What’s the Difference?

Pet food allergies and sensitivities are two common health issues that can affect dogs and cats. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Allergies are caused by a reaction to a specific protein in the food. When a pet eats a food that they are allergic to, their immune system overreacts and produces antibodies against the protein. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Itchy skin
• Hives
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing

Sensitivities are caused by a non-allergic reaction to a food. When a pet eats a food that they are sensitive to, their digestive system becomes irritated. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain

Symptoms

The symptoms of pet food allergies and sensitivities can be very similar. However, there are some key differences. Allergies typically cause more severe symptoms than sensitivities. Additionally, allergies are more likely to cause respiratory problems, such as sneezing and coughing.

Diagnosis

If you think your pet may have a food allergy or sensitivity, it is important to take them to the vet for diagnosis. The vet will perform a physical exam and ask you about your pet’s symptoms. They may also recommend blood tests or skin tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment for pet food allergies and sensitivities is to avoid the food that is causing the reaction. This can be difficult, as many pet foods contain common allergens, such as chicken, beef, and dairy. However, there are a number of hypoallergenic pet foods available that can help to prevent allergic reactions.

Prevention

There is no surefire way to prevent pet food allergies or sensitivities. However, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk of your pet developing these conditions. These include:

• Feeding your pet a diet that is free of common allergens
• Avoiding giving your pet table scraps
• Introducing new foods to your pet’s diet gradually
• Being aware of the signs and symptoms of pet food allergies and sensitivities

Conclusion

Pet food allergies and sensitivities are two common health issues that can affect dogs and cats. While the symptoms of these conditions can be similar, there are some key differences. Allergies are caused by a reaction to a specific protein in the food, while sensitivities are caused by a non-allergic reaction. The treatment for both allergies and sensitivities is to avoid the food that is causing the reaction.