Food Allergies in Dogs and Cats
Understanding What’s Making Your Pets Itch and How to Help Them
Does your pet seem to scratch more than usual or have an upset tummy after eating? It could be food allergies. Just like people, dogs and cats can have allergies to certain foods, making them feel uncomfortable. At Greenway Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you understand and manage these issues to keep your pets happy and healthy.
"Food allergies can cause problems for many pets, and it’s important for owners to recognize the signs early," according to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
What Are Food Allergies?
A food allergy happens when a pet’s immune system overreacts to certain ingredients in their food, like proteins or grains. Common culprits include chicken, beef, soy, wheat, and even dairy. While not all reactions are the same, it’s important to know the symptoms so you can help your pet feel better.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Food Allergy
Is your pet constantly itchy? Does their skin look red or irritated? These could be signs of a food allergy. Other common symptoms include:
- Frequent ear infections or scratching at the ears
- Vomiting or diarrhea after eating
- Chewing on paws or other parts of their body
- Hair loss from scratching or biting
If your dog or cat shows any of these signs, it’s time to visit the vet for a proper diagnosis. Learn more about our services here.
Testing and Treating Food Allergies
At Greenway Animal Hospital, we work with you to figure out what’s causing your pet’s discomfort. Food trials are a common way to test for allergies. During a food trial, your pet will eat a special diet that eliminates common allergens for 8-12 weeks. If their symptoms improve, we slowly reintroduce other foods to pinpoint the exact allergy.
Once we identify the problem, we can recommend the best treatment plan, which may include a prescription diet or avoiding certain ingredients. We know this process can seem tricky, but our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. Learn more about us here.
Managing Food Allergies Long-Term
Managing your pet’s food allergies means making some adjustments to their diet. But don’t worry—there are plenty of healthy and tasty alternatives that will keep your pet both satisfied and safe! With our help, your pet can live a happy, allergy-free life.
Remember: Every pet is unique. What works for one may not work for another. That’s why it’s essential to work closely with your vet to monitor your pet’s health and adjust their diet as needed.
Take Action to Help Your Pet Feel Better
At Greenway Animal Hospital, we understand how tough it can be to watch your pet struggle with allergies. We’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today to get expert advice on how to manage food allergies in dogs and cats and help your pet feel their best!
Visit Greenway Animal Hospital to schedule a call with our team and get an appointment. Your pet deserves the best health check-ups and care—and we’re here to provide it!
