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Best Hypoallergenic Cat Food

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  October 21st, 2021

Hypoallergenic cat food is formulated to meet the needs of cats with food sensitivities and eliminate common allergens from the mix. This way, your pet can get all the nutrients they need without getting skin irritations or gastrointestinal issues in the process.

A well-balanced diet is a starting point for any pet- making sure that your cat gets all the essential nutrients in the right ratio can significantly improve their health and make it less likely for certain issues, such as obesity or UTIs to arise down the road. But sometimes, even when you take great care to choose the best food for your cat, they can become allergic to certain ingredients, which causes a range of health issues. Symptoms such as chronic skin itching and inflammation or gastrointestinal upset can be indicators of food allergies in cats- which means that a food trial will probably be the next course of action.

Hypoallergenic cat food is formulated to exclude common allergy triggers from their formula, such as grains, dairy, or swap common protein sources for exotic protein. However, despite being designed not to cause an allergic reaction, no food is universally hypoallergenic. Allergies in cats can be triggered by different ingredients, so it might take some trial and error before you find the formula that suits your cat. To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve rounded up the 10 best hypoallergenic cat food options out there.

1. Editor’s Choice: Blue Buffalo Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance for Cats

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Formulated particularly for cats that have a food intolerance, this dry food relies on hydrolyzed protein to deliver the nutrients without causing a flare-up. Hydrolyzed protein, in this case, salmon, is protein broken down into small parts, so not only that it won’t cause an allergic reaction, but this type of protein is also more easily digestible. Blue Buffalo Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance for Cats contains no corn, wheat, or soy, as well as no artificial preservatives or flavors, and no chicken or poultry by-products. To boost your pet’s immune system, this dry food is enriched with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins E and C. Nutritionally complete and easy on the tummy, this kibble is a great choice for kitties that experience food intolerance.

2. Runner Up: Solid Gold – Winged Tiger Dry Food for Cats

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When in doubt, opt for a formula that has limited ingredients or a novel protein, as it will usually help you quickly learn what’s triggering your pet’s sensitivities. A good choice for cats that are sensitive to grains or common proteins such as chicken or beef, Solid Gold – Winged Tiger Dry Food for Cats is made with quail as its primary protein source. Grain-free and gluten-free, this dry food for cats is also made with superfoods such as pumpkin that soothes digestive issues, antioxidants, and essential amino acids for an immunity boost and healthier skin and coat, as well as live probiotics to improve gut health. Opting for a protein source new to your cat can be all it takes to eliminate irritation, so it’s worth a try if you’re suspecting chicken or beef to be the culprit.

3. Customer’s Choice: Purina ONE Sensitive Systems Adult Dry Cat Food

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This easily digestible formula is designed for kitties that have problems digesting regular kibble and experience food sensitivities. Made with real turkey as the first ingredient, Purina ONE Sensitive Systems Adult Dry Cat Food has 34% protein content and will meet your cat’s dietary needs and ensure they develop healthy muscles and maintain a strong immune system. The source of healthy carbs and fiber in this formula are rice and peas, and the food is also fortified with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals necessary for your cat’s wellbeing. To boot, the rich fiber content will promote better digestion and help with the expulsion of hairballs, as well.

4. Best Wet: ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food

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Some kitties simply prefer the texture and the taste of canned food, whereas others need to eat primarily wet food because of health issues, such as UTIs or loss of teeth. Luckily, for cats that have to or need to eat wet food but have food sensitivities, there are appropriately adjusted formulas such as ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food which is ethically and sustainably made to meet feline nutritional needs while maintaining a limited ingredient list. This yummy chunky pate is 92% free-range lamb, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels, which makes it protein-packed and rich in moisture. Additionally, it contains no potatoes, grains, fillers, sugars, glycerin, artificial preservatives, gums, or BPA. A clean and tasty formula that will have your pet licking the bowl!

5. Best for Kittens: Halo Natural Dry Kitten Food

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Even the youngest cats can suffer from food sensitivities, whether as an allergic reaction or as the result of the fact that their digestive system is still adapting to anything other than their mom’s milk. Halo Natural Dry Kitten Food boasts a holistic recipe tailored to the needs of kittens with sensitive stomachs: it is made with Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified salmon and whitefish, as well as non-GMO fruits and vegetables. This easily digestible kitten food also contains no grains, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, nor any cheap fillers such as meat meal. Additionally, it is rich in DHA, which is essential for the healthy physical and cognitive development of kittens. Everything your furry baby needs to thrive!

6. Best Grain-Free: Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Cat Food

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Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they do not naturally require grains in their diet. However, for some cats, the situation is a bit different: not only do they not need grains, but grains can actually cause an adverse reaction. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Cat Food boasts a formula free from any grains and with a single source of protein, which is ideal for kitties that have sensitive stomachs. Made with duck meat and green pea, this kibble is packed with protein and essential amino acids, as well as all the minerals and vitamins needed for your pet to stay healthy and happy. In addition to being free from corn, wheat, or soy, this dry food for cats also contains no fillers or potatoes.

7. Best for Skin Allergies: Hill’s Prescription Diet d/d Skin/Food Sensitivities

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Itchy skin that causes chronic scratching, inflamed skin or even lesions on the skin can all be caused by food sensitivities and allergies. Your kitty doesn’t have to suffer through incessant scratching and irritating itching if you switch their diet to a food that doesn’t contain triggering allergens, and one of the more popular choices among pet parents is Hill’s Prescription Diet d/d Skin/Food Sensitivities. Made with a single protein source and limited ingredients, this kibble is optimized for cats with sensitive skin and stomachs. The combination of venison and green peas eliminates the most common allergens from the mix and provides an optimal blend of protein and fiber to nurture your pet’s nutritional needs. To boot, this dry food is enriched with antioxidants to boost the immune system and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to promote healthier skin and coats.

8. Best Freeze-Dried: Feline Natural Grain-Free Freeze Dried Cat Food

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Freeze-dried food is a popular choice for cats with food sensitivities as it is nutritionally dense yet made from healthy, limited ingredients. The trick is finding one made with protein that doesn’t trigger your cat sensitivities! Feline Natural Grain-Free Freeze Dried Cat Food is made from 99% fresh meat, fish, and organs, and the remaining 1% is New Zealand green-lipped mussel, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils. The process of freeze-drying preserves nutrients and flavor and the unusual texture is bound to be a hit even with picky cats. The available options are chicken and lamb, beef and Hoki, and lamb and salmon- choose according to your cat’s sensitivities.

9. Best for Seniors: Forza10 Wet Hypoallergenic Cat Food

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Senior cats have different nutritional needs from active adults or young kittens, and when you pair that with food sensitivities, it can be difficult to find the perfect formula for your elderly cat’s needs. Forza10 Wet Hypoallergenic Cat Food is soft enough that even older cats with teeth issues or no teeth can easily eat it, and it is full of important nutrients that will help boost their immune system. Made with lamb, this wet food is enriched with turmeric, papaya, and pomegranate that provide anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties to the formula and can be very beneficial for older and younger cats alike. This food contains no grains, GMOs, by-products, artificial colors, or flavors.

10. Best Treats: Vital Essentials Vital Cat Freeze-Dried Rabbit Bites

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We all want to pamper our pets- a yummy treat as a reward for good behavior or as an occasional indulgence is a normal occurrence for all cats, but when your cat has food sensitivities, you might be hesitant to give them treats. Even a bite of wrong food could propel them into scratching or cause a vomiting or diarrhea episode. Vital Essentials Vital Cat Freeze-Dried Rabbit Bites is made with a single source of protein- the only ingredients in these treats are freeze-dried rabbit meat, rabbit liver, rabbit kidney, and rabbit heart. No sneaky artificial ingredients, common proteins, or grains lurking in there! With all nutrients preserved and high levels of protein without any common allergens in the mix, these treats make a great choice for all felines that suffer from food allergies.

How Do I Know if My Cat Has a Food Allergy or Intolerance?

Cats can be sensitive to certain ingredients in food, but that doesn’t mean that they are allergic to it. Food allergy triggers an immune reaction but a food sensitivity doesn’t- the issue is that the main symptoms overlap. To be sure what is causing your cat’s symptoms, you should take them to a veterinarian to eliminate any other medical issues that could be causing your cat’s distress and to consult on what your next course of action should be. These are the most common symptoms of reactions to food, whether allergic or not- so if your pet starts experiencing any of these, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Sometimes, symptoms of other health issues can be mistaken for allergies, so it’s crucial to get the right diagnosis.

  • Gastrointestinal issues- vomiting, diarrhea, or gassiness
  • Itchiness and chronic scratching
  • Hair loss
  • Skin inflammation or lesions
  • Recurrent ear infections
  • Respiratory issues such as coughing, sneezing, or wheezing

What Food Is Good For Cats with Allergies?

If your cat has a food sensitivity, there are some common culprits that could be causing or exacerbating their symptoms. The best type of food for cats with allergies would be nutritionally complete, rich in protein and fiber, but with some small tweaks that eliminate known allergens. These include corn and wheat, dairy, soy, preservatives and artificial coloring, eggs, but also common protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Naturally, your cat might be intolerant to just one or more foods, so it’s difficult to say which hypoallergenic formula would work best until you try it. The safest bet is to go for limited ingredient diets, which, as the name suggests, have a limited number of ingredients and narrow down the “suspects” that could be irritating your pet. Foods with novel or exotic proteins are a good choice for cats that are allergic to chicken, beef, or fish, grain-free kibble or wet food helps cats irritated by corn or wheat maintain healthy digestion, and organic and natural cat food is often the go-to choice for kitties sensitive to artificial substances such as colorings, flavors, and preservatives.

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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Are you considering taking a trip to a dream destination in the United States with your best friend by your side? If so, you’re not alone! A growing number of animal lovers are taking steps to include the whole family in their travel plans, with Airbnb reporting that close to 50% of nights booked include pets. But have you ever stopped to consider how much your furry family member is increasing the budget?The team at MarketWatch recently released a guide to pet-friendly Airbnb travel in the US with some startling stats.Data was compiled about the cost of renting 11, 676 Airbnbs and 11,753 pet-friendly Airbnbs located in 46 of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. By comparing the average nightly cost for pet-friendly and pet-free locations, they determined the price premium or the added cost pet parents must pay to include their furry friends.While we’re not suggesting that the cost of accommodations should be the sole deciding factor for your next vacation, this could impact your top choices.According to the guide, the most expensive city is Honolulu, Hawaii, with an average night stay costing $511. This is also the destination where pet parents will face the highest price premium for booking a pet-friendly location at $345.50.If you’re an avid traveler, this likely comes as no surprise. Hawaii is one of the country's more popular destinations for luxury travel. Not only is the cost of living in the state one of the highest, but the state also charges a Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT), further increasing costs.Of the 10 most expensive tourist destinations to book a pet-friendly Airbnb, 7 were in California. In addition to Honolulu, the list includes:Monterey, CA ($509)Sonoma, CA ($488)Napa Valley ($380)Santa Cruz, CA ($339)Palm Springs, CA ($329)Boston, MA ($238)Los Angeles, CA ($226)San Francisco, CA ($226)Yellowstone National Park, WY ($219)Don’t let these costs keep you from planning your next big pet-friendly getaway. Not only did they compile a list of the most expensive destinations, but they also identified the least expensive nightly rates in the US. This list is a great way to travel with your pet without worrying about your budget.They discovered that the least expensive city to book a pet-friendly Airbnb is Oklahoma City, OK, where the average nightly rate is only $110. Other locations that made this list include:St. Louis, MO ($111)Cleveland, OH ($114)Columbus, OH ($117)Houston, TX ($119)Salt Lake City, UT ($119)Detroit, MI ($124)Memphis, TN ($125)Indianapolis, IN ($129)San Antonio, TX ($130)Booking a lower-cost Airbnb is only one of many ways to keep the costs down when traveling with your pet. Pack all your pet’s travel essentials before your trip, including a leash, food/water dishes, grooming supplies, plastic waste bags, and a first aid kit. If you are driving to your destination, you can also pack your pet’s food to avoid shopping for it once you arrive. You can gather these items by shopping local sales rather than paying a premium to get what you need on short notice. Pet Insurance is another great budget-friendly travel tip. This may seem counterproductive, adding the monthly cost of your pet’s policy to your budget. But if disaster strikes, the insurance policy can help to significantly reduce emergency vet bills.Whatever your budget, we encourage all pet parents to get out and explore, making memories with their pets by their side. You won’t regret it!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?

You might enjoy the magic of wintertime, but that doesn’t mean that your pooch shares your enthusiasm for cold weather – or the situation might be the exact opposite, with your four-legged bestie enjoying snowfall and you dreading the icy temperatures. Either way, you might be wondering if your pet needs some extra protection or different routines during winter – after all, some dogs are less suited for cold than others. So, it begs the question how cold is too cold for your dog, and should you even try going outside in these cases? There are several precautions you can take, but sometimes, you should be wary of extreme temperatures. Let’s delve deeper and learn more. How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?The tolerance to cold weather can vary among individual dogs based on factors such as breed, size, coat type, age, and overall health. Generally, most dogs can tolerate cold weather to some extent, but there are certain conditions and temperatures where it becomes unsafe for them to be outside for extended periods. Of course, there will be some telltale signs that it’s just too cold to be outside. Signs that your dog may be too cold include shivering, whining, seeking shelter, lifting paws off the ground, or exhibiting signs of discomfort. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to bring your dog inside for some much-needed warmth.Of course, it’s essential to use your judgment and consider your dog's individual needs – you should always prioritize your dog's well-being in extreme weather conditions, but that will differ from dog to dog and climate to climate. Even so, there are some general guidelines for determining if it’s too cold outside for your pet – here’s what you need to know before taking them outside in really cold weather.Consider their coat length and breed: In winter, your pet’s coat can be a determining factor for outside time. Dogs with thick or double coats, such as  Siberian Huskies or  Alaskan Malamutes, may be more tolerant of cold temperatures than those with short coats, like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds. Some dogs were specially bred for living and working in cold environments, while some breeds were developed for completely opposite conditions. If your pet belongs to the latter group, it might be useful to invest in  a warm coat  designed to keep your dog toasty and warm during cold weather.

Urine Tests Could Now Provide Early Detection of Cancer in Dogs

Cancer doesn’t discriminate – it affects all creatures around the world, including our cherished pets. Learning that your  dog has cancer can be such a devastating thing, but sadly, it is so common nowadays. John Robertson, research professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics at Virginia Tech says in his interview for  WTOP News  that “one in four dogs will be diagnosed with cancer,” and that “by the time they’re middle-aged, 50% of dogs will die of cancer after the age of 10 years.”Professor Robertson is part of a vast research team that has developed an innovative new noninvasive rapid test that utilizes a dog’s urine and allows potential early detection of cancer. “Usually, when a dog gets diagnosed with cancer, it’s usually quite advanced, with visible signs — we’re trying to detect cancer before these physical symptoms appear,” said fellow researcher Ryan Senger, associate professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering. “Cancer is going to change overall metabolism inside the body, and it’s going to change the way the kidneys function, which can be observed in the urine screening process,” Senger added.Through samples of dog urine, the research team discovered that cancerous subjects amongst the observed molecules had a unique “fingerprint” that could be used to indicate the presence of cancer. “We would like to be able to have dogs screened earlier, before cancer develops, throughout their lifetime, perhaps a once-a-year urine specimen,” said Robertson. “That tells us what the molecular fingerprint of the urine is, so if it changes and falls into that realm of fingerprints that define cancer, we’d be able to pay more attention to figure out what’s going on with the dog.”Robertson also added that there are 12 breeds of purebred dogs that have a much higher incidence of cancer. “We’re going to focus on being able to institute early, regular screening that’s going to help pick up earlier when they’re developing cancer, in the hopes that we can get better outcomes.”However, veterinary care is typically subsidized by the owner, Robertson emphasized, which is opposite to medical care, which is often paid for by insurance. “So, we intend to make our tests readily available at a price point that everyone can afford to regularly have their dog examined and screened.”, the professor added. Robertson said that urine screening is currently being researched, to determine whether it could be applied to humans as well, potentially bringing great changes to the discovery of cancer cells. The team’s findings were published in  Frontiers in Veterinary Science and make us very optimistic for the future of preventive veterinary medicine – an inexpensive, accurate way to screen for a potentially fatal illness could be life-changing for so many pets and their owners. Not to mention the implications if such a test could be adapted to be used on humans, as well! 

Newfoundland Dogs Deliver Your Tree at This US Christmas Tree Farm

“It’s a great way to expose people to the joy of Christmas but also teach people about Newfoundland dogs,” explained Lindsay Eshelman when asked about her family farm. “They’re big, and sometimes people are scared of big dogs, and we want to show that they’re gentle giants.”The Esheman family’s love of the breed is evident, with four Newfoundland dogs currently among their ranks. But they didn’t want to stop there. By inviting Newfies from far and wide to come together, they have rightfully earned the title “The Newfoundland Farm.” The event has become a big part of what they do, a tradition they excitedly look forward to year after year.“We are a destination for these dogs,” Eshelman said. “We actually have had people drive all the way from Vermont, Maine, Ohio – those are ten-plus hour-long drives.”Are you interested in joining the festivities next year, but your dog doesn’t quite fit the breed? Don’t worry! Their Facebook states that all dogs are welcome, not just Newfies. If your dog isn’t keen on public spaces, that’s okay too! Dog lovers are welcome to join in with or without a dog. There will be plenty of adorable pups eager to enjoy your attention.So, start planning your trip to Pennsylvania next year to participate in Newfoundland Day and make some unique holiday memories.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Exercise Does My Cat Need?

Cats are often known for their laidback and aloof personalities, lounging around the house like true couch potatoes. But just like us, our kitties need regular exercise to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. That’s where your job as a cat parent comes in! In this article, we will explore the importance of exercise for your cat, including how much exercise they need, the benefits of being active, and fun ways to include more physical activity in your cat’s daily routine. Whether you have an energetic young kitten or a calm senior cat, understanding their exercise needs can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. How Much Playtime Does an Indoor Cat Need? When choosing the perfect pet for your family, you have likely heard about how laid back and easy to care for cats can be. After all, they just lounge around the house all day. Right? The truth is that your cat needs daily activity to stay healthy and in shape. The exact amount of exercise your cat needs will depend on several factors, including their age, breed, lifestyle, and individual health needs. For example, a cat that is obese and needs to lose weight to improve their health may need more physical activity than a cat that is already of a healthy weight. That being said, the general rule of thumb is that a healthy adult cat should be engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of active playtime every day, split into shorter 10 or 15-minute play sessions. If you are unsure about your cat’s specific needs, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to provide insight into how exercise and playtime can improve or help to maintain your cat’s quality of life at this stage and as they continue to age. How Do I Know My Cat is Getting Enough Exercise? There are several behavioral signs that a cat isn’t getting enough exercise that you can watch out for. Cats that don’t engage in regular physical activity often suffer from boredom, depression, or anxiety. While our cats obviously can’t speak to tell us this, we can pay attention to their body language and behavior to catch any signs of trouble. Some key signs to watch out for include: Destructive Behavior: One of the first signs people notice when a cat is bored is that they start to exhibit bad habits and destructive behavior. This could include scratching your furniture, tearing apart the toilet paper, ripping curtains or screens, or stealing items they know they shouldn’t. It’s like a young child. They are bored and looking for ways to keep themselves entertained. Excessive Vocalization: Do you have a naturally vocal cat? If so, they may be trying to tell you that something’s wrong verbally. Some cats, when bored, will cry out for attention. This is a behavior we see in our two every time their morning playtime is even 5 minutes late. Change of Appetite: If they are feeling anxious or highly stressed, some cats will stop eating. Others, like humans, will turn to food during times of boredom. Any unexplained changes to your cat’s diet should be considered a sign of trouble – whether it’s a need for more exercise or something health-related.Over-Grooming: Cats are masters of self-grooming, but if a cat is stressed, anxious, or bored, they may take their grooming too far. This can often lead to the development of bald patches or skin irritation. Aggression or Irritation: Some cats become irritable or upset when experiencing stress and anxiety. This could result in uncharacteristic biting or scratching directed towards you, other family members, or other pets in the home. Loss of Energy or Lethargy: This may come as a surprise as most people will associate not enough exercise with having pent-up energy just begging to come out. However, a cat that isn’t getting enough physical activity can become depressed, which may present as being lazy, uninterested, or more aloof than usual. Another important sign to watch out for is unexplained weight gain. Just as humans will gain weight if they aren’t getting enough exercise, so will your cat. Sure, they likely aren’t concerned with “how they look” each morning – but obesity is a growing problem in the United States and can introduce serious health consequences!

Vet School Aims to Dispel Misinformation About Mysterious Illness

News about a mysterious illness has been making dog parents across the country nervous as they seek out available information. While there have been reported advances made in understanding the cause of the illness, many of the details are still vague, and a lot of “data” being shared by the mainstream media seems to be contradicting. How do you know what to believe?To help clarify the sea of information, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine has published an educational hub on their website with information about the illness, Atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (aCIRDC).This hub is divided into several categories: Prevalence, Clinical Signs, Pathogenesis, Screening, Treatment, Prevention, Travel, and News. The goal is to share reliable and actionable information for pet parents that will help them make smart, knowledge-driven decisions about their pet’s health, especially as we head into a busy time of travel during the holiday season.Reported Cases of IllnessAccording to the hub, there are currently reported cases of “a chronic respiratory disease with characteristics of aCIRDC” in 16 different states, including:CaliforniaColoradoFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireNevadaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne of the most important things to note is the wording used by LSU Vet Med. This list is based on reported respiratory illnesses that have characteristics of the mystery illness, but it does not mean that the disease itself has been confirmed. Many respiratory infections and ailments present with very similar symptoms, including Canine Influenza and Bordatella.How to Prevent Illness in Your Dog This Holiday SeasonWhile there is no guarantee that the above states pose a higher risk of aCIRDC, veterinarians and other professionals recommend that pet parents take precautions to keep their pets safe. This is especially important as many of us plan to travel and visit family for the holidays. The following recommendations (as outlined by LSU Vet Med) will help to prevent your dog(s) from getting sick from any respiratory ailment, not just aCIRDC.Ensure Vaccinations are Up to DateWe currently don’t have enough understanding of aCIRDC for a preventative vaccination, but there are vaccinations for some respiratory illnesses. Check with your veterinarian that your dog is current on all routine vaccinations.Limit Exposure (Where Possible)If possible, avoid or limit bringing your dog to areas that put them at a higher risk of contracting a respiratory illness. This includes dog parks or shelter environments. Have a conversation with boarding and training facilities where dogs socialize to better understand their preventative measures, including cleaning and sanitization efforts. You should also ask about the vaccine requirements for dogs in their care and their plan for handling animals that show signs of being ill.Isolate Dogs with Signs of IllnessIs your dog showing signs that they may be ill? If so, isolation is critical. Don’t bring a potentially sick dog to public spaces, and do your best to keep them safely isolated from any other unaffected dogs in your home.

UK Insurance Giant Names Pets as Culprit in Over 6,000 Claims

Between 2019 and 2023, dogs and cats identified as cause for missing jewelry, broken electronics, and property damage.

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

How Do I Manage My Dog's Separation Anxiety When I'm At Work?

No one likes to be separated from their cherished pet for too long. But going to work is unavoidable for most of us, and, inevitably, our pets have to stay home alone. It might not seem like a big deal to you, knowing you’ll be back after a few hours, but it is definitely a big deal for your dog. In fact, most pet dogs are affected by this separation so much that they can experience anxiety and stress, ranging from mild discomfort to severe panic. Needless to say, this is traumatic for your pet (and can result in destroyed valuables, too) so it’s important to learn how to help them manage anxiety when you’re away. Here are some tips to help you navigate your pet’s separation anxiety while you’re at the office. 6 Ways To Prevent Dog Separation Anxiety When You’re At WorkGoing off to work and leaving their pet behind is a challenge for many pet owners around the world, especially those who live alone. When you're at the office, you need to make sure your pet is safe and taken care of until you come back. But even when you organize everything, your pet might feel stressed out on their own - even when it’s for a few hours, your dog won’t know why you left or even if you are coming back which can be a trigger for a panic attack for some canines. Some, especially  velcro dogs, get so nervous and stressed that they develop a separation anxiety disorder. But even so, there are many ways to help your pet cope when you're at work, regardless of the severity of their anxiety – here are 6 ways to reduce stress for your four-legged bestie.Create a Consistent Routine:Dogs thrive when they have a routine. Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime. This helps them know what to expect and when. You can create their schedule around your work hours, so your pet will not find it odd that you are not there when they know what to expect before and after your shift (e.g. walk and mealtime).Gradual Departures and Arrivals:Don't make a big fuss when leaving or returning home. Keep your arrivals and departures low-key to reduce anxiety. This helps normalize the process. Make it seem like you just popped out for a few minutes. If you help your dog understand it is not a big deal, they might pick up on your relaxed energy and stay calm when you depart.Offer Interactive Toys: 

UK Firefighters Get No Thanks from Rescued Cat

Trapped between brick walls, rescued feline's epic scowl captures readers attention.

What is the Best Dog Harness for Senior Dogs?

Final Thoughts – The Best Harness for Senior Dogs Many veterinarians and experts on the health and care of senior dogs will recommend using a harness. However, not all harnesses are created to meet the needs of every life stage. When selecting a harness for an older dog, there are unique factors to consider. This includes the weight and bulkiness of the harness, how easy it is to put it on/take it off, and the padding inside the harness for their comfort. Pay careful attention to ensure the design or fit doesn’t limit or impact movement. There are many great harness options on the market, including those made for regular wear and specialized lift support harnesses with convenient shoulder straps. If possible, visit your local pet store with your senior dog to check out your options firsthand. This will help you better assess the size needed and whether the design suits your dog’s unique needs. Most importantly, remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. You may find that you are using two different harnesses with two senior dogs in your home. That’s okay! The goal is to find the option that supports all your dog’s needs and helps you give them the best possible quality of life. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Survey Ranks America's Top Dog Breeds by State

There’s no doubt about it - Americans love their dogs! We know that your pooch is the best breed, but have you wondered which are the most favored dog breeds in America? Forbes surveyed 10,000 dog owners across the 50 states to find America’s top dog breed. The survey involved the top 25 most popular dog breeds nationwide, according to the American Kennel Club. So, what is America’s top dog? As it turns out, “no breed in particular” is the country’s favorite at 13%.However, if Americans had to decide, they’d pick the Australian shepherd as a favorite, followed by the German shepherd and the bulldog.The highly intelligent and energetic Australian shepherd was ranked as the top dog breed in 10 states, including Alabama, Arizona, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Montana, Missouri, New York, and Virginia. This breed was also voted the second favorite in nine states. Although Aussies won the popularity vote, the German shepherd was the number one pick in 16 states. That’s more than any other breed!Known for its loyal and courageous nature, the German shepherd is the most common breed to serve as a police K9 but also makes a wonderful family companion. They ranked as the second favorite dog breed in nine states. Interestingly, more men than women picked German shepherds as their favorite breed (9% compared to 6%). America’s 3rd favorite breed, according to Forbes, is the bulldog. The English bulldog is a medium-sized dog breed, best known for its stocky build, large head, and wrinkled face. The bulldog ranked as the top dog in eight states, including Illinois, Connecticut, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Utah. Among all states, Nebraska ranked the bulldog lowest, placing this breed at 24th place, The lovable and friendly Labrador retriever ranked as the nation’s 4th favorite breed. Thanks to their affectionate, friendly, and energetic nature, Labs make great companions to people of all ages and families with children. Labrador retrievers ranked as the most favorite dog breed in 10 states, including Louisiana, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oregon, South Dakota, and West Virginia. Bernese mountain dog is the 5th favorite dog breed in the United States. Large in size and built for hard work, Bernese mountain dogs are easy to train and make affectionate, loyal, and faithful companions. So, it’s no surprise that this doggo ranked as the most favorite breed in nine states. Compared to four other top-ranked breeds, the Bernese mountain dog had the most varying results, with 10 states ranking this breed in the bottom 10.The beagle is the nation’s favorite small breed. Ranked as the 6th favorite breed overall, the beagle was placed in the top 10 favorite breeds in all but seven states. This breed received the lowest ranking in Utah, where it was voted as the state’s 3rd least favorite breed.The golden retriever comes in at 7th place, after being voted as the most favorite dog breed in Michigan and Wisconsin. Medium in size and best known for their gorgeous golden coats, golden retrievers are loving, loyal, and affectionate companions to active people and families with children. Goldens were the 2nd favorite dog breed in four states, including New Hampshire, North Dakota, Connecticut, and Vermont. This breed ranked the lowest in Alabama, where it received 17th place.These are America’s most favorite dog breeds, but the nation also has the least favorite doggo. This title goes to the Havanese, which was the bottom-ranked breed in 33 states.The Havanese is followed by Pembroke Welsh Corgi which was the least favorite dog breed in 17 states. And what about you? What’s your favorite and least favorite dog breed?Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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