Testing for food allergies in pets is not easy. If you believe your dog or cat has an allergy, your vet might determine that it’s a food intolerance rather than a food allergy. An allergic reaction to food starts from your pet’s immune system. Food intolerance or sensitivity could be a reaction to the type of food. Maybe it has too much fat or protein.
You can test food intolerance or food allergy in the same way. You can also resolve the issues similarly by collecting as much information as possible about your pet and its behaviors. When heading to the vet’s office for the first time to discuss possible allergies, be prepared to give your vet the following information: your pet’s symptoms and changes in behavior; diet including its food, treats, and flavored toys; pet medications; and any other possible allergy triggers.
If a pet food intolerance test is the next step, prepare for a long journey. It takes time to determine specific allergies in humans, and the same goes for dogs and cats. It all begins with an elimination diet.