn surrounds it with nutrient material and protective covering.
The ovum, with half as many chromosomes as other cells in a cell, can fuse with the nucleus of a male gamete to form a new organism.
Eggs possess several mechanisms to prevent them from becoming contaminated with microbiological matter. These include the presence of lysozyme and other enzymes in the white, as well as a high pH in the albumen which acts as an inhibitor for bacteria growth.
Cats may develop food allergies to a variety of proteins and ingredients, including those from animal, plant or non-protein sources. Common allergens for cats include beef, chicken, fish and dairy products.
Milk
Cats suffering from food allergies often exhibit itching, scratching and gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting or diarrhea. Although a cure cannot be guaranteed, changing up their diet may help manage symptoms.
Milk is an essential source of calcium and protein for cats. With 87 percent water content, it also provides fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K as well as water soluble B12.
Milk comes in many different varieties, such as fluid milk, whole milk, reduced-fat and nonfat. Which type of milk you select for your cat depends on their dietary needs and preferences.
Soy
Soybeans are an Asian plant often used as a vegetarian source of nutrition. Not only do they contain protein and fiber, but also isoflavones which may have health benefits.
Soy is often added to commercial pet foods to increase protein levels. Unfortunately, this protein can trigger an allergic reaction in cats, leading to itchy skin and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Veterinarian nutritionists can recommend hypoallergenic diets that eliminate the most common allergens from your cat’s food supply. These diets typically require several weeks to complete.
Once the culprit ingredient is identified, it must be permanently eliminated from your cat’s diet to prevent recurring symptoms. This usually involves gradually transitioning them onto a new, hypoallergenic ingredient in small amounts. Throughout this time period, make sure you monitor your cat’s condition closely so symptoms do not return.
