Food allergies in cats: signs, diagnosis & treatment in Dubai

What are food allergies in cats?

Food allergies happen when your cat’s immune defence system overreacts to an ingredient in their diet. Once food allergies start, they don’t go away again. But they can be controlled by avoiding the trigger.

• Proteins such as chicken, fish, beef, or dairy are the most common culprits.
• A cat may react to one or more ingredients.
• Allergies differ from food intolerances: Food intolerances don’t involve the immune system and the symptoms tend to be milder.
• Symptoms can develop suddenly, at any age and without apparent changes in diet.

Symptoms of food allergies in cats

Signs of a food allergy are common to multiple other conditions, making diagnosis challenging.

Skin and ear symptoms

• Persistent itching or overgrooming
• Redness, rashes, or scabs
• Swollen lips or chin
• Ear infections that keep coming back, despite treatment

Digestive symptoms

• Vomiting, soft stools, or diarrhoea
• Frequent hairballs
• Weight loss

Other signs

• Lethargy, sleeping more
• Occasional sneezing or wheezing

Talk to a vet as soon as possible if your cat is scratching constantly or losing weight.

Cats at a higher risk of food allergies

Food allergies can affect any cat, but certain factors increase risk:

• Certain breeds: Siamese cats and crosses seem more prone.
• Younger age: Half of all cases start in cats less than 3 years old.
• Outdoor lifestyle: Cats with freedom to roam outside may scavenge or hunt, increasing access to new foods and parasites.

Diagnosis of food allergies in cats?

Because symptoms overlap with flea allergy, mites, and environmental allergies, your vet will need to rule out other causes.

Elimination diet trial

The most reliable test is an elimination diet:

• A hydrolysed or novel protein food is fed exclusively for 6–8 weeks.
• No treats, chews, or flavoured medicines are allowed during this time.
• Outdoor cats should stay indoors to prevent scavenging.
• If symptoms improve and return when the ‘usual’ food is reintroduced, a food allergy is confirmed.

Veterinary treatment for food allergies in cats

Most cats respond well to dietary changes, but some need short-term medical support.

• Prescription anti-itch medication: including steroids, antihistamines, and ciclosporin
• Antibiotics: where indicated, for infected skin or ears
• Parasite treatment to make sure fleas and mites don’t contribute to symptoms
• Pain relief: if skin sores are causing discomfort

Your vet may advise referral to a dermatologist (a skin specialist) if your cat’s symptoms aren’t improving.

Home care for a cat with food allergies

Long-term management means avoiding the trigger allergens and supporting overall health.

Special diets

• Hydrolysed protein diets: containing proteins broken down into tiny pieces so the immune system doesn’t react to them. Talk to a vet for advice on specialised prescription diets.
• Novel protein diets: such as duck, venison, insect-based options
• Home-cooked diets: strictly under the advice of your vet or specialised veterinary nutritionist

Ear care

• Clean your cat’s ears regularly if they are prone to infections: ideally, every 7–10 days, using a vet-recommended cleaner

Skin support

• Omega-3/6 supplements: to reduce itching and promote healthy skin
• Medicated shampoos or wipes for soothing relief

Digestive care

• Probiotics: available as granules or pastes to soothe the gut, improve stool consistency and promote a healthy gut biome

Protection

• Buster (cone) collars or pet medical suits: help to prevent self-trauma during flare-ups

Tips for preventing food allergies in cats

It’s not possible to prevent food allergies completely. But there are steps to reduce the risks and minimise problems:

• Feed your cat a high-quality, balanced diet, suitable for their age and lifestyle.
• Be consistent with feeding routines and type.
• Learn to recognise the early symptoms of a problem and contact your vet if concerned.

Can a cat’s food allergy affect people or other pets?

No. Food allergies in cats are not contagious and won’t spread to people or other pets.

When to see a vet

Seek urgent help from a vet if your cat develops:

• Severe vomiting or diarrhoea, especially with blood
• Constant scratching, sores, or hair loss
• Ongoing weight loss or lethargy

Schedule a regular veterinary appointment for the following:

• You would like advice about starting a diet trial
• Your cat has mild, but persistent itching or tummy issues
• You need trusted advice on long-term nutrition or supplements

Worried about your cat’s skin symptoms and a possible food allergy? Book a consultation today at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Their experienced veterinary team can provide accurate diagnosis, allergy testing, and tailored diet plans to help manage your cat’s symptoms. From ongoing skin care to long-term nutritional support, Modern Vet Hospital is your trusted partner in Dubai for compassionate and comprehensive allergy management.