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You are here: Home / Food Guide / Pet Food Evaluation Basics / Special Circumstances / Pet Food Allergies

Pet Food Allergies

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Known pet food allergies or food sensitivities

Does your pet have a reaction when fed certain foods? The most common reactions to food allergies are itching, dry or flaky skin, repeated warm or infected ears, or loose stools.

Some of these symptoms can also be associated with fleas or environmental allergens. They are among the most difficult to definitively diagnose, but some simple steps can often put you on the path to solving these issues.

The first step is to rule out a flea allergy. If your pet has fleas, use an organic flea shampoo and flea comb to eliminate them. If you’ve got carpet or upholstered furniture, use a borate based powder to threat these surfaces. Keep in mind that for every flea you find on your pet, there are likely dozens elsewhere in the environment and hundreds, if not thousands, of eggs. Simply treating your pet may not be effective.

Once you’ve established that fleas are not the source of the problem, it’s time to begin playing with your food. The history of what you’ve fed will behelpful here as well. Take a look at the ingredients list of your current food. Is the protein source (meat) the same as what you’ve been feeding for awhile?

More times than not, it will be the meat protein source that is the primary source of a sensitivity. Wheat, corn, or soy may also be contributing factors, but it is the meat that makes the most difference.

If you’re happy with the brand of food you’re feeding, try switching to a different formula made with a different meat. If that does not lead to a better result, it’s time to consider other manufacturer’s alternatives.

If your new protein source still causes problems, consider moving to a “clean” or “hypo-allergenic” formula. These foods contain a single protein source, and very limited additional ingredients.We’ll be happy to talk with you about the options for your specific circumstances.

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Food Guide

  • The Pet Food Industry
  • Pet Food Evaluation Basics
    • Pet Food Ingredients
    • Digestibility
    • Special Circumstances
      • Pet Food Allergies
      • Specific Protein Preference
      • Grain Free Pet Foods
      • Weight Loss Diet
      • Senior Formula pet foods
      • Veterinarian Food recommendation
    • Guaranteed Analysis
    • Choosing & Comparing Pet Food
    • Pet Food Math 101
    • Food Comparison Checklist
    • 10 Commandments of Choosing Healthy Pet Food
  • Getting Started with Raw Pet Food
  • Are You On Your Own With a Pet Food Recall?
  • Dog Foods at Smiley Dog
  • Cat Foods at Smiley Dog

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