Nicola Wilson of Johannesburg writes: Can pet food help alleviate constant itching?
Dr Guy Fyvie, senior veterinary affairs manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, replies: Yes, the right food helps manage itching associated with allergies, which can be caused by food, fleas or environmental factors such as pollen or dust. In fact, allergies in pets are far more common than people think.
For dogs: It can be tricky to tell food and environmental allergies apart – allergic dogs are sometimes affected by both. The first step in managing your dog’s allergy should be feeding them a diet that supports their skin health and immune system holistically. Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete is designed to do just that.
Beyond avoiding allergens, nutrition that strengthens the skin barrier can make a world of difference. A diet rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins E and C helps support healthy skin and reduces inflammation.
For dogs with diagnosed food or environmental allergies, Hill’s Prescription Diet Derm Complete, Prescription Diet z/d or Science Plan Sensitive Stomach & Skin can form an important part of a management plan, soothing irritation and supporting skin health from within.
For cats: Cats tend to suffer in silence. Instead of obvious scratching, they often over-groom, especially around the belly, legs or tail, leading to bald spots or irritated skin.
Some might develop scabs or recurring ear problems, while others show subtle digestive changes like vomiting or soft stools.
If you spot hair thinning or red patches, it’s worth having your vet take a closer look. They might recommend a hydrolysed or limited-ingredient diet such as Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d to minimise signs of adverse food reactions and promote a healthy skin barrier.
For cats prone to environmental sensitivities, Hill’s Science Plan Sensitive Stomach & Skin formulated with high-quality protein, prebiotic fibre and essential nutrients supports skin health and digestion.
While allergies can’t always be cured, they can be successfully managed. Diet, regular check-ups with the vet, flea control and medicated shampoos can all help keep symptoms under control.
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Email queries to pets@homemag.co.za
