Melanie's Blog Can cats develop allergies to food? Cats are known for their finicky nature when it comes to food, but did you know that cats can also develop allergies to certain foods?
Food allergies in cats can be caused by a variety of different factors and can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe.
What Causes Food Allergies in Cats?
Food allergies in cats are caused by an immune system overreaction to particular proteins contained in food.
Cats can acquire allergies to both animal proteins and plant proteins, as well as some types of dietary additives. Food allergies can occur at any age, but they are more common in cats after the age of three.
Signs and Symptoms of Food Allergies in Cats
The signs and symptoms of food allergies in cats can vary depending on the type of allergen and the severity of the allergy. Common signs and symptoms of food allergies in cats include:
- Itching and redness of the skin
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive scratching
- Hair loss
- Swelling of the face and/or paws
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
Diagnosing Food Allergies in Cats
If you suspect your cat has a food allergy, you should take them to the vet for a diagnosis. Your veterinarian will most likely undertake a physical examination and quiz you about your cat’s nutrition and lifestyle. They may also suggest allergy testing, such as a skin prick test or a blood test, to establish which foods your cat is allergic to.
Treatment for Food Allergies in Cats
Identifying and eliminating the food allergen from your cat’s diet is the first step in treating food allergies in cats. Your veterinarian may suggest a hypoallergenic diet, which is free of the food allergens to which your cat is allergic.
In some circumstances, your veterinarian may advise you to give your cat allergy medicine to alleviate the symptoms of the allergy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cats develop allergies to food?
Yes, cats can develop allergies to certain proteins found in food. Allergies to food can develop at any age, but they are more common in cats over the age of 3.
What are the signs and symptoms of food allergies in Cats?
Common signs and symptoms of food allergies in cats include itching and redness of the skin, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive scratching, hair loss, swelling of the face and/or paws, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
How do you diagnose food allergies in Cats?
If you suspect your cat has a food allergy, you should take them to the vet for a diagnosis. Your veterinarian will most likely undertake a physical examination and quiz you about your cat’s nutrition and lifestyle.
They may also suggest allergy testing, such as a skin prick test or a blood test, to establish which foods your cat is allergic to.
How do you treat food allergies in Cats?
Identifying and eliminating the food allergen from your cat’s diet is the first step in treating food allergies in cats. Your veterinarian may suggest a hypoallergenic diet, which is free of the food allergens to which your cat is allergic.
In some circumstances, your veterinarian may advise you to give your cat allergy medicine to alleviate the symptoms of the allergy.
Conclusion
Food allergies in cats can be induced by a number of different reasons, resulting in symptoms ranging from mild to severe. If you suspect your cat has a food allergy, you should take them to the vet for a diagnosis.
The first step in treating food allergies in cats is to identify the allergen and eliminate it from your cat’s diet. Your veterinarian may offer a hypoallergenic diet, which is free of the food allergens to which your cat is allergic.
In some circumstances, your veterinarian may advise you to give your cat medicine to alleviate allergic symptoms.
