Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet ClinicGlossary
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Cat has food allergies, Rx food out of stock since January

I'm at my wit's end and really need some advice. My poor cat, Luna, has been diagnosed with food allergies, and we've been managing it with a specific prescription diet that worked wonders for her. But here’s the kicker: the food has been out of stock everywhere since January. I've been trying every pet supply store around and scouring online, but I keep hitting a wall. The vet isn't sure when it will be available again, and in the meantime, I'm terrified of having to switch to something else and risking another flare-up of her symptoms. She's already so itchy and uncomfortable, and it breaks my heart to see her like this. Can anyone suggest alternative solutions or ways to get hold of this special food? I feel so stuck and just want to help my girl feel better.

Answer:

Thank you for reaching out with your concern. Food allergies in cats can indeed be a challenging situation, especially when the prescribed diet is unavailable. Food allergies in cats often manifest as skin problems like itching, redness, or excessive grooming, and sometimes even gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea.



Since the prescribed food isn't available, you might consider a limited ingredient diet. These are foods designed with fewer components, minimizing the chances of allergic reactions. At home, you can try to prepare meals using a simple protein source your cat hasn't had before, such as duck or venison, along with a carbohydrate like sweet potato. This can occasionally help reduce allergy symptoms.



Keep an eye on your cat's skin for signs of inflammation or sores, as well as any changes in behavior or appetite. Consistent vomiting, diarrhea, or a significant increase in scratching might indicate a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.



It's crucial to ensure that your cat remains hydrated and maintains a healthy weight during this period. If you're unsure about which foods to try or you notice worsening symptoms, consider scheduling a video consult with one of our veterinarians at Dial A Vet for personalized advice.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 26, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
just chilling on the couch with Max and munching on some dried mango. Is it cool if he has a nibble too, or is that not a thing? Not sure if this is dumb, but he's giving me those puppy eyes!
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
just got home from the dog park and found my partner sharing their steak with our golden, Max. he swears it's fine, but now Max is eyeing my dinner too. so, can dogs actually have steak, or should i start hiding the t-bones?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I just got my puppy, Toby, last week. I'm a bit confused—can dogs have steak? I've read conflicting things online. I want to make sure I'm doing the right thing for him! Thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My dog Bella just grabbed a steak off the counter while I was cooking. Should I be freaking out? Is steak dangerous for dogs? Do I need to call a vet, or will she be okay? I'm so worried!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support - anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links