Cats have a high prevalence of food allergies. If your cat appears to have a food allergy or intolerance, hydrolyzed protein cat food could be the solution. However, with so many different diets and feeds on the market, you may want to learn more about each one to see if it’s good for your cat.
Why is hydrolyzed protein important for cats? Protein is a crucial macronutrient that the body needs for various functions. It is made up of amino acid chains, known as the “building blocks” of protein. These amino acids have vital roles in the body, including muscular growth, tissue healing, and hormone and enzyme production.
Proteins are broken down into amino acids by the body when they are digested, and these amino acids then enter the bloodstream to be used throughout the body. Some animals, however, have difficulty digesting food proteins and have an aberrant immunological response as a result. This can cause several health complications, including skin and digestive challenges.
What is hydrolyzed protein cat food?
Protein that has been hydrolyzed is a cat food made out of proteins that have been broken down into such small pieces that the body doesn’t identify them as a hazard. Proteins are made up of amino acids connected by peptide or amide bonds, and some amino acid chains have many links, whereas others only have two.
Breaking down proteins into smaller peptide units or individual amino acids is known as protein hydrolysis.
This procedure can be carried out with the help of chemicals or enzymes. Chemicals can achieve a higher amount of hydrolysis, but they can also induce the breakdown of particular amino acids. As a result, the nutritious value of the specific item is reduced. Because high temperatures and pressure are not required during hydrolysis, enzymes are better able to preserve vital nutritional components.
List of hydrolyzed protein cat food – Our Reviewed Products
After your veterinarian has authorized or recommended hydrolyzed meals, you must choose which brand to purchase. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular brands. It would help if you weren’t shocked that we don’t advocate hydrolyzed protein cat food based on what you’ve read thus far.
Only your veterinarian can adequately say whether this diet is best for your cat, but we encourage you to look into the alternatives if he suggests it. We propose these recipes if you truly want to feed your cat hydrolyzed protein.
At first look at cat food with hydrolyzed protein:
- Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Cat Food
- Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Feline Dry Cat Food
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Feline Formula Dry
- Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Cat Food
- Royal Canin Feline Ultamino Dry Cat Food
- Diet z/dTM Feline Wet Cat Food
- BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Wet Cat Food
- Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Pate Real Rabbit Recipe Canned Food
- Ziwi Peak Lamb Recipe Canned Food
- Hill’s Prescription Diet Hypo Treats Feline
- Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Feline Treats
1. Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Cat Food Review
Your veterinarian prescribed Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP for a reason, whether an exclusion diet trial indicated that your cat has food sensitivities or requires long-term assistance for her skin and GI difficulties. Adult cats will enjoy this highly appetizing diet. It’s made using hydrolyzed soy proteins, made up of low molecular weight peptides, and can be absorbed in the digestive tract without causing an immunological response.
The skin barrier of your cat is strengthened by adequate levels of B vitamins and amino acids: the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA aid in maintaining healthy skin and hair. In cats prone to digestive problems, such as diarrhea, a unique blend of fibers helps support healthy digestion. You may reliably feed Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP to cats with food sensitivities over time because of strict production standards that help prevent cross-contamination.
Pros
- It has a hydrolyzed soy recipe that prevents your pet’s immune system from reacting to protein.
- Thanks to a blend of prebiotics and fiber, it is delicious and will aid digestion, making it ideal for felines who are prone to diarrhea and other stomach troubles.
- The highest amounts of amino acids and vitamin C in Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Cat Food efficiently maintains a skin barrier in your pet.
- DHA and EPA, omega-3 fatty acids, have been added to help your pet’s coat and skin.
- Royal Canin uses a strict manufacturing method to prevent cross-contamination that makes its food less hypoallergenic.
Cons
- The use of hydrolyzed soy, a plant-based protein rather than an animal-based source, has been criticized by several specialists.
Key information
- Protein: 24.0%
- Fats: 18.0%
- Fiber: 6.3%
- Calories are 3909 kcal ME/kg
- Brewer’s rice is the first ingredient, followed by hydrolyzed soy protein, chicken fat, cellulose powder, natural flavors, and dried plain beet pulp.
2. Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Feline Dry Cat Food Review
You may prefer dry cat food because it is less expensive, more economical, and has additional advantages.
Food sensitivities and intolerances are potentially serious issues that can irritate the skin, coat, and ears and cause stomach distress. A diet formulated for food sensitivities benefits cats who experience adverse food reactions due to a food allergy (usually to a protein in the food) or intolerance. Prescription Diet z/d clinical nutrition was designed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to support a cat’s dietary sensitivities and assist avoid inadequate food responses.
You may prefer dry cat food because it is less expensive, more economical, and has additional advantages. It has a single carbohydrate source, highly hydrolyzed animal protein, Vitamin E, and natural fiber. It contains essential fatty acids and clinically proven antioxidants. The food is formulated without ingredients known to trigger food allergies in cats.
Pros
- It’s a collaborative effort by professionals to treat GI upsets, severe food sensitivities, and food-related coat, ear, and skin irritations.
- One carbohydrate source and a single source of hydrolyzed animal protein are used in the formulation.
- It contains antioxidants and has no soy protein, artificial flavors, colors, or lactose to reduce sensitivity.
- It’s great for bladder health since it contains S+OXSHIELDTM, preventing urine crystals from forming (struvite or calcium oxalate).
- It builds a healthy skin barrier and boosts immunity.
Cons
- Brewer’s rice is the first ingredient, indicating that it is the most plentiful in the diet.
Key information
- Protein: 34.5%
- Fats: 15.2%
- Fiber: 3.2%
- Calories are 3866 kcal/kg
- The first ingredients are brewer’s rice, hydrolyzed chicken liver, rice protein concentrate, powdered cellulose, soybean oil, and coconut oil.
3. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Feline Formula Dry Review
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hypoallergenic Feline Formula is a unique non-prescription hydrolyzed protein cat food that features simple proteins and low-allergen carbs to reduce the incidence of food allergies responses in food-sensitive cats. It has dietary benefits that give adequate nutrition while satisfying the unique demands of your adult cat or growing kitten.
Purina researchers, veterinarians, and nutritionists collaborated to create this diet for cats with food allergies or intolerances and diseases like pancreatitis and inflammatory bowel disease. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Feline Formula contains hydrolyzed protein, which is a protein that has been broken down into minute components to make it less likely for particular cats to have an adverse food reaction. This recipe is easily digested, contains high-quality ingredients, and promotes urinary health.
Pros
- It has a fantastic flavor and is easily digested, which helps with absorption.
- It contains a single carbohydrate source that rarely causes allergies and additional high-quality components.
- The fatty acids included in the (MCTs) Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) Medium Chain Tri
- The St/Ox Defense promotes urinary health by preventing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals.
- Antioxidants have been added.
Cons
- It is slightly expensive
- Some cats dislike its taste.
Key Information
- Protein: 29.5%
- Fats: 9%
- Fiber: 4%
- Calories are 3782 kcal/kg
The first ingredients are:
- Rice starch.
- It hydrolyzed soy protein isolate.
- Partially hydrogenated canola oil preserved with TBHQ.
- It hydrolyzed chicken liver.
4. Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Dry Cat Food Review
Is your cat allergic to certain foods? The formulation of Blue Buffalo HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance helps to reduce hypersensitivities to common proteins. Why? BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance is a natural diet for pets with food intolerance enriched with vitamins and minerals and created by animal nutritionists. Cats should be progressively switched from their old food to BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet with the agreement of their veterinarian. Begin by mixing 25% BLUE with the cat’s old food, then gradually raise the percentage of BLUE over the next 14 days.
Feed Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet HF to your kitty buddy with the finest natural ingredients. Grain-Free Dry Cat Food Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance It’s made for cats who have food sensitivities and helps to reduce the risk of allergic reactions to common proteins. The hydrolyzed salmon in the veterinarian diet is a highly digested protein that your pet will tolerate. This grain-free mix contains naturally obtained omega-three fatty acids to aid in the development and maintenance of healthy skin and lustrous hair in cats. To support your pal’s healthy immune system, it contains vitamins E and C and antioxidant-rich foods like pumpkin and kelp. Furthermore, this complete, natural food provides proper nutrition and a delicious taste that your pet will enjoy.
Pros
- It contains highly digestible salmon hydrolase, produced through enzyme hydrolysis and then processed and dried at low temperatures.
- There are no poultry or chicken by-products in it.
- It’s grain-free, which means it’s devoid of soy, maize, and wheat and artificial preservatives and flavors.
- Fish oil and flaxseed, which have been added, are excellent natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which will help your cat’s skin and coat.
- Finally, the meal contains vitamins E and C, kelp, and pumpkins (high in antioxidants) to help your cat’s immunity.
Cons
- Its second to fourth constituents are all plant-based, with slightly increased carbohydrate content.
Key Information
- Protein: 30%
- Fats: 14%
- Fiber: 4%
- Calories are 3717 kcal/kg
- The first ingredients are Salmon hydrolysate, peas, potatoes, pea starch, canola oil, and pea protein.
5. Royal Canin Feline Ultamino Dry Cat Food Review
Adult cats with food allergies that require a short-term elimination diet or long-term nourishment can benefit from Royal Canin Feline Ultamino, a veterinary-exclusive dry cat chow.
Your cat’s veterinarian may have put him on an exclusion diet to see if he has any food sensitivities. Alternatively, they may believe that your cat’s skin problems require long-term treatment. In any event, Royal Canin Ultamino was recommended by your veterinarian for a reason. This cutting-edge diet results from years of research and development, and it’s designed to provide a nutritional solution for pets with severe food sensitivities. Its incredibly delicious recipe includes a protein source that has been broken down to amino acid levels, allowing it to be absorbed in the digestive tract with less chance of provoking a food intolerance.
The skin barrier of your cat is strengthened by adequate levels of B vitamins and amino acids: the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA aid in the maintenance of healthy skin and hair. In the bladder, the Relative Supersaturation (RSS) approach helps lower the danger of struvite and calcium oxalate crystal and stone development. In cats prone to digestive problems, such as diarrhea, a unique blend of fibers helps maintain healthy digestion. You may reliably feed Royal Canin Ultamino to cats with food allergies over time because of tight production standards that help prevent cross-contamination.
Pros
- It’s pretty tasty and easy to digest.
- Its fiber mixes will help to reduce GI issues by promoting effective digestion.
- Relative supersaturation (RSS) is a technique for preventing bladder stones, calcium oxalate crystals, and struvite development.
- To avoid cross-contamination, Royal Canin has a stringent production technique.
- Has DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat and vitamin B and amino acids to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce irritations and sensitivities.
Cons
- When compared to other items of the same value, it is expensive.
- The minimal protein requirement of 24.5 percent (dry matter basis) is lower than the AAFCO recommendation of at least 26 percent.
Key information
- Protein: 24.5%
- Fats: 15%
- Fiber: 5.7%
- Calories are 3766 kcal/kg
- The first ingredient is dried chicory root, followed by corn starch, hydrolyzed poultry by-products aggregate, coconut oil, vegetable oil, powdered cellulose, and natural flavors.
6. Diet z/dTM Feline Wet Cat Food Review
Diet z/dTM Feline Wet Cat Food is a beautiful choice if your cat has food sensitivities or intolerances, such as GI problems, allergic reactions to specific protein sources, or skin and ear irritation.
Food sensitivities and intolerances are potentially serious issues that can irritate the skin, coat, and ears and cause stomach distress. A diet formulated for food sensitivities benefits cats who experience adverse food reactions due to a food allergy (usually to a protein in the food) or intolerance.
Prescription Diet z/d clinical nutrition was designed by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to support a cat’s dietary sensitivities and assist avoid inadequate food responses.
Diet z/dTM Feline Wet Cat Food is a beautiful choice if your cat has food sensitivities or intolerances, such as GI problems, allergic reactions to specific protein sources, or skin and ear irritation.
It is formulated to aid in the improvement of digestion and stool quality and the elimination of food-related skin irritation. It also supports a healthy immune system and promotes a healthy skin barrier.
S+OXSHIELD: Creates a urinary environment that minimizes the risk of struvite and calcium oxalate crystal formation.
Pros
- Animal protein has been highly hydrolyzed and purified as a carbohydrate source.
- Vitamin E and natural fiber levels are high.
- It is enriched with essential fatty acids.
- Controlled minerals for bladder health No soy protein, lactose, or artificially colored, flavored, or preserved antioxidants are Clinically proven.
- This diet, developed in collaboration with veterinarians and nutritionists, will manage food sensitivities and eliminate skin sensitivities caused by foods.
- It includes highly hydrolyzed proteins, a single carbohydrate source (rice), necessary fatty acids, and antioxidants.
- It will help to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
- The S+OXSHIELDTM technology reduces the risk of urinary stones (calcium oxalates and struvite crystals).
Cons
- Even though it is more expensive and contains more carbohydrates, these pets are devout carnivores.
Key Information
- Protein: 34.3%
- Fats: 17.7%
- Fiber: 1.6%
- Calories are 174 cal/can
- The first ingredient is Hydrolyzed chicken liver, followed by water, corn starch, powdered cellulose, and soybean oil.
7. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance Wet Cat Food Review
Is your cat food-sensitive? BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet HF (High-Fructose Corn Syrup) Wet cat food hydrolyzed for food intolerance is a natural cat food containing vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, to support healthy skin and coat. Because it starts with tasty, hydrolyzed salmon, a highly digested protein, this sensitive stomach cat food helps limit adverse food reactions to standard proteins, making it ideal for food intolerance cats.
If your cats prefer wet food, BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance is an excellent option. When it comes to food allergies and their symptoms, moist cat food has the same advantages and qualities as its dry version.
SENSITIVE STOMACH CAT FOOD: BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet HF Hydrolyzed for Food Intolerance wet cat food is intended to assist manage your cat’s acute stomach conditions.
THIS HEALTHY Veterinarian DIET BEGINS WITH HYDROLYZED SALMON: This nutritious veterinary diet contains actual salmon, which has been hydrolyzed to provide a quickly digestible protein source, reducing the likelihood of your cat having an adverse response to food.
NATURAL CAT FOOD: Made with the highest quality natural ingredients and supplemented with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including essential antioxidants to support immunity, as well as omega-three fatty acids from fish oil and flaxseed to maintain healthy skin and coat.
Highest quality ingredients: BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulations contain NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, maize, wheat (a frequent thickening agent used by many other brands), soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives.
Prescription cat food: Your veterinarian must approve this therapeutic diet.
Pros
- Has readily digestible salmon hydrolase processed under low temperature and using enzymes to ensure the process is as natural as possible.
- It doesn’t have grains, soy, corn, wheat, artificial flavors, colors, or chicken or poultry by-products.
- It has added natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids for good coat quality and skin.
- It will boost your feline’s immunity since it is antioxidant-rich, including vitamin C and E.
Cons
- When computed on a dry matter basis, its crude fiber content is slightly more significant, at 13.6 percent.
Key Information
- Protein: 8.0%
- Fats: 2.0%
- Fiber: 3.0%
- Calories are 161 Kcal/can
8. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Pate Real Rabbit Recipe Canned Food Review
Instinct by Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Pate Real Rabbit Recipe will satisfy your kitty friend’s desire for real food and cat food in a can. This savory pate is made with an intentionally short list of ingredients, with only one animal protein and one vegetable, rather than the mix seen in most other cat feeds. It’s straightforward and essential nourishment for your cat to thrive, guided by the purity and simplicity of raw. He may now consume delicious, healthy food that is gentle on his digestive system and beneficial to his overall health.
Pros
- There is only one animal protein and one vegetable on the ingredient list for cats with dietary allergies.
- The first ingredient is a farm-raised rabbit, an easily digested, tasty protein that offers all the critical amino acids he needs.
- Vitamins and minerals are added to this delectable pate to provide complete and balanced nutrition.
- This dish has no chicken, meat, fish, dairy, eggs, grain, potato, corn, wheat, or soy.
- They are made in the United States with the finest ingredients from around the globe.
Cons
- It is more expensive than other hydrolyzed wet food available on the market.
- It is not readily available in the market.
Key Information
- Protein: 10.0%
- Fats: 3.0%
- Fiber: 1.5%
- Calories are 361 Kcal/can
- The first five ingredients are Rabbit, Water, Rabbit Liver, Chickpeas, and Montmorillonite Clay in the wet food.
9. Ziwi Peak Lamb Recipe Canned Food Review
Feed Ziwi Peak Lamb Recipe Canned Cat Food to your cat for farm-to-bowl nutrition. Like the Ziwi affection for cats, this recipe is pure and straightforward, giving your companion the best of New Zealand. It’s made to resemble a nutrient-dense whole-prey diet, with fresh meat, organs, and bone and New Zealand green-lipped mussels for chondroitin and glucosamine. Completely balanced nutrition does not include TSPP, BPA, or carrageenan in the canning process to maintain the formula as naturally as possible.
Pros
- The whole-prey ratios of 92 percent meat, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels are found in this single-protein, moisture-rich, chunky pate.
- The grain-free recipe is produced without added carbohydrates such as potatoes, soy, or other low-cost fillers, which are linked to obesity, food allergies, and other health issues.
- It naturally increases mobility, vigor, and general well-being with 10% superfood additions of cold-washed green tripe, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp.
- Serve as a complete meal or a delectable topping to animal pals of all ages and breed types.
Cons
- It is more expensive than other hydrolyzed wet food available on the market.
Key Information
- Protein: 9.5%
- Fats: 6.0%
- Fiber: 2.0%
- Calories are 133 Kcal/can
- The first five ingredients are Lamb, Water Sufficient for Processing, Lamb Lung, Lamb Kidney, and Lamb Liver.
10. Hill’s Prescription Diet Hypo Treats Feline Review
Rather than skipping treats because your cats have food sensitivities, you can purchase Hill’s Prescription Diet Hypo Treats Feline, which will prevent unwanted reactions from treats or foods.
Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians designed special snacks for cats on the Prescription Diet because cats with skin issues or food sensitivities need a treat now and then. a/d, c/d Multicare, c/d Multicare Stress, c/d Multicare Stress + Metabolic, c/d Multicare + Metabolic, g/d, i/d, m/d, r/d, w/d, or z/d cat food. When fed with an appropriate S+OXSHIELD meal, these treats foster a urinary environment that minimizes the chance of producing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals.
Pros
- Veterinarians and nutritionists developed these treats to prevent food sensitivity and boost urinary wellness (reduces calcium oxalate crystals and struvite formation).
- They’ve included omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, good for your skin and coat.
- Because they’ve incorporated potent antioxidants, it helps support skin barrier function.
Cons
- Some cats don’t like the taste of the Hill’s Prescription Diet Hypo Treats.
Key Information
- Protein: 26.6%
- Fats: 18.4%
- Fiber: 3.8%
- Total Omega-3 FA: 0.69 %
- Total Omega-6 FA: 5.76 %
- Calories are 2.3 Kcal/ treat
- Top five ingredients: Hydrolyzed Chicken Liver, Brewers Rice, Corn Starch, Soybean Oil, and Powdered Cellulose.
11. Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Feline Treats Review
Hydrolyzed Protein cat treats from Royal Canin are part of a complete line of veterinary-exclusive solutions for cats with dietary sensitivities. These treats are manufactured using hydrolyzed soy proteins made up of peptides with a low molecular weight. This means the digestive tract can absorb the proteins, lowering the danger of an immune system reaction. Adequate B vitamins and amino acids support a healthy skin barrier. They’re a great way to treat cats on an elimination diet or have long-term food sensitivities because of their high digestion and palatability.
It supports-
SKIN & GI SUPPORT: Assists in reducing skin and gastrointestinal disorders caused by allergies to common proteins contained in pet diets.
Skincare: Essential nutrients enhance skin health in cats with skin sensitivity and inflammation by reinforcing the skin barrier.
Urine SUPPORT: Promotes a urinary environment that is adverse to the formation of struvite and calcium oxalate crystals, supporting urinary tract health.
Long-term care: These adult cat treats are ideal for cats with long-term dietary sensitivities or an elimination diet.
Pros
- Because hydrolysis breaks proteins down into small peptide units that a cat’s immune system will not recognize, these treats for adult felines will lessen or eliminate skin and GI sensitivities seen in many proteins.
- Having adequate quantities of amino acids and vitamin B will help build the skin barrier, reduce skin sensitivities and irritation, and give the necessary sustenance for healthy skin.
- They are pretty pleasant and easily edible.
- Suitable for short-term or long-term use.
Cons
- It is slightly more expensive than the usual treats available in the market.
Key Information
- Protein: 23%
- Fats: 18%
- Fiber: 5.8%%
- Moisture: 8.0%
- Calories are 1.6 Kcal/ treat
- Top five ingredients: Brewer’s rice, hydrolyzed soy protein, chicken fat, powdered cellulose, natural flavors, and dried plain beet pulp.
Why would a cat need hydrolyzed protein?
Food allergies or intolerances can strike cats at any time. Food allergies are reactions that develop when the cat’s body misidentifies harmless dietary components as allergens or antigens. This activates the immune system, resulting in an allergic reaction. For example, after consuming a specific type of food, you may see your cat brushing excessively or scratching incessantly.
Food intolerances, on the other hand, do not cause allergic reactions. When your cat has trouble digesting and absorbing particular foods, it develops this condition. Cats with food intolerances frequently vomit the food they have consumed.
Because proteins cause many allergies in cats, a hydrolyzed diet, in which proteins are broken down into smaller components, can help cats minimize and manage their allergies.
When opposed to consuming a piece of meat by itself, your cat is less likely to develop an allergic reaction to hydrolyzed meat. Both hydrolyzed protein cat food and novel protein cat food are hypoallergenic cat foods that can help your cat’s allergy symptoms lessen and recover while you figure out what foods it’s allergic to.
Is hydrolyzed food good for cats?
Giving your cat hydrolyzed protein cat food has a lot of benefits if it has food allergies or sensitivities.
- Digestion and absorption are more accessible now that the protein has been broken down.
- Long-term use of hydrolyzed diets will help limit the chance of developing allergies because they are hypoallergenic and reduce food sensitivities.
- The majority of hydrolyzed protein cat food comes from a single source of protein, lowering the odds of an allergic reaction even further.
- Cats with inflammatory bowel illness may benefit from hydrolyzed diets.
- Hydrolyzed cat food is complete and balanced, containing all the nutrients cats require.
- Endocrine or auto-immune illnesses.
- Allergic reactions to certain foods, protein, pollen, dust, dander, and grass allergies are examples of environmental allergies.
- External or internal parasitic dermatitis
Because hydrolyzed protein cat food is designed with highly digested proteins, your cat will have fewer allergic reactions. This type of food is also good since it helps maintain your cat’s natural skin barrier and digestive system—nutrients in hydrolyzed protein cat food aid in minimizing inflammation.
Hydrolyzed protein cat food side effects
While hydrolyzed protein cat food allows your cat to recover from allergies and sensitivities, a few drawbacks are considered.
- It does not affect sensitivity. If you change the meal, the allergies will still be there, and symptoms may worsen.
- Food may be less palatable due to tiny peptides in broken-down proteins, making it bitter.
- Hydrolyzed diets may raise osmolarity and cause the intestines to absorb more water. You may have diarrhea or loose stools as a result of this.
- Soy and maize, which are not good for cats, are sometimes found in hydrolyzed protein cat food.
What makes a good hydrolyzed protein cat food
Choosing the best-hydrolyzed protein cat food for your feline companion is critical to avoid exacerbating food allergies and intolerances. If you ever decide to go on a hydrolyzed diet, here are some things to think about.
- Remember to read the label if you’re buying food over the counter. Ingredients, manufacturer names, nutritional adequacy declaration, calorie statements, and a guaranteed analysis of the food content should all be included on labels.
- Ensure the product contains hydrolyzed protein and no soy or other additives.
- Choose foods that are high in animal-based protein and fat. Fat-soluble vitamins require a sufficient amount of fat to be absorbed. Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are also essential components of your cat’s diet.
- Preservatives, artificial flavors and colors, meat by-products, and other low-quality fillers should all be avoided.
- Foods containing synthetic vitamins and minerals should be avoided.
- Choose hydrolyzed foods that are well-balanced and nutrient-dense.
- Even with hydrolyzed meals, some trial and error may be required until you find anything suitable for your cat.
Can hydrolyzed protein cat food help with any of these health issues?
The following are some of the essential advantages of a hydrolyzed protein diet for cats.
- A proper balance of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion.
- It supports sensitive and irritated skin by promoting and reinforcing a healthy skin barrier with necessary nutrients.
- Reduces cutaneous and gastrointestinal symptoms caused by common protein allergies.
- Reduces the chance of a reaction by using proteins that the immune system doesn’t recognize.
If you think your feline buddy will benefit from a hydrolyzed protein diet, contact your veterinarian immediately to schedule an appointment. Keep in mind that specialist pet foods, such as hydrolyzed protein require veterinarian approval. Just a word of warning: this isn’t cheap cuisine! Quality comes at a price, but our cats are well worth the money.
The following are some of the clinical problems that the feline hydrolyzed protein diet is designed to address:
- Skin diseases that recur
- Inflammation of the ears
- Hair loss is a common problem.
- Itchiness
- GI problems, such as diarrhea
- On the skin, there are sores and rashes.
- The eyes, ears, nose, and paw pads are all crusty.
- Make an appointment with your veterinarian straight once if you observe any of the symptoms above.
Allergies to food in cats
Cats, like people, can have adverse reactions to specific protein sources and components. When the immune system reacts unfavorably to a protein that the body recognizes as foreign, an allergic reaction develops. When your cat’s body recognizes a foreign protein, it activates the immune system in an attempt to combat it.
As a result, cats will develop itching, skin inflammation, diarrhea, and other unpleasant symptoms. Hydrolyzed protein cat diet is specifically designed to prevent these food reactions.
Food allergies can manifest themselves in a variety of ways.
- Diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence, and noisy sounds from the GI tract are examples of GI indicators.
- Itching, biting, and scratching of the ears, face, armpit, groin, belly, rectum (may cause scooting), paws, and other areas are all symptoms of pruritus.
- Dermatological signs – Your cats may have red, irritated skin, scaling, recurrent skin and ear infections, hair loss, poor coat quality, and other dermatological issues linked to itching.
- Coughing, sneezing, or wheezing are all symptoms of asthma.
IBD cat food containing hydrolyzed protein
In food elimination studies for cats with inflammatory bowel illness, hydrolyzed protein cat food is also employed (IBD). Infections, as well as food sensitivities and intolerances, can cause IBD. Chronic vomiting and diarrhea are common in cats with IBD.
Because IBD is linked to food, veterinarians may prescribe hydrolyzed protein cat food to prevent foods from stimulating the immune system. When cats with IBD are fed a hydrolyzed protein diet, their symptoms often improve. Switching back to ordinary cat food, on the other hand, may cause symptoms to flare up again.
Points to note while choosing food for a cat with IBD
Because there are so many alternatives, we are choosing cat food might be difficult. How can you know which one is superior to the others and which is best for your cat? We don’t expect you to become a pet food expert, but we want you to have the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Although we’ve already provided you with a wealth of helpful information, you’re undoubtedly still eager to see our recommendations. Please take a moment to learn how we make our decisions so you can trust them before we deliver them to you. Remember, we only recommend goods that we depend on to feed our cats.
Select a diet that is rich in energy density
When feeding a cat with IBD, an energy-dense meal will ensure that your cat gets all of the nutrients they require while decreasing the amount of food that passes through the gut.
Your cat’s exact calorie requirements should be determined, as excess can lead to obesity, exacerbating IBD symptoms. Your veterinarian can help you figure out how much to feed your cat each day to keep her at her desired weight. Cups are incorrect, so use a scale to measure your cat’s daily allowance.
Choose high in protein Diet
Cats with IBD may be protein deficient, either because they have difficulty digesting dietary sources or because their bodies lose protein due to gastrointestinal inflammation. On a dry matter basis, it is suggested that a diet for IBD comprises at least 35 percent protein.
Protein requirements for your cat may alter if they have a medical issue. Ask your veterinarian for a more precise recommendation at your cat’s next appointment.
Consider a diet rich in hydrolyzed protein
A cat with IBD may also be experiencing an unfavorable food reaction, which would exacerbate the symptoms. Choosing a diet with different foods, significantly as a source of protein, can help overcome this problem.
A hydrolyzed protein diet is the best option for a suspected adverse food response or allergy. As an amino acid supply, this diet relies on proteins that have been broken down into tiny bits. Because these bits are so small, they are unlikely to cause a reaction. These diets are famous for dietary clinical trials to determine which element is causing the issue.
Insoluble fiber should be a part of your diet. Insoluble fiber, for example, aids in the maintenance of a healthy gastrointestinal tract and can alleviate IBD symptoms. It increases fecal volume and hastens the passage of food through the intestines.
Does Your Cat Need Hydrolyzed Protein Food?
The advantages of a hydrolyzed protein diet for cats are listed below.
- A proper balance of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion.
- It supports sensitive and irritated skin by promoting and reinforcing a healthy skin barrier with necessary nutrients.
- Reduces cutaneous and gastrointestinal symptoms caused by common protein allergies.
- Reduces the chance of a reaction by using proteins that the immune system doesn’t recognize.
If you think your feline buddy will benefit from a hydrolyzed protein diet, contact your veterinarian immediately to schedule an appointment. Keep in mind that specialist pet foods, such as hydrolyzed protein require veterinarian approval. Just a word of warning: this isn’t cheap cuisine! Quality comes at a price, but our cats are well worth the money.
Where to buy Hydrolyzed protein food for cats
Hydrolyzed protein diet for cats was previously exclusively accessible through veterinarians. Thankfully, that is no longer the case, and it can now be found at a few large merchants.
Only a few hydrolyzed protein cat diets are genuinely exceptional.
How Can I Feed My Pet Hydrolyzed Protein?
Hydrolyzed protein liquid supplements can be added to your pet’s food to give an easily digested form of nutritional protein. These supplements are developed explicitly for newborn feeding or those with malabsorption or GI issues. These are available at health food stores and specialty stores. If you’re looking for a liquid hydrolyzed protein supplement, make sure it’s free of sugar and artificial flavors.
If your pet has gastrointestinal problems, talk to your veterinarian about if adding a liquid hydrolyzed protein supplement could help. This is especially crucial if they’re taking any other medications or have other health issues that could cause their digestion to be hampered.
Another option is commercial hydrolyzed protein meals for cats and dogs. However, because the quality of these diets varies, you should do your research and check with your holistic veterinarian before deciding.
FAQ
What is the difference between hydrolyzed protein cat food and regular cat food?
As the name implies, hydrolyzed protein cat food is a formula for cat food produced with hydrolyzed protein. Protein chains are broken down into smaller segments or split into individual amino acids. It inhibits an allergic reaction in the cat by breaking apart the proteins and changing how the cat’s body reacts to them. Recipes for hydrolyzed protein cat food are typically created for cats with food allergies or intolerances, while in regular cat food, the protein is not hydrolyzed.
What is the definition of hypoallergenic cat food?
The phrase hypoallergenic simply refers to something unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Based on what you’ve learned so far, you should be able to guess that hypoallergenic cat food varies from one cat to the next, depending on what the cat is allergic to. Hypoallergenic cat food will simply be a dish without chicken ingredients if your cat is just allergic to chicken.
Is it possible for cats to be allergic to hydrolyzed protein?
No, allergic reactions are not triggered by hydrolyzed proteins. Because the protein is broken down to the point where it is unidentifiable by the immune system, it does not stimulate the same response as an allergic reaction, and your cat will not react.
What protein causes the most allergic reactions in cats?
Protein allergies in cats are the most common, including chicken, beef, and seafood. After being frequently exposed to food, most cats acquire food allergies between 2 and 6. If you feed your cat chicken every day, he is more likely to purchase a chicken allergy. Although changing your cat’s diet isn’t a guarantee against food allergies, some animal nutritionists believe it can help.
What is the best food for allergy-prone cats?
While some doctors may suggest hydrolyzed protein for cat food allergies, it is not the only alternative. In reality, it might not be the most excellent choice. Avoiding the item your cat is sensitive to is the best way to manage a food allergy. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of cat food recipes available, and that provides you a lot of leeway in finding one without the allergen your cat is allergic to. Shopping for local ingredients in cat food will help you cut down your alternatives.
Conclusion
Hydrolyzed proteins have been broken down into small pieces that won’t cause an immunological reaction in your cat. As a result, if your cat suffers from food allergies, hydrolyzed protein cat food may be beneficial. Many of your cat’s medical issues can be addressed with hydrolyzed protein food. This diet is healthy for the skin, allergies, and gastrointestinal problems, and it’s also an excellent choice for cats with auto-immune diseases. It’s crucial to remember that hydrolyzed protein isn’t a “wonder cure.”
Your cat’s primary source of nourishment is the food he eats. Treats are lovely, but they shouldn’t account for a large portion of your cat’s diet. Your cat’s food needs to meet his nutritional needs in the best way possible because it’s about the only thing he consumes. It’s complicated when your cat develops a food allergy or intolerance, but that doesn’t mean you have to turn to an expensive (and probably inferior) product like hydrolyzed cat food.
If you’re worried about your cat’s allergies, consult your veterinarian to rule out other possible causes. You can then go on an elimination diet to see if his symptoms go away. If they do, and you’ve figured out what’s causing the allergy, all you have to do now is offer your cat food that doesn’t include that component! One of the products on our list could be the ideal match for you.
Contact your veterinarian to start your cat on a hydrolyzed protein diet. To buy the food, you’ll need a veterinarian’s approval.
Get your cat on hydrolyzed protein food as soon as possible to help them feel better.