Tips to Prevent Food Allergy Flare-Ups in Pets

Food allergies in pets work like they do in humans. Sometimes the food you give them may be harmful as it may not work right on them. The reason is that their immune system is different from humans—their body shifts into defense mode leading the allergy symptoms to start. Your pet may have itchy ears or red skin. They could begin to have diarrhea or stomach upset. Cats are also likely to get small with fluid-filled bumps, often around the neck and head.

Here are a few tips to prevent food allergies in pets:

Any pet may have an allergy

The exact number of cats and dogs with a food allergy is unknown. However, West Highland terriers, cocker spaniels, and Labrador retrievers may be the breeds most at risk. In cats, Siamese crosses are more prone to this type of allergy than other breeds. Your pet is not just born with this problem. They may eat the same food for up to 2 years before an allergy starts in the pets and shows symptoms. You must contact your vet, and it is better to download free Pet Rx card to get discounts on medications.

1. Food that causes flare

Animal proteins are the top common cause of food allergies in pets. It includes egg, dairy, beef, and chicken. In fact, despite how much your cat may love tuna, fish is known to cause a food allergy too. Symptoms in a few pets may even come from a plant-based ingredient. However, this instance is rare.

2. Finding the trigger points

A’ diet challenge’ is the best way to find out what is happening with your pet. For 10-12 weeks, you must feed them only exceptional food from your vet. You’ll also need to take away pet toothpaste, flavored toys, and treats. If your pet has a true food allergy, the symptoms will improve and worsen once you return to the old diet.

3. Finding the problem

You may need to do this diet trial once as it will help you figure out which part of your pet’s food is the culprit. However, it may be a challenging task. Most dog and cat foods contain more items than what’s listed on the label.

4. Take extra care with cats

It may be a tricky task to put your cat through a diet trial. Felines are picky eaters and do not like to change foods. If your cat doesn’t eat more than a day or two, it may be at risk of a disease called ‘haptic lipidosis.’

5. Keep an eye on your pet

Once you know about the food setting off your pet’s symptoms, try to avoid it as much as possible. Also, remember that your pet could have an allergy to more than one thing.

6. Support with special diet

Few companies make extraordinary food pts prone to allergy. You can buy these at your vet’s office. It is made with extra care to eliminate the chances of common allergens. Many brands also contain ‘hydrolyzed’ protein. This protein breaks down into tiny pieces your pet’s immune system won’t react to or notice.

Pros and cons of homemade food

You can make your pet’s food from scratch. It is one good way to ensure that what they are eating won’t set off the symptoms. However, it is crucial to do some research. The reason is that not all the recipes provide the proper nutrients your cat or dog needs to stay healthy.

Is gluten-free helpful?

Gluten is a protein in grains like barley, rye, and wheat. Few people are susceptible to it but are not always allergic to it. Also, this is not a common problem in pets. Cats are not known to have issues with gluten.

Conclusion

Even if your pet doesn’t have a food allergy, they may suffer from ‘food intolerance.” The amount of food they eat, its preparation, or its fiber could cause symptoms. Your pet may also have a skin or digestive issue that needs treatment. An allergy to something apart from food like pollen, dust mites, insect bites, fleas, or mold could also be to blame. Your vet may help you figure out why your pet’s ailing and get them to feel better.

If they recommend any medications, always remember to download free Rx prescription discount card. You can get save a good amount through the Pet Rx Cards.