寵物食物過敏與不耐症
您的寵物全年都癢嗎？食物過敏可能是原因。了解如何識別和管理飲食敏感。
Food allergies in pets cause itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive upset. Unlike seasonal allergies, food allergies cause symptoms year-round. The most common triggers are proteins: beef, chicken, dairy, and wheat. Diagnosis requires a strict elimination diet trial. RVC can guide you through the process. Call +853 6677 6611.
- Food allergies cause itchy skin, ear infections, and sometimes GI signs
- Beef, dairy, chicken, and wheat are the most common allergens
- Diagnosis requires an 8-12 week elimination diet trial
- Blood and skin tests for food allergy are unreliable in pets
- Hydrolyzed or novel protein diets are used for the trial
- Food intolerance (digestive upset) is different from true allergy (immune-mediated)
Signs of Food Allergy
The hallmark of food allergy is non-seasonal itching — your pet is itchy all year, not just in spring or fall. Common signs include: constant scratching, licking paws, ear infections (especially in dogs), red or inflamed skin, hair loss, and hot spots. Some pets also have digestive symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, or frequent bowel movements. Cats may groom excessively, causing hair loss on the belly and sides.
The Elimination Diet Trial
This is the only reliable way to diagnose food allergy. For 8-12 weeks, your pet eats ONLY a prescription hydrolyzed protein diet or a novel protein diet (using proteins they've never eaten before, like kangaroo, rabbit, or venison). NO treats, table food, flavored medications, dental chews, or supplements unless vet-approved. If symptoms improve, the original diet is reintroduced. If symptoms return within 2 weeks, food allergy is confirmed.
Long-Term Management
Once allergens are identified, avoid them permanently. Options include: prescription hydrolyzed diets (proteins are broken down so small that the immune system doesn't react), limited ingredient diets with safe proteins, or home-cooked diets formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. Beware of over-the-counter 'limited ingredient' diets — cross-contamination is common. Prescription diets from your vet are the safest choice.
Food Intolerance vs Allergy
Food intolerance is a digestive issue without immune involvement. Signs: vomiting, diarrhea, gas, and bloating after eating certain foods. Lactose intolerance is common — many adult pets lose the ability to digest dairy. Food intolerance doesn't cause skin itching. Management involves avoiding the problematic ingredient. Unlike allergy, small amounts may be tolerated.
- Year-round itching that doesn't respond to flea treatment
- Chronic ear infections
- Digestive upset that correlates with specific foods
- Hair loss from excessive licking or scratching
- Skin infections that keep recurring
- Considering an elimination diet trial
RVC provides dietary counseling and prescription elimination diets. If you suspect a food allergy, schedule a consultation at +853 6677 6611.
+853 6677 6611