Your dog or cat’s skin is her largest organ and her immune system’s first line of defense. As such, skin and coat health isn’t just about a shiny coat that looks nice — it’s critical for the overall health and well-being of your animal companion. Allergies and nutrient deficiencies can wreak havoc on your fur baby’s skin. Keep your dog or cat happy and healthy by recognizing allergy symptoms, keeping common triggers out of her bowl, and feeding her the right diet.

SIGNS YOUR DOG OR CAT IS SUFFERING FROM ALLERGIES

Frequent scratching, biting, and licking are the most obvious allergy symptoms. If you notice your animal engaging in these behaviors, look for other signs, such as:

• Yeasty smell to the skin and ears
• Red spots and rashes
• Dry, flaky skin
• Shedding and hair loss
• Dull coat
• Ear infections
• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes, including stress and anxiety
• Vomiting or diarrhea

WHY ALLERGIES HAPPEN AND THE FOODS THAT CAUSE THEM

Allergies happen when the immune system identifies something harmless as a dangerous invader and attacks it. The result is inflammation, itchy skin, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

An allergic reaction to food is more likely to happen when your dog or cat’s digestive system is full of toxins from processed foods, especially when his body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to thrive. Some of the most common foods/ingredients that cause skin reactions are:

• Grains
• Potatoes and starches
• Added sugar
• Legumes
• Artificial colors and flavors

ADDRESSING ALLERGIES FROM THE INSIDE OUT

The best way to protect your dog or cat from food allergies is by feeding him a high-meat diet made with high quality ingredients and no common allergy triggers. Look for foods with Omega-3 fatty acids, kelp, and other ingredients that support skin and coat health. ZIWI®’s PeakPrey® recipes are formulated with nutrient-rich foods and without common allergens, so theyʼre ideal for animal parents who are struggling to find appropriate food for their allergic dogs and cats.

ZIWI Peak Mackerel & Lamb Recipe, for example, is made with whole, wild-caught blue mackerel. It has the highest levels of Omega-3 fatty acids of all the company’s recipes, giving your dog or cat that extra boost to help her back to optimal skin and coat health.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Animal Wellness

Animal Wellness is North America\’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.