Is Your Pet Itchy, Gassy, or Constantly Scratching? It Could Be a Food Allergy!

As pet owners, we want nothing more than to see our furry friends happy and healthy. However, just like humans, pets can develop food allergies that lead to discomfort, digestive issues, and even chronic health problems. If your pet has been exhibiting symptoms like constant scratching, ear infections, or digestive troubles such as bloating or diarrhea, the culprit might be their food.

Food allergies in pets are becoming more common, and understanding the causes, signs, and treatment options is crucial to ensuring your pet’s well-being. If you're unsure whether your pet is dealing with a food allergy or simply have concerns about their health, this guide will provide helpful insights and practical advice to get your pet on the path to recovery.

What Causes Food Allergies in Pets?

Food allergies occur when a pet’s immune system mistakenly identifies a certain ingredient as harmful, triggering an inflammatory response. Unlike food intolerances, which are more digestive in nature, food allergies activate the immune system, often leading to visible and unpleasant symptoms such as skin irritations or gastrointestinal distress.

The most common ingredients that can trigger allergies in pets include:

🐾 Proteins

Proteins are the leading cause of food allergies in pets. Common allergens include:

• Chicken
• Beef
• Dairy
• Eggs

These proteins are often found in many pet foods, so it's crucial to identify whether your pet is allergic to a specific protein source.

🐾 Grains

While not as frequent, some pets have sensitivities to grains. These can include:

• Wheat
• Corn
• Soy

If your pet experiences reactions to grain-based food, they may benefit from a grain-free diet, which eliminates the typical grain allergens.

🐾 Artificial Additives

In lower-quality pet foods, artificial additives like preservatives, colorings, and fillers can trigger allergic reactions in some pets. These additives are often included to enhance appearance, flavour, or shelf-life but can cause discomfort for sensitive pets.

Signs Your Pet Might Have a Food Allergy

Food allergies in pets often show up in various ways, and it's essential to monitor your pet closely for these common signs:

✅ Itchy Skin & Hot Spots

Itchy skin is one of the most common signs of a food allergy in pets. If your pet is constantly licking, chewing, or scratching—especially in areas like the paws, ears, and belly—this could be a sign of food allergies. Chronic itching and the development of hot spots (inflamed, irritated skin) are indicators that something in their diet is irritating their system.

✅ Ear Infections

Recurring ear infections can also be linked to food allergies. Pets with allergies may have itchy, inflamed ears that become prone to infections. If your pet is shaking their head frequently, scratching at their ears, or has a foul odor emanating from their ears, food allergies could be to blame.

✅ Digestive Upset

If your pet is experiencing digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or excessive gas, it may indicate that their food is not agreeing with their system. A sensitive stomach could be a sign that your pet’s immune system is reacting to an ingredient in their food.

✅ Chronic Paw Licking

Paw licking is a common sign of food allergies, as inflammation and irritation often start in the paws. If your pet is obsessively licking or chewing at their paws, it may be worth considering whether their diet is the cause.

How to Identify and Manage a Food Allergy

The best way to confirm a food allergy is through an elimination diet. This process helps you pinpoint the ingredient responsible for your pet’s symptoms.

1️⃣ Switch to a Limited Ingredient Diet (LID)

When starting an elimination diet, it's important to switch to a Limited Ingredient Diet (LID) that contains a single protein and carbohydrate source. This minimizes the number of ingredients your pet is exposed to, making it easier to identify which one is causing the reaction.

2️⃣ Eliminate Common Allergens

Once you've chosen a LID, eliminate common allergens such as chicken, beef, grains, and artificial additives. Opting for novel proteins like lamb, duck, or fish can be helpful since these are less likely to have been included in your pet’s previous food and are less likely to trigger an allergic response.

3️⃣ Monitor Your Pet’s Response

After making the switch, closely monitor your pet’s health for improvements. It can take 8–12 weeks to see noticeable changes, as the body needs time to recover from the inflammatory response. If symptoms improve, it may confirm a food allergy, and you can gradually reintroduce ingredients to pinpoint the exact allergen.

How Can Canine & Co Help?

At Canine & Co, we believe in ingredient transparency, so you know exactly what’s in your pet's food. We offer a wide selection of high-quality, limited-ingredient, and grain-free options to help your pet thrive, free from allergens. Whether you’re looking for dry kibble, wet food, or treats, we have a range of products formulated to support pets with sensitivities or allergies.

Why Choose Limited Ingredient Diets for Your Pet?

• Fewer ingredients: LIDs typically contain fewer ingredients, making it easier to identify the source of your pet's allergy.
• Hypoallergenic proteins: LID foods often feature novel proteins such as lamb, duck, or salmon, which are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
• Free from common allergens: Many LIDs are formulated without grains, artificial additives, or by-products, which are common triggers of food allergies.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you're unsure which food would be best for your pet, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team at Canine & Co is here to help guide you through the process of selecting the right food for your pet’s unique needs.

Reach out to us for more information on managing your pet's food allergies and discovering the best options for their health and happiness.