Is Your Pet's Diet Making Them Itch?
If your pet won't stop scratching, it might be fleas, allergies, or (most commonly) their food.
Skin and gut health are very closely linked, and diet can play a big part when pets develop itchy skin, dull coats, or digestive issues. It’s not always easy to spot, or to solve, but here are a few signs to look out for…
The Difference Between Food Allergies & Intolerances
It’s easy to confuse the two, but understanding the difference can help you take the right steps.
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to proteins in the food. This can cause immediate or delayed symptoms such as rashes and vomiting. Allergies are usually more severe and can even affect breathing.
Intolerances are more common, and reactions can be more subtle. The usual symptoms will stem from the gut in the form of bloating, gas, or loose stools, but not exclusively. They can also appear as joint pain or, more commonly, itchy skin.
Signs Your Pet May Have A Food Intolerance
This is where you become the expert. As your pet’s parent, you know what’s normal for them and what isn’t, so your observations are key.
Watch out for…
The Candida Curse (Or, Why There Is Such A Thing As Too Many Carrots!)
Let’s talk about candida, a natural yeast that lives in the gut. When it’s in balance, you won’t know it’s there, but when overfed (especially by sugars and refined carbs), candida can become a big issue.
Excess sugar → Excess yeast → Itching, skin issues, and a distinctive musty smell!
Even natural sugars (from fruit or sweet vegetables, like carrots) can cause yeast to overgrow if your pet is sensitive. Combined with a high-carb kibble or processed treats, candida is a recipe for discomfort.
What To Do If You Suspect A Food Intolerance
Start with the basics, and check the ingredients.
✅ Avoid derivatives, by-products, sugars, and additives.
✅ Cut out ‘naughty’ treats and table scraps- yes, even that tiny bit of toast crust!
✅ Look for simple, wholesome ingredients
What 'Hypoallergenic' Really Means
The term ‘hypoallergenic’ has no legal guidelines or regulatory requirements. While most ‘hypoallergenic’ foods will be formulated without problematic ingredients such as wheat, maize, and artificial additives, manufacturers can use the term without adhering to any set criteria.
Always check the label on ‘hypoallergenic’ foods to ensure it is not just a marketing strategy, and remember- if your dog is intolerant to chicken, a ‘hypoallergenic’ chicken-based food will not suit them!
Try An Elimination Diet
An elimination diet is the most fuss-free way to discover which ingredients make your pet itch.
Choose one single protein. We usually recommend something sensitive like duck or fish, or a novel protein like goat.
Feed that protein exclusively (including treats) for 6-8 weeks, and track the symptoms: is your pet less itchy? Have their stools improved, and do they have more energy?
Once your pet improves, you can reintroduce proteins one at a time to see what triggers a reaction (or just stick with what you know works!) If you need support or advice to set up an elimination diet, that’s what we are here for. Why not try our Brown’s Consultation service?
Use Supplements To Ease Itchy Skin
We always recommend supporting your pet with targeted natural supplements.
Nourish skin with Proflax Skin & Coat Oil. Proflax blends flaxseed oil with nettle chamomile, and other functional herbs to calm from the inside out.
Dorwest Easy Green Powder is the ultimate soothing superfood for itchy and inflamed skin.
Serendipity Neem & Hemp Shampoo and Serendipity Organic Neem Oil Salve are our heroes for saving itchy skin. Neem has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that calm itching on contact (it’s also a great flea repellent!)
Ongoing Support, When You Need It
A Brown’s Consultation isn’t a one-time event; we’re always available for follow-ups, questions, and updates.
Sometimes we hit the jackpot with our first suggestion, but we love a challenge too. Real life with pets is rarely that simple, and it’s normal to take a trial-and-error approach to find a sustainable solution.
We can support you throughout the entire process- tweaking the plan, checking progress, or providing a fresh perspective. Whether you’re troubleshooting or celebrating progress, we’re here!
Ready To Ditch The Itch?
Itching, scratching, and tummy troubles don’t have to be your pet’s “normal.” With the right diet, natural support, and a bit of detective work, you can help your pet thrive.
Whether you're just starting out or you’ve tried everything and feel stuck, a fresh pair of eyes and some honest, expert advice might be all it takes.
Pop into one of our stores, give us a call, or reach out for a free Brown’s Consultation. We’ll listen, advise, and help you make a plan that works for your pet.
