Hypoallergenic Pet Food Can Relieve Animal's Symptoms
If a member of your family had a known allergy, chances are you would make sure their contact with that allergic trigger was eliminated. However, many pet owners may not realize the source of their pet's skin rashes or scaly skin is the result of a food allergy and that switching them to a hypoallergenic pet food could significantly improve that family member's quality of life. Just like people, pets can develop allergies to certain foods and in many cases to the ingredients in commercial pet food.
When a pet is showing signs of an allergy, the first thing the owner should do is take them to the vet to make sure it is not a symptom of a more serious problem. Once it has been determined that allergies are the issue, the vet may offer advice about the best hypoallergenic pet food for the animal. Dogs and cats are the most frequent targets of food allergies, but other pets can also develop them over the years.
Not all food allergies will be apparent immediately in a pet's life and over time a pet can develop an allergy to some of the ingredients in their usual pet food. By varying the diet offered, including the use of hypoallergenic pet food, allergies can sometimes be warded off over time. Unfortunately, pets cannot voice their symptoms and the owner will have to be in tune with their animal to determine the exact nature of their discomfort.
Typical Signs Of Food Allergies In Pets
Most of the commercial pet foods are made of processed meats, grains and colorings along with bindings to keep them together. Over time, their immune system may recognize these products as a danger and begin to fight back the only way it knows how. Rashes and skin irritations may indicate a need for hypoallergenic pet food, but again, meeting with the vet will help determine the cause.
Cats will generally be seen scratching around the face and neck with the development of a rash and dogs will often experience facial itching as well as will be seen chewing on their feet and limbs. When these symptoms occur, changing to a hypoallergenic pet food can be a good start in relieving their problems.
Hair loss is another common symptom in both cats and dogs and while switching to hypoallergenic pet food may relieve some of their symptoms, it can also be caused by an intolerance to flea bites. Many pets that show an allergic reaction to fleas will also have similar responses to food allergies and hypoallergenic pet food may be needed to help them for the rest of their lives.
