Seeking tips for "challenge" portion of a diet trial for cat with allergies

Hello there! It’s great to see you’re taking active steps to help your cat with a diet trial – it's a bit of a journey but can be very revealing. The challenge phase can sometimes stir up symptoms if your cat is indeed allergic to a particular food.



Allergies in cats can manifest through skin issues like itching, redness, and sores, as well as digestive troubles like vomiting or diarrhea. During the challenge, reintroduce potential allergens slowly, one at a time, usually over a week, to see if any symptoms reappear.



Make sure to keep a diary of everything your cat eats and note any reactions. Observe your cat closely for signs such as increased scratching, redness on the skin, ear infections, or gastrointestinal upset. If these occur, it’s important to halt the new food immediately and go back to the previous diet.



To help soothe mild allergic reactions at home, a cool bath or hypoallergenic wipes can provide temporary relief from itching. However, ensure your cat is comfortable with these routines first.



If the symptoms seem severe or your cat seems distressed, like showing breathing difficulties or extreme discomfort, these are serious signs that require immediate veterinary attention.



If you have more questions or need guidance specific to your cat’s reactions, I’d recommend scheduling a video consult with Dial A Vet. It's always better to have personalized advice tailored to your kitty’s needs!