Cats are known for their finicky eating habits, but when it comes to food intolerance, it can go beyond just picky eating. Food intolerances in cats can cause a range of symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even weight loss. It is important to recognize the symptoms of food intolerance in cats so that you can take the best course of action for your pet. This article will discuss the symptoms of food intolerance in cats, as well as possible causes and treatments.
What is Food Intolerance?
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Food intolerance is an adverse reaction to certain foods or ingredients, but it is not an allergy. Unlike an allergy, a food intolerance is an inability of the body to properly digest and absorb certain foods. Intolerance can be caused by an enzyme deficiency or an abnormal reaction to a food. Symptoms of food intolerance may range from mild to severe and can include vomiting, diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain and other digestive problems.
Common Causes of Food Intolerance in Cats
The most common causes of food intolerance in cats are certain proteins, grains, and food additives. Cats may also be intolerant to certain types of carbohydrates, fats, and preservatives. Some cats may have an intolerance to certain types of food, while others may have an intolerance to all types of food.
Proteins
Many cats are intolerant to certain proteins. These proteins can come from animal sources, such as beef, chicken, and fish, or from plant sources, such as soy, wheat, and corn. Cats with food allergies or intolerances may react to any type of protein, however, so it is important to determine which proteins are causing the problem.
Grains
Cats may also be intolerant to grains, such as wheat, corn, and rice. Grains can be found in many commercial cat foods and may cause an intolerance if the cat is sensitive to them.
Food Additives
Food additives, such as preservatives, coloring, and flavoring agents, can also cause food intolerance in cats. Some of these additives can be found in commercial pet foods, but they can also be found in treats and other foods.
Carbohydrates
Cats can also be intolerant to certain types of carbohydrates, such as sugar and starches. These carbohydrates can be found in commercial cat foods and treats, as well as in human foods. Cats may also be intolerant to certain types of fats, such as corn oil and canola oil.
Symptoms of Food Intolerance in Cats
The symptoms of food intolerance in cats can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of food intolerance in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, and other digestive problems. Other symptoms may include skin rashes, itching, and swelling.
Vomiting
Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms of food intolerance in cats. Cats may vomit after eating a certain food or ingredient if they are intolerant to it. Vomiting may occur immediately after eating, or it may occur several hours later.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common symptom of food intolerance in cats. Cats may have loose, watery stools that are foul-smelling and may contain mucus or blood. Diarrhea can occur immediately after eating, or it may occur several hours later.
Gas and Abdominal Pain
Cats with food intolerance may experience gas and abdominal pain. The gas can be uncomfortable for the cat and may cause them to be irritable or lethargic. The abdominal pain may be accompanied by bloating and cramping.
Skin Rashes and Itching
Cats may also experience skin rashes and itching due to food intolerance. The rash may be red and itchy, and the itching may be severe.
Swelling
Cats may experience swelling in their face, throat, or other parts of the body due to food intolerance. The swelling may be accompanied by hives or other signs of an allergic reaction.
Diagnosing Food Intolerance in Cats
If your cat is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, it is important to take them to the vet to be evaluated. The vet will be able to diagnose any food intolerances your cat may have and recommend an appropriate diet for them. The vet may also recommend an elimination diet to help identify the foods that are causing the intolerance.
## Common Myths About Food Intolerance in Cats
Myth 1: Food intolerance in cats is caused by the same things as food allergies.
Fact: Food allergies and food intolerances are not the same. Food allergies are caused by an immune response to a protein in the food, while food intolerances are caused by a digestive system reaction to a food or ingredient.
Myth 2: Food intolerance in cats is the same as an upset stomach.
Fact: An upset stomach is a symptom of food intolerance, but it is not the same thing. An upset stomach is caused by a cat’s reaction to an ingredient in their food, such as dairy or wheat. Food intolerance can also cause other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Myth 3: Food intolerance only affects cats that are allergic to certain ingredients.
Fact: Food intolerance can affect cats of any breed or age. It is not limited to cats with food allergies. Any cat can develop a food intolerance if they are exposed to certain ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of food intolerance in cats?
Answer: Symptoms of food intolerance in cats can include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, itching, excessive grooming, and changes in stool consistency or color.
How can I tell if my cat is suffering from food intolerance?
Answer: To determine if your cat is suffering from food intolerance, look for any of the signs mentioned above, such as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, itching, excessive grooming, and changes in stool consistency or color. If you are noticing any of these symptoms, it is best to seek veterinary advice to determine if food intolerance is the cause.
Conclusion
Food intolerance is an adverse reaction to certain foods or ingredients, but is not an allergy. Common causes of food intolerance in cats are proteins, grains, food additives, carbohydrates, and fats. Symptoms of food intolerance may range from mild to severe, including vomiting, diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, and skin rashes. If your cat is exhibiting symptoms, have them evaluated by a vet and consider an elimination diet to identify the foods that may be causing the intolerance.
