Alternative Proteins for Cats with Sensitivities to Beef or Fish

Across the industry, cat foods often feature the same one or two proteins. Although tasty and widely accepted by most, this can sometimes exasperate food intolerances for sensitive cats. Food sensitivities commonly occur after consistent exposure to an ingredient, and due to their popularity, it is no surprise that the most commonly documented potential allergens in cats are, beef and fish.¹ It is important to note, however, that not all cats will develop sensitivities, and many can consume the same food for countless years without a problem.

Based on a compilation of studies totaling 78 cats and the identified ingredient triggering an allergic response. Adapted from Mueller, Olivry & Prélaid, 2016.¹

Finding a recipe that does not contain any of these ingredients may be challenging as they are often a primary protein source, but rest assured there are options for your sensitive cat.

What is protein?

In many cases, a cat experiencing an adverse food response is reacting to a protein in their diet.² But what is protein, and is it necessary for our pets?

Protein is one of three macronutrients, along with fat and carbohydrates, which make up all foods. Proteins are made of amino acids, which are the building blocks for the growth and maintenance of almost all tissues in the body. When a cat eats protein, amino acids are released, allowing them to be absorbed and incorporated into their own proteins for things like muscle growth and recovery. Muscle growth and tissue maintenance are known as ‘protein-only’ functions as no other nutrient can do these tasks in the body.

Protein is known to be extremely palatable for cats, and different protein/flavor choices can be important when it comes to picky eaters.

Theresa LantzCompanion Animal Nutritionist

If your cat has a known food sensitivity, especially to a commonly used protein in pet foods, it is important to find a recipe without that ingredient to help avoid an adverse food reaction.

Common Food Sensitivity Symptoms

The most commonly documented signs of a food intolerance in cats are³:

• Itchy skin & paws regardless of season (This can be particularly bad in the groin, armpits, and belly and result in hair loss and lesions)

• Chronic ear infections

• Digestive upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and chronic poor stool quality

If you notice these symptoms in your cat, it could be a food intolerance, but it is important to contact your veterinarian to rule out other potential health concerns.

Choosing a food for a cat with food intolerances can be difficult, especially because many foods contain multiple protein sources. The first step is reviewing a full diet history and determining when the symptoms began appearing. This way, you can review the ingredients of that food and choose a new recipe which avoids those ingredients.

In some cases, your veterinarian may suggest an elimination trial, which is the “gold standard” for diagnosing an adverse food reaction.

Theresa LantzCompanion Animal Nutritionist

An elimination trial, in part, consists of feeding a diet containing a novel protein source, one that the cat has not eaten before, for at least 6-8 weeks.⁴ At the end of the trial, it is suggested to ‘challenge’ the pet with the presumed allergen, to confirm this diagnosis.

More information on identifying a food intolerance can be found on our blog, food allergies and intolerances in cats.

Novel protein options

A limited ingredient diet (LID) can also be an option for cats with food intolerances. Our Go! Solutions Sensitivities recipes feature single-source primary animal proteins from novel sources, in addition to novel carbohydrate ingredients which a pet is less likely to have consumed before. These LID recipes may be a great option for those pets who experience adverse food reactions.

Black Solider Fly Larvae

BSFL is rich in essential amino acids, B vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and chitin, a unique prebiotic fiber.

Salmon

Salmon is rich in essential omega 3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA.

Lamb

Lamb is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and essential fats.

Duck

Duck is rich in essential omega 6 fatty acids, particularly linoleic acids along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Turkey

Turkey is rich in niacin, vitamin B6, and essential minerals, particularly selenium.

Venison

A lean protein, rich in iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and choline.

In Conclusion

It may take some trial and error to find the right fit, but Go! Solutions Sensitivities line up has many alternative protein options for sensitive cats.

Recommended Solution

Limited ingredient recipes for your feline friend

Our Go! Solutions Sensitivities recipes are specially formulated by experts to help cats suffering from food sensitivities.

Explore our recipes

Not sure where to start? Contact our animal health specialists for some customized advice at 1-866-864-6112 or customercare@go-solutions.com.