My Vet Just Told Me My Pet Has A Food Allergy

No matter how our pets show their affection, be it a wagging tail greeting you at the door or the comforting purrs as they cuddle in your lap, there is no doubt but pets are truly family.

So, when you receive the news that your dog or cat has a food allergy, it can feel somewhat overwhelming. Suddenly, the simple pleasure of giving them their favorite treat becomes a source of concern, let alone figuring out what to feed them in their dinner bowl.

What's in that treat anyhow? and Will it cause an allergic reaction? But with a little knowledge, a little reading, and a little understanding, you will be back to feeling the joy of treating your pup in no time.

In this article we will explore the following:

The emotional rollercoaster of figuring out a food allergy
Common signs of food allergies in both dogs and cats
The common culprits
How a food allergy is actually diagnosed
How to manage an allergic reaction in your pet
Are some breeds more prone to food allergies
Creating a New Treat Routine With Your Pet

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Figuring Out a Food Allergy

Imagine the moment you’re reaching for your pup's favorite treat, only to replay your vet's diagnosis, “Unfortunately, your pet has a food allergy.” The mix of emotions return, we've been there - be it shock, sadness, frustration, and for us it was even guilt. You worry about inadvertently causing discomfort to your pet, and recall some of the symptoms of a food allergy from the past. Then there is a sense of loss over being able to freely give your cat a treat, knowing how much joy it brings to you both. These feelings are entirely normal, and you are not alone. Many pet parents, including us, have and will face similar challenges when navigating the complexities of food allergies in their furry family members.

Common Signs of Food Allergies in both Dogs and Cats

Understanding the common signs of food allergies is the first step toward providing relief for your pet. While symptoms can vary, some common indicators include:

In Dogs:

Itchy Skin: Persistent scratching, licking, or biting, especially around the paws, face, ears, and belly.
Red or Inflamed Skin: Areas may appear reddened or irritated.
Chronic Ear Infections: Frequent infections that don’t respond well to standard treatments.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas.

In Cats:

Excessive Grooming: Cats may over-groom to alleviate itching, leading to bald patches.
Red or Swollen Skin: Particularly around the head, neck, and back.
Chronic Ear Problems: Similar to dogs, recurring ear infections can be a sign.
Digestive Disturbances: Diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite.

If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian to determine whether a food allergy is the culprit.

The Common Culprits

While any ingredient can potentially trigger an allergic reaction, certain ones, according to an article in BMC Veterinary Research, are more commonly associated with food allergies in both cats and dogs:

Wheat and Soy: These grains and legumes can trigger allergies in sensitive animals.
Chicken: Another frequent allergen, especially in dogs.
Beef: A common protein source that many pets are allergic to.
Dairy Products: Lactose intolerance is different from an allergy, but both can cause digestive issues.
Eggs: A protein that can cause allergic reactions in some pets.
Fish: While often considered a hypoallergenic option, some pets are still allergic.

Understanding which ingredients to avoid is crucial in managing your pet’s allergies effectively.

How A Food Allergy is Actually Diagnosed

Typically through consultation with your veterinarian, diagnosing a food allergy involves a systematic approach to rule out other potential causes of your pet’s symptoms, and if necessary to ultimately determine the allergen or allergens. Here’s how veterinarians typically proceed:

Medical History and Physical Examination: Your vet will start by discussing your pet’s symptoms, diet, and any changes in their routine. A thorough physical exam will help identify affected areas, and may identify an alternate diagnosis or underlying condition.
Elimination Diet Trial: This is the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies, and is described in detail on DVM 360. Your pet will be placed on a special diet that contains novel proteins and carbohydrates they haven’t been exposed to before. This diet is strictly maintained for 8-12 weeks to observe any improvement or changes in symptoms.
Reintroduction of Suspected Allergens: After the elimination phase, specific ingredients are gradually reintroduced one at a time. If symptoms reappear upon introducing a particular ingredient, it’s likely the allergen. It is however important to keep in mind that pets may be allergic to more than one ingredient in their previous diet.
Additional Tests: In some cases, skin or blood tests may be conducted to identify specific allergens, though these are less definitive than elimination diets.

Patience is key during this process, as it can take several weeks to accurately identify the offending allergen or allergens.

How to Manage an Allergic Reaction in Your Pet

If you suspect your pet is experiencing an allergic reaction (non-severe, see below) to a specific food, immediate steps can help alleviate their discomfort:

Remove the Allergen: Stop feeding the offending food immediately. Check all treats, chews, and even medications that might contain the suspected allergen.
Provide Relief for Skin Irritation: Your vet may recommend antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation. In severe cases, topical treatments might be necessary.
Support Gastrointestinal Health: Ensure your pet stays hydrated and consider a bland diet until their digestive system settles. Probiotics might also be beneficial.
Monitor for Severe Reactions: Watch for signs of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse. If these occur, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Follow Your Vet’s Advice: Adhering to your vet’s treatment plan is essential for your pet’s recovery and long-term health.

Are Some Breeds More Prone to Food Allergies?

While food allergies can affect any breed, certain breeds may be more predisposed due to genetic factors or breed-specific traits. For example:

Labrador Retrievers: Known for being prone to skin conditions, including allergies.
Golden Retrievers: Similar to Labradors, they often suffer from allergic skin issues.
Boxers: Can be susceptible to food allergies and other immune-related conditions.
Bulldogs: Their unique skin folds can harbor allergens, leading to increased sensitivity.
Siamese Cats: Known to have a higher incidence of food allergies compared to other cat breeds.

However, it’s important to remember that any breed can develop food allergies, and individual variation is significant.

Creating a New Treat Routine With Your Pet

Discovering your pet has a food allergy can feel like a serious restriction in options, however it may also be viewed as a push towards new, potentially healthier, options to introduce them to. Here’s a step-by-step plan that we suggest to help you and your pet find joy in new treats:

Work Closely with Your Veterinarian: Collaborate with your vet to identify the allergens and develop a list of suitable ingredients for you to work within, ensuring your pet's nutritional needs are met.
Explore Novel Proteins: Introduce proteins that your pet hasn’t been exposed to before, such as duck, venison, bison, seal, or even kangaroo. These can be excellent alternatives to common allergens like beef or chicken. They are often leaner proteins, or have other essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that will further improve your pet's health.
Look for Single Ingredient or Limited-Ingredient Options: By limiting the number of ingredients in a new food or treat, you are not only reducing your work in looking for the known allergens, you are also avoiding many of the additives and preservatives that can be found in treats that may negatively affect your pet's health.
Gradual Introduction: When introducing new treats, do so gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions. Start with small amounts and slowly increase the quantity as long as your pet remains symptom-free.
Variety and Enrichment: Offer a variety of safe treats to keep your pet excited about snack time. Interactive treat-dispensing toys can also make giving treats a fun and engaging activity.
Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest research and recommendations on pet nutrition and allergies. Being informed empowers you to make the best choices for your pet’s health and happiness.

Embracing the Journey Together

Adjusting to your pet’s food allergies is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right knowledge and support, you can turn this hurdle into an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding. By recognizing the signs, understanding the common allergens, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can get back to the joy of spoiling your pup or cat with a new variety of tasty, healthy, treats.

At B&T Pets, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From offering a wide range of unique hypoallergenic novel protein treats, we are also keenly focused on providing single ingredient treats that pets love. Having been a pet parent to allergic dogs, we understand the struggle in figuring out the allergy, and the rollercoaster of emotions that can go along with that. We understand the apprehension in trying something new, but have experienced the joy of figuring it out and watching our pups return to their happy, healthy, selves.

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Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s health and dietary needs.