Let’s learn how to care for our furry friends!
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Here at Test My Paws we are specialists at pet sensitivity!
We understand that allergy, intolerance, and sensitivity are terms that are often used interchangeably which can lead to confusion. Test My Paws aims to break down complex scientific concepts into engaging and easily understandable content.
Our goal is to empower you with knowledge in a fun and accessible way so you can understand your pet better.
Allergy
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An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system reacts strongly to something harmless, like food or pollen.
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Symptoms are normally immediate and include: itching, hives, or more serious reactions like difficulty breathing.
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Hair testing does not test antibody levels, therefore this is why our tests cannot be used to test for allergies. Blood testing is the only way to fully learn about allergies affecting an animal.
Intolerance
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An intolerance happens when your body has trouble digesting certain foods, like lactose in milk.
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It leads to digestive issues like bloating or diarrhoea, but it's not an immune system reaction.
Sensitivity
Pets, like humans, can exhibit a variety of sensitivities that affect their behaviour, health, and overall well-being.​
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Certain foods or substances can cause reactions like headaches, skin problems, digestive discomfort and behavioural changes, but it's not an allergy or intolerance. The exact reasons why this happens can vary. Here are some common pet sensitivities:
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Protein
Common culprits include chicken, beef, dairy, and fish. Pets might show symptoms like itching, gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea), or ear infections.
Grains
Some pets may be sensitive to grains like wheat, corn, and soy, leading to digestive issues or skin problems.
Additives
Artificial preservatives, colourings, and flavours can also cause reactions in some pets.
Test My Paws provides a non invasive route to identify specific ingredients or components causing sensitivity through elimination diets.​ By understanding and managing these sensitivities, you can help ensure your pets lead comfortable and healthy lives.
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Consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and guidance on managing their diet. They may recommend specific diets or supplements to address nutritional deficiencies while avoiding triggers.
How Test My Paws can help
Our tests provide a valuable initial guidance by identifying potential food sensitivities. By following the test results, you can design a targeted elimination diet that helps in pinpointing and avoiding specific triggers. This structured approach leads to better management of food sensitivities, improving your pet's overall health and well-being.
Phase 1: Ingredient Selection
The diet should consist of food sources that were not flagged as potential sensitivities.
Phase 4: Gradual Reintroduction
Introduce one potential food sensitivity from the test results back into the diet every 1-2 weeks. Track symptoms during the elimination phase after each new ingredient is introduced.
Phase 2: Implementing the Elimination Diet
The diet should consist of food sources that were not flagged as potential sensitivities.
Phase 5: Long Term Diet
Develop a balanced diet that includes the food sources identified through the elimination and reintroduction phases. Keep an eye out for any new symptoms or reactions, which may require further dietary modifications.
Phase 3: Monitoring and Documentation
Carefully observe and document any changes in symptoms such as skin reactions, gastrointestinal issues, or behavioural changes.
Always ensure your pet attends regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health and make dietary adjustments as needed.