Understanding Common Sensitivities in Dogs and Cats: Ingredients in Food and SupplementsUpdated 5 months ago

Many dogs and cats experience sensitivities or allergies to specific ingredients found in pet food and supplements. Recognizing these ingredients is crucial for choosing the right diet and supplements to support their health. Below is a comprehensive guide that includes commonly problematic ingredients and how they may appear on labels.

Common Protein Sensitivities

Proteins are vital for pets but are also the most common source of food allergies. Dogs and cats can develop sensitivities over time to these staples:

• Beef: Labeled as "beef," "beef meal," "meat by-products."
• Chicken: Found as "chicken," "chicken meal," "poultry by-product meal."
• Lamb: May appear as "lamb," "lamb meal."
• Fish: Listed as "salmon," "whitefish," "fish meal," or "fish oil."
• Eggs: Appears as "dried egg product," "egg powder."
• Turkey or Duck: Sometimes seen in "novel protein" diets, labeled as "turkey," "duck," or "duck meal."

Signs of Sensitivity:

• Itching or scratching, especially around the face, ears, or paws.
• Digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.
• Recurrent ear infections.

Grains and Gluten

Grains can sometimes cause sensitivities, although true grain allergies are less common in pets than protein allergies.

• Wheat: Found as "wheat," "wheat gluten," or "wheat flour."
• Corn: Labeled as "corn," "corn meal," or "corn gluten meal."
• Soy: Seen as "soybean meal," "soy protein isolate," or "textured vegetable protein."
• Oats and Barley: Found as "oatmeal," "rolled oats," or "barley flour."

Signs of Sensitivity:

• Skin irritation and redness.
• Digestive upset, including gas and loose stools.

Dairy Products

Cats are more prone to lactose intolerance than dogs, but both species can develop sensitivities to dairy.

• Milk: Found as "milk," "dried skim milk," or "whey protein."
• Cheese or Yogurt Additives: Labeled as "cheese powder" or "yogurt powder."

Signs of Sensitivity:

• Diarrhea or loose stools.
• Bloating or flatulence.

Omega Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are included in many foods and supplements to promote skin, coat, and joint health. However, sensitivities may arise based on the source.

• Fish-Based Omegas: Labeled as "fish oil," "salmon oil," "menhaden fish oil."
• Plant-Based Omegas: Found as "flaxseed," "flaxseed oil," "chia seeds," "canola oil," or "sunflower oil."

Potential Issues:

• Dogs or cats with fish allergies may also react to fish-based Omega oils.
• Some pets may not tolerate plant-based oils, leading to mild gastrointestinal upset.

Additives and Preservatives

Artificial additives can trigger adverse reactions in sensitive pets.

• Artificial Colors and Flavors: Listed as "Red 40," "Blue 2," or "artificial flavoring."
• Chemical Preservatives: Includes "BHA," "BHT," "ethoxyquin," "propyl gallate."
• Sugars and Sweeteners: Found as "sucrose," "fructose," or "corn syrup."

Signs of Sensitivity:

• Hyperactivity or behavior changes.
• Digestive upset or lack of appetite.
• Skin irritation.

Other Common Triggers

• Legumes: Found in "pea protein," "pea starch," "lentils," or "chickpeas." These are often used as fillers in grain-free diets.
• Potatoes: Labeled as "potato starch," "dehydrated potato."
• Beet Pulp: Seen as "dried beet pulp" or "beet fiber."

Signs of Sensitivity:

• Poor coat quality or hair loss.
• Digestive issues like bloating.

Breed-Specific Sensitivities

Certain breeds are predisposed to food sensitivities or allergies. Examples include:

• Dogs: Labrador Retrievers, Bulldogs, and German Shepherds are often sensitive to chicken, grains, or dairy.
• Cats: Some purebred cats, like Siamese, may develop allergies to common proteins such as beef or chicken.

Tips for Managing Food Sensitivities:

1. Consult Your Veterinarian: Always seek professional advice to identify the cause of food sensitivities or allergies.
2. Try Limited-Ingredient Diets: Choose diets that feature novel proteins (e.g., duck, venison, kangaroo) and minimal fillers.
3. Read Labels Carefully: Be vigilant about identifying hidden sources of allergens or additives.
4. Introduce New Foods Gradually: Whether it's a new food or supplement, introduce it slowly to monitor for adverse reactions.