Food allergies are one of the itchiest conditions known to affect cats and dogs. Cats typically exhibit signs of itching, such as scabs, around the neck and face. Dogs typically show other signs like recurrent ear infections, itching of the face and belly, and chewing of the foot or limb. Pets may also experience rashes, bald patches that may be red and oozing, and hair loss. A pet who has been eating a particular food for years with no problems may suddenly start showing signs of a food allergy because it takes time for the allergy to develop.
When making a diagnosis, it's important to rule out sarcoptic mange and inhalant allergies. Some factors that may suggest a food allergy include unsuccessful treatment for sarcoptic mange, itchiness that is not seasonal, and poor response to cortisone-type medications.
When other causes are ruled out, the food allergy may be confirmed by feeding a hypoallergenic diet for a set period time, allowing the pet to recover, then switching back to the original diet for up to two weeks to see if the symptoms recur. It's possible to further determine the specific food allergen by adding a single pure protein source to the hyperallergenic diet after the pet has recovered. If itching begins within two weeks, that protein represents an allergen. You may then return to the hypoallergenic diet, allowing your pet to recover, then try another single pure protein source, and so on. When hypoallergenic diets are unsuccessful, an inhalant allergy may be to blame. |
