The Best Cat Food for Cats With Allergies [2024]

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on finding the best cat food for cats with allergies. As cat owners, we understand the importance of providing optimal nutrition for our feline companions, especially if they have allergies or sensitivities. 

In this article, we'll explore common cat food allergies, how to identify them, and the best cat food options tailored for cats with allergies. If you're looking for high-quality, allergy-friendly cat food options, you're in the right place! 

Common Cat Food Allergies

These are some of the more common ingredients in cat food that can trigger allergies:

• Chicken
• Beef
• Dairy
• Eggs

How do I know if my cat has allergies? 

Cats may exhibit various symptoms of food allergies, including gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation, itching, and vomiting. 

 

Unfortunately, these symptoms are similar to those for the more serious condition, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you notice any of these signs in your cat, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

 

Why Cats Have Food Allergies

Understanding why cats develop food allergies is essential for pet owners to make informed choices about their cat's diet. Several factors contribute to the development of food allergies in cats, including genetics, the source of meat in their diet, age, and overexposure to certain ingredients.

 

Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in why cats develop allergies. Just like humans, cats can inherit a predisposition to allergies from their parents. Certain genetic factors can make some cats more susceptible to developing allergic reactions to specific substances in their environment or diet.

 

Within a cat's genetic makeup, there may be variations in immune system function and sensitivity thresholds. Cats with a genetic predisposition to allergies may have immune systems that react excessively to harmless substances, leading to allergic reactions. These reactions can manifest as skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, respiratory issues, or other symptoms.

 

Additionally, specific breeds of cats may have a higher predisposition to certain types of allergies. 

 

Meat Source

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet rich in animal protein to meet their nutritional needs. However, not all sources of meat are created equal, and certain proteins may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive cats.

 

Common sources of meat in cat food include chicken, beef, fish, turkey, and lamb, among others. While these proteins are widely used and tolerated by many cats, some felines may develop allergies or sensitivities to specific types of meat.

 

One factor contributing to meat-related allergies in cats is the frequency of exposure. Cats that are consistently fed a diet containing the same protein source, such as chicken or beef, may develop sensitivities over time due to overexposure. 

 

In contrast, introducing a diverse range of protein sources into a cat's diet can help minimize the risk of developing allergies by reducing the likelihood of overexposure to any one particular protein.

 

Age

Age can affect allergies in cats in several ways:

• Immune System Development: Kittens may be more prone to developing allergies due to their developing immune systems.
• Kittenhood Sensitivities: Early exposure to allergens during kittenhood may lead to the development of allergies as adults
• Outgrowing Allergies: Some cats may outgrow allergies as they mature.
• Late-Onset Allergies: Cats may develop allergies later in life due to changes in their environment, diet, or immune function.
• Chronic Health Conditions: As cats age, they may be more prone to developing chronic health conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or skin disorders, which can be exacerbated by allergies. These conditions may manifest differently in older cats compared to younger ones.

 

Understanding these age-related factors can help manage allergies in cats effectively throughout their lives.

 

Over Exposure 

Cats can develop allergies due to overexposure to certain ingredients in their diet. Feeding the same cat food recipe repeatedly without introducing variety can increase the risk of sensitivities or allergic reactions. Introducing novel proteins and ingredients can help prevent overexposure and reduce the risk of food allergies in cats.

 

The Best Cat Food For Cats With Allergies 

Now that we’ve covered common allergies and why cats have them, let’s explore the food options that help alleviate cat food allergy symptoms and even help prevent your cat from developing food allergies.

1. Limited Ingredient Diet Duck Pâté for Cats

KOHA's Limited Ingredient Diet Duck Pâté for Cats is an optimal choice for felines with extreme food sensitivities, sensitive stomachs, and digestive issues. Featuring only one meat per recipe, this pâté supports cats' well-being by avoiding unnecessary junky fillers such as potatoes, soy, corn, or carrageenan. 

 

KOHA Limited Ingredient Diet Duck Pâté for Cats offers a complete and balanced protein-rich meal or used as a tasty topper. Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles For Maintenance, it provides peace of mind for cat owners seeking high-quality nutrition for their pets.

Benefits: 

• Ideal for extreme food sensitivities, sensitive stomachs, and digestive issues
• Contains only one meat per recipe, making it suitable for cats with sensitivities
• High protein content supports feline health and vitality
• Easy-to-digest formula, promoting overall digestive comfort
• Enriched with pumpkin for healthy digestion and New Zealand Green Mussel to support joint health
• Includes cranberries for urinary tract health

 

Give your cat the gift of a happy tummy with KOHA Limited Ingredient Diet Duck Pâté. 

 

2. Pure Shreds Shredded Duck Entrée for Cats

Pure Shreds Shredded Duck Entrée for Cats offers a delectable shredded recipe in a savory broth, irresistible even to the pickiest of felines. As a single-protein recipe, with no junky fillers, it’s ideal for cats with food allergies or sensitivities. While cats love the tasty blend and shredded texture, it’s a low-fat option that helps with weight control.

Benefits: 

• The single meat recipe entices picky eaters
• Contains 96% shredded duck, ensuring a protein-rich diet for weight control and overall feline health
• With its shredded texture, it’s easy on the stomach, suitable for cats with digestive sensitivities
• The recipe is free from fillers like potatoes, corn, soy, or carrageenan, promoting digestive comfort
• Enriched with New Zealand Green Mussel to support joint health
• Includes pumpkin, carrots, and spinach for healthy digestion and cranberries for urinary tract health, providing a complete and balanced meal for cats

 

Entice your cat with Pure Shreds Shredded Duck Entrée today.

3. Limited Ingredient Diet Rabbit Au Jus for Cats

 

 

KOHA's Limited Ingredient Diet Rabbit Au Jus for Cats is a premium wet cat food specially formulated to address extreme food sensitivities, sensitive stomachs, and digestive issues. Crafted with rabbit as the sole protein source, this recipe is ideal for cats with allergies or sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken or beef. 

 

Enriched with pumpkin for healthy digestion and cranberries for urinary tract health, this cat food provides a complete and balanced meal that cats love.

Benefits: 

• Contains 96% rabbit exclusive of water, ensuring a high-quality protein source for feline health
• Designed to be easy on the stomach, making it suitable for cats with sensitive digestive systems.
• No fillers or preservatives and free from common allergens like potatoes, wheat, corn, soy, or carrageenan, ensuring optimal digestive comfort.
• Includes pumpkin to aid in nutrient absorption and digestive comfort
• The added cranberries support urinary tract health

 

Help your cat live its best nine lives with KOHA's Limited Ingredient Diet Rabbit Au Jus for Cats.

 

4. Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Food Sensitivities

Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Dry Cat Food is a specialized formula designed to address cats' food sensitivities, particularly those leading to itchy skin conditions. It contains limited ingredients with a single intact animal protein source, venison, making it suitable for cats with sensitivities.

Benefits: 

• Improved digestion and stool quality
• Enhancement in skin and coat condition
• Maintenance of a healthy skin barrier
• Support for a robust immune system
• Excludes soy protein, a common allergen for cats
• Contains high levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids

 

5. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe Natural Cat Food

 

Instinct Cat Food Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe Natural Cat Food offers a simple ingredient list tailored for pets with food sensitivities, featuring one animal protein and one vegetable. Excluding common allergens like dairy, eggs, and various meats, this formula is suitable for cats with sensitivities.

Benefits: 

Simplified ingredient list

Farm-raised rabbit is the primary protein source

Free from common allergens like dairy, and various meats

Contains natural Omegas and antioxidants for skin, coat, and immune health

Raw coating on every kibble piece

 

6. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin

The Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food formulation promotes optimal digestive health and nourishes skin while enhancing coat luster. This dry cat food is designed to address digestive care, food sensitivities, and skin care needs in adult cats. 

 

Benefits: 

Prebiotic fiber (FOS) 

Assists in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome

High digestibility 

Eases stool elimination

Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids promote skin nourishment and a healthy coat

 

More Information About Cat Food For Cats With Allergies

Navigating cat food options for cats with allergies can be challenging. Understanding the best choices for your furry friend's health is crucial. Here, we delve into the essential considerations when selecting cat food tailored for allergic cats. 

 

What food is best for a cat with allergies?

When choosing cat food for allergic cats, opt for limited ingredient diets with novel protein sources like rabbit, duck, or venison. These formulations minimize the risk of triggering allergic reactions in cats with sensitivities to common proteins like chicken or beef.

 

What ingredients in cat food are cats most allergic to?

Cats are commonly allergic to ingredients such as dairy, eggs, chicken, and beef. These allergens can lead to gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation, itching, and other allergic reactions in sensitive cats.

 

Wet food vs dry food for cats with allergies 

Wet cat food and dry cat food are two primary types of commercially available cat food formulations, each offering distinct characteristics and benefits:

Wet Cat Food:

Wet cat food, also known as canned cat food, is typically packaged in cans or pouches and contains a higher moisture content compared to dry cat food. It is made by combining meat, poultry, fish, or other protein sources with water, broth, or gravy, along with additional ingredients such as vegetables, grains, and vitamins and minerals. 

 

Wet cat food often has a soft, moist texture that many cats find palatable. It provides hydration and can be particularly beneficial for cats with urinary tract issues or those who struggle to drink enough water. 

 

Additionally, wet cat food is less processed and may have fewer additives compared to dry cat food.

 

Check out KOHA’s moisture-rich wet cat foods today!

Dry Cat Food:

Dry cat food, also referred to as kibble, is formulated by mixing various ingredients such as meat meals, grains, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals, and then extruding the mixture into bite-sized pieces. 

 

Dry cat food is convenient to store, measure, and serve, making it a popular choice for pet owners. It also tends to be more cost-effective than wet cat food and can be left out for longer periods without spoiling.

 

While each has its pros and cons, for cats with allergies, wet cat food tends to have a higher moisture content and fewer additives. It's easier to digest and can provide relief for cats with gastrointestinal sensitivities or skin issues. 

 

What can I feed my cat for itchy skin?

For cats with itchy skin, opt for hypoallergenic recipes containing novel protein sources and limited ingredients. Look for formulations enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which help soothe inflammation and promote healthy skin and coat.

 

Is grain-free cat food better for cats with allergies?

While grain-free cat food may benefit some allergic cats by eliminating potential grain-related sensitivities, it's essential to focus on the overall formulation and quality of ingredients. Look for grain-free options with high-quality protein sources, limited ingredients, and balanced nutrition to support your cat's health.

 

Choose the Best Cat Food For Cat Allergies 

For cats with allergies, finding the right food is crucial for their health and well-being. KOHA offers a range of limited ingredient diet cat foods crafted specifically for cats with sensitivities. With high-quality protein sources, minimal fillers, and essential nutrients, KOHA cat foods provide optimal nutrition while minimizing the risk of triggering allergic reactions. 

 

Give your cat the gift of a happy tummy and a vibrant life with KOHA cat food. 

 

Shop now to find the perfect option for your furry friend!