Can someone explain these food trials with my cat?

Appreciate the question—let's unpack this! Food trials can definitely be a bit confusing, but they're important in identifying food allergies or intolerances in cats. Essentially, a food trial involves gradually introducing a special diet that's free from common allergens your kitty might be reacting to. These diets often include novel proteins, which are proteins your cat hasn’t eaten before, or hydrolyzed proteins that are broken down to be less likely to cause an allergic reaction.



The goal is to feed this new diet exclusively for about 8-12 weeks, and during this time it’s crucial not to offer any other types of food or treats. This helps ensure that any changes in your cat’s symptoms are due to the diet trial and not something else.



At home, you should monitor your cat's skin and coat for signs of improvement, like less itching or redness. Also, keep an eye on your kitty’s digestive health—look for more consistent stools or less vomiting.



However, if you notice symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe vomiting or diarrhea, or sudden behavioral changes, these could indicate a more serious issue, and you should seek veterinary care immediately.



If you have more questions or want guidance on starting a food trial, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets through Dial A Vet. We're here to help every step of the way!