Allergies in pets can be triggered by certain proteins present in their food. Proteins often play a major role in food allergies among dogs and cats. Animals can develop allergies to one or more proteins due to an immature immune system or prolonged exposure to specific proteins.
Common protein allergens in pet food include chicken, beef, lamb, pork, fish, and eggs. Additionally, proteins from soy, wheat, and corn can also cause allergies in some animals.
In general, animals that have been on a single protein diet for an extended period are more susceptible to food allergies. Furthermore, animals with a genetic predisposition to allergies are at a higher risk of developing food allergies.
If you suspect that your pet has developed a food allergy, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The vet can conduct tests to determine if the pet has a food allergy and, if necessary, implement an elimination diet to identify the specific allergen.
Once the allergen source has been identified, it is important to exclude that particular protein from your pet's diet. Fortunately, there are several pet food options available that utilize alternative proteins, such as insects, potato, or rice, which can be suitable for animals with food allergies.
Hypoallergenic proteins refer to proteins that have a lower likelihood of causing an allergic reaction in pets. In the case of insect-based pet food, hypoallergenic proteins are derived from insects that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in pets. Examples of insects used as a protein source in pet food, considered hypoallergenic, include black soldier fly larvae, crickets, and mealworms. These insects are deemed hypoallergenic because they are not commonly associated with causing allergic reactions in pets, and they are not closely related to common allergens like beef, chicken, and soy.
(Source: Veterinary Article)