Food allergy or food sensitivity in cats is not something out of the ordinary. If you're seeing your feline falling victim to vomiting, diarrhoea and other gastric problems accompanied by persistent itching far too often may be the cat is allergic to certain food. And since there's no definite treatment for food allergy, limited ingredient cat food is the solution for you.
This blog explains everything you need to know about limited ingredient cat food. Read through to know more.
What is Limited Ingredient Food?
As the name suggests, Limited Ingredient Food is the type of food that contains as few ingredients as possible compared to conventional cat foods and yet fulfils the nutritional requirements of your pet.
Limited Ingredient Food – Why should your cat have it?
Limited ingredient cat food has a lesser number of ingredients, meaning such a diet reduces your cat's exposure to a number of potential allergens hence bringing down the chances of food sensitivity to your cat. This type of cat food has more natural ingredients and negligible or no preservatives and/or fillers.
Which cats need Limited Ingredient Food?
Limited-ingredient food is particularly better for cats,
- with health issues that require a specific diet
- having food sensitivities
- obese cats
- picky eaters
- that require maintaining a healthy weight
What all Limited Ingredient Cat Food should contain?
Usually, limited ingredient cat foods contain,
- a single source of protein (novel protein)
- one source of carbohydrate
- veggies
- a fat source
- supplements
Sources of protein in limited-ingredient cat food
More or less, limited ingredient cat food protein sources are obtained from the contents cats do not get to consume often. Some of the protein sources of such foods are,
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Salmon -
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Seafood protein rich in omega fatty acids to improve brain, skin & joint health
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Turkey -
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Low fat protein filled with minerals & vitamins for strong muscles
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Lamb -
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Easy-to-digest protein with iron and a great alternative to beef for cats with food sensitivity
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Rabbit -
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Substitute to traditional proteins to fulfil cat’s nutritional needs
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Carbohydrate sources of limited ingredient cat food
Carbohydrate is a key nutrient for cats with food sensitivities. A few carbohydrate sources of limited ingredient cat foods include,
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Millet -
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Packed with vitamin Bs and minerals including magnesium and phosphorus
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Barley -
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An ideal alternative to carbohydrates for short-term energy boost, easily digestible and improves metabolism
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Brown Rice -
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Light on feline tummies, rich in dietary fibre; soothes the gut and provides short-term energy
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Quinoa -
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Contains minerals, vitamins and good bacteria to improve digestive health
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Vegetables contents of limited ingredient cat food
Limited ingredient cat food's vegetable content can be sourced from,
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Peas -
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Offers lean protein and fibre that aid in providing energy
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Carrots -
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A source of vitamins A and K; improves nerve function, skin and eye health
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Sweet Potatoes -
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Ideal source of fibre & energy; aids digestion; helps regulate blood sugar
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Spinach -
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Contains iron, vitamins A & C, calcium & magnesium
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Chicory root -
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Have pre-biotic properties to aid in digestion and helps in blood sugar regulation
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Now, let’s have a look at some of the vet-recommended limited ingredient cat foods.
Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Wet Cat Food
Composed to help eliminate causes of skin irritation related to food and improve digestion, Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Wet Cat Food is something your sensitive cat requires.
Primary ingredients
- Chicken Liver, Powdered Cellulose, Soybean Oil
Benefits
- Single protein & single carbohydrate source
- Free from allergy-causing additives
- Improves digestion
- Eliminates skin irritation related to food
PRIME Pantry Nibbles SPT Single Protein Kangaroo Treats
Made of 100% real Australian Kangaroo, Single Protein Kangaroo Nibbles from Prime Pantry are the perfect treats you can reward your cats with after those tiring training sessions.
Primary ingredients
- Australian kangaroo meat, pea fibre, tapioca
Benefits
- Single protein treats
- Made of 100% Australian kangaroo
- Works as a reward post-training
- Provides irresistible flavour
- Improves skin and coat health
ADVANCE Sensitive Skin & Digestion Turkey with Rice
Formulated carefully to suit the nutritional requirements of cats with sensitive digestion, Advance Sensitive Skin & Digestion is an ideal limited ingredient cat food.
Primary ingredients
Benefits
- Rich in protein and other essential nutrients
- Improves skin and digestive health
- Suits cats with sensitive stomach
IVORY COAT Chicken in Gravy
Made with real Australian meat, Chicken in Gravy from IVORY COAT is a grain-free wet food, perfect to suit the palates of picky felines.
Primary ingredients
Benefits
- Provides complete and balanced nutrition
- Rich in omega for healthy skin and coat
- Ideal for feeding picky felines
Conclusion
So, this was about limited ingredient cat food. Before you serve these foods to your adorable feline's bowl, it's key you learn about what these foods include; whether they'll be suitable for your pet and if they'll work the way they should to contribute to your feline's health.
If you're not sure whether certain limited ingredient cat food will be good for your feline or not, talk to your veterinarian and let the furball have the best.