We are what we eat, and the same goes for our pets. The food they consume can affect their health, so it is important that we feed them the best food we can afford. But sometimes, that relatively expensive food is not the best option for our pets and it can have a negative influence on their health. Luckily, there are foods and supplements that are specifically developed to help with these issues.
Here are the five most common health issues in cats and dogs that are caused by the food they eat.
1. Allergies
Allergies are one of the most common problems in pets, but it can be difficult to figure out what exactly is causing the allergies in your cat or dog. If you suspect that the allergy is being caused by your pet’s food, speak to your vet about an alternative.
Symptoms include:
- Itching and scratching anywhere on the body. This is the most common symptom.
- Itchy paws. Your dog might lick his paws a lot.
- Skin rashes and hot spots.
- Oily and/or scaly skin.
- Red eyes.
- Discharge from eyes, or eye infections.
- Pigmented skin.
- Hair loss.
- Ear infections.
2. Digestive problems
Just like people, some pets’ digestive systems struggle with certain ingredients, and then they suffer with digestive problems like diarrhoea, vomiting, cramps or an upset tummy. Mostly, it is due to certain ingredients that your pet can’t tolerate, but to be certain that there isn’t something else at play, consult your vet.
Typical symptoms include:
- Cramps
- Diarrhoea, soft or very hard stool.
- Excess gas.
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
Would you like to read about the other three issues caused by pet food? Get the April 2022 edition of Animaltalk magazine from retailers now, or order a digital or printed copy from www.coolmags.co.za.
