Food Intolerance in Kittens & Low Carbohydrate Diets
Young kittens may at times suffer from a food intolerance. Watch for signs and symptoms and contact your veterinarian to determine the proper treatment. To combat the associated symptoms, the veterinarian may prescribe a low-carbohydrate diet.
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Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance
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Food intolerance is different from a food allergy. Food allergies involve the immune system and can manifest externally, such as itching. Food intolerance affects the gastrointestinal system.
Signs and Symptoms of Food Intolerance
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The kitten suffering from a food intolerance may vomit soon after eating. She may have frequent bowel movements or diarrhea after eating. She may also experience abdominal pain. The veterinarian will determine food intolerance after placing the kitten on an elimination diet. He may then recommend a low-carbohydrate diet.
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What is a Low-Carbohydrate Diet?
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The low-carbohydrate diet is also known as a highly digestible diet for cats These diets are moderate to low in carbohydrate content, high in protein and moderate to low in fats. They also contain fewer food preservatives, food colors or flavorings. Occasionally, special additives, such as soluble fiber, omega-3s, probiotics and antioxidants are included. Different formulations are available in the commercial market, most often as canned food. Dry foods tend to be high in carbohydrates. Pet owners may have to try different kinds before finding the one that is right.
Treatment for Diarrhea
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Diarrhea is often a sign that the kitten has some kind of food intolerance. In adults it can develop into inflammatory bowel disease, if left untreated. Kittens who suffer from diarrhea are often encouraged to go on the highly digestible, low-carbohydrate diet for relief. Kittens with diarrhea need to be carefully monitored and have fecal samples checked regularly to make sure there are no other gastrointestinal problems.
Treatment for Vomiting
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Occasionally the kitten who is suffering from a food intolerance will also vomit his food. The low-carbohydrate is beneficial, as it is highly digestible, making it more likely that he will stop throwing up.
Diabetes
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A diabetic kitten is sensitive to sugar in her diet. Similar to humans, a kitten who has Type I diabetes cannot produce enough insulin in her pancreas. Type 2 diabetes means the kitten becomes insulin-resistant and blood sugar levels remain elevated. The veterinarian may recommend a low-carbohydrate diet with or without insulin shots to maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Carbohydrates are sugars, too much of which can destroy a diabetic cat's endocrine system.
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