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Cat skin allergies and foods to control them

Skin allergies are quite common in cats. Pesky and bothersome, the allergies can range from constant itches, sneezes, to vomiting in extreme cases. Allergies indicate an adverse reaction of the cat’s immune system to some object or food. Many things may cause an adverse reaction in cats. However, with a little patience and care, you can treat it effectively. For instance, you can consider several kinds of cat food for skin allergies.

Before we get into the details of those, let us look closely at the most common skin allergies in cats.

Common skin allergies in cats

Abscess
An abscess is a common skin condition in cats. These are localized wounds on the surface of the skin. Cats tend to scrape themselves against random objects, animals, or other cats, causing the skin to rupture. This may get infected, causing an abscess. The treatment will depend on the kind and depth of infection.
Feline acne
Feline acne is more commonly known as blackheads, and these are typically found on the edges of the lips, and the underside of the chin. There are several reasons for cat acne. Chemicals present in shampoos, food containers, and water dishes are mainly to blame.
Ear mites
If you find your cat constantly shaking, tilting, or shaking their head, they may be struggling with ear mites. Another tell-tale sign is the existence of a brown waxy material close to the ear canal. Check for the appropriate cat food for skin allergies to alleviate this problem.
Food allergy dermatitis
Most cats do not do well with preservatives and artificial ingredients in food. If your cat falls in this category, you may want to watch out for dermatitis triggered by food allergies. This may appear as severe itching in the back, neck, and head. The cat may even experience swelling in the eyes.
Ringworm
This is one of the most contagious skin infections. It requires treatment by a vet and extensive sterilizing around your home. The infection appears as round patches, hair loss, and a red ring at the periphery.
Psychogenic alopecia
This condition is most likely a result of excessive self-grooming. It appears as thinning of fur on the back or the abdomen. In many cases, occupying or diverting the cat’s nervous energy will take care of the problem. However, you can provide appropriate cat food for skin allergies, and take care of it.

How to avoid allergy?
Always take the advice of a vet before you address the skin problems of your cat(s). While that is always the right approach, it makes sense to consider the cat’s diet too. If your cat is susceptible to skin allergies, consider switching to specialized cat food for skin allergies. There are several advantages to doing this.

These foods are specially formulated and free from contaminants.
Hypoallergenic cat food for skin allergies is broken down so that the body does not recognize the allergens.
Some skin allergies are temporary, but others need close monitoring and life-long management. And for that, you need to tweak the cat’s diet.
Even if the skin allergy is not nutrition-related, the right cat food for skin allergies will help manage the symptoms.

Triggers of skin allergies in cats
There are several triggers for a skin allergy in cats. Among the many triggers, these are the most common ones.

Food intolerance or allergy
It is common to see a cat react adversely to new ingredients or a new kind of food. This is especially true when they are exposed to a food they have not been exposed to previously. A quick evaluation by a vet will tell you what might be the best cat food for skin allergies.
Pollen or dust allergy
Atopy is a condition that is quite common in humans. There is a tendency to develop allergies to environmental allergens in this case. However, in cases of cats, it is far more challenging to diagnose. The vet typically arrives at this diagnosis by ruling out other possible causes of pruritus. Generally, opting for the best cat food for skin allergies will help reverse some of the problems.
Insect bites
Mosquitoes can cause Eosinophilic Granuloma in cats. Insects, such as bees, midges, fleas, or wasps, may bite cats. When the cat’s skin meets the saliva of the insect, it tends to cause a severe infection or reaction. Such an allergy is typically seen in the hairless parts of the cat’s body.
Bacterial infections
Bacterial infections can be caused due to several reasons. While it may not be relevant, good quality cat food for skin allergies can help manage the problem to a great extent.
Mites
A simple ear inflammation called Otitis Externa may be the reason why your cat has a skin problem. While mites primarily cause an ear infection, they may wander around in the ear, neck, and face regions, creating a form of pruritus skin infection. While this is centralized around this area, if not taken care of, such an infection may spread to other parts of the body.

Signs of skin allergies and infections in cats
Ideally, your cat’s skin should be soft (without flakes) and smooth. The skin must not be too oily or dry. Any redness or irritation is not normal, and it is best to investigate it further. There are several revealing signs of skin infection in cats. Here’s what you need to look out for.

Pimples, acne, or breakouts on the skin is a sign that there is something wrong.
Miliary dermatitis is a condition where the skin exhibits crusty patches. It may also present itself as hardened skin or scabs all over the body of the cat.
Your cat might experience loss of hair. Sometimes, this is described as symmetrical hair loss.
Excessive itching and self-inflicted damage to the skin due to the itching may be noticed.
Eosinophilic Granuloma is quite common in cats. It presents itself as skin lesions, typically seen in the upper lip region, oral cavity, and in some cases, all over the body.
Skin odor is also a common sign that the cat is struggling with an infection that needs investigation.
Licking and rubbing may seem like a part of the normal grooming process. However, if these actions seem excessive, a vet’s quick evaluation will tell you if it is a skin problem.

Best cat foods to control skin allergies

Royal Canin Hypoallergenic HP Dry Diet
A hypoallergenic diet is essentially given to cats to rule out several issues or problems.
Ingredients
It is essentially made of hydrolyzed soy proteins, consisting of limited ingredients. It is composed of low molecular weight peptides that will ensure that it is absorbed easily by the feline’s body without triggering a reaction from the immune system. Vitamin B and certain other amino acids help to keep the cat’s skin barrier strong and healthy. Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA are the additional supplements, but they promote the cat’s skin and coat. Besides, the formulation contains healthy fibers to support easy and effective digestion.
Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of switching to this cat food for skin allergies is that it reduces GI and skin reactions. Other pet foods contain certain commonly used proteins that are harder to digest.
This formulation works explicitly to make the digestion process easier. The protein is broken down, so your cat’s system does not recognize the allergen.
Additional supplements take care of the overall health of the cat too.
Hill’s z/d Cat Food for Allergies
Ingredients
This is a wet cat food that is formulated to manage a cat’s sensitivity towards food. It also aims to reduce the adverse reactions to foods of any kind. The main component of this food is a combination of digestible carbohydrates and fats that works to reduce the workload of the intestines. The formula also features a blend of 6 fatty acids and a certain amount of omega-3. It does not feature any animal protein (original form) and includes a healthy dose of antioxidants to improve the immune system and the cat’s skin barrier.
Benefits
Allergic skin infections and gastrointestinal stress go hand-in-hand. This cat food for skin allergies tackles this effectively by fortifying the formula with antioxidants.
The source of the only protein used in this formula is chicken liver. However, it is in a highly hydrolyzed form. This ensures that even those cats that cannot handle this protein are protected from the allergy.
The digestible food is safe and is considered great even for those cats that suffer from pancreatitis and/or IBD.
Hill’s d/d Skin and Food Sensitivities — Canned
Ingredients
The food does not contain soy, grains, and gluten. Typically, if you are dealing with a cat with a problem, then this cat food for skin allergies will work wonders. It contains a healthy dose of antioxidants and fatty acids so that the skin of your cat stays shiny and healthy all the time. This is one of the best “limited ingredient” diets that you must consider when planning to switch to cat food for skin allergies.
Benefits
Do you have a fussy cat? Well, consider this as a perfect solution, as you try to feed them a nutritious meal.
If your cat suffers from dermatitis, this formula will prevent allergic skin reactions and help support the immune system. This is also a great option for cats with sensitive stomachs.
This cat food is easily digestible, and therefore, a good option if your cat is susceptible to vomiting and diarrhea.
This is not hydrolyzed food, which means that the taste is better and more acceptable. Fussy cats will appreciate the texture and taste of this cat food.
Blue Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Food for Cats with Skin Conditions

Ingredients
One of the primary protein ingredients in this formula is duck. The protein is fortified with the addition of peas and pumpkin too. This food is a tasty blend of vitamins, oxidants, and minerals.
Benefits
The biggest benefit of this formula is that it avoids most of the ingredients that tend to cause trouble. For instance, there is no chicken, beef, eggs, milk, wheat, corn, or soy.
Pumpkin and peas are easily digestible, making them a perfect addition to this formula. Further, it is easy on the cat’s gut and improves stool quality.
The formula helps to maintain an ideal oxidative balance, which makes it healthy.
This cat food is suitable for cats of any age. Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, make this part of their regular diet.
Instinct Limited Cat Food for Allergies
Ingredients
This is a balanced and nourishing option for cats with sensitive stomachs and skin allergies. Turkey is the main source of protein in this cat food. The food is a complete diet on its own, but it can be used as a topper or a mixer. It does not contain any of the notorious “allergy triggers”- chicken, beef, soy, grains, eggs, or fish.
Benefits
It is popular as it is a wet food that has the most palatable texture and taste.
The food is made with real meat and whole-food ingredients.
It offers balanced nutrition that is packed with natural omegas. This not only helps to keep allergies at bay but also boosts the immune system effectively.
The protein used is specifically “cage-free” to ensure that it does not trigger any skin allergies in cats.

If you have a feline companion that is picky about eating or is prone to allergies, make sure that you pick the right cat food for skin allergies. A vet can also examine your pet and guide you more.

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An Overview Of Colon Polyps

An overview of colon polyps Colon polyps are small clumps of cells formed on the lining of the colon. The majority of these polyps tend to be harmless, but with time, there are certain polyps that can easily grow into colon cancer. This is a serious condition, especially when found in the later stages. Almost any individual can develop colon polyps. People who are over 50 years of age are at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Even smokers and overweight individuals or people with a family or personal history of colon polyps might be at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Colon polyps – causes are slightly known, but this condition rarely causes any symptoms. Therefore, for individuals who are at risk of developing the condition, it is important to have screening tests on a regular basis. These will include a colonoscopy. Polyps found in the early stages can conveniently be removed. They can be removed completely in a very safe manner. Regular screening is the best step for the prevention of colon polyps. What are the colon polyps – causes? Doctors do not exactly know the causes of colon polyps, but they are of the view that polyps are a result of abnormal tissue growth. The human body develops healthy cells in a periodic manner, thus replacing the old cells that tend to be damaged or are no longer required. The division and growth of these new cells is regulated. However, there are cases when the new cells develop and then divide before they are actually needed. It is this excessive growth that results in polyps. Packaged red meat is also one of the most common colon polyps – causes. Fiber deficiency in the body. High-fat diet taken in excessive amounts. Smoking cigarettes. Obesity is also one of the major colon polyps – causes. Inherited conditions such as Gardener syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome might also put an individual at an increased risk of having colon polyps. What signs and symptoms do colon polyps show? Majority of the individuals suffering from colon polyps do not show any symptoms. They are actually unaware of the fact that they have polyps, because they feel very well. Bleeding from the rectum is one of the most common symptoms of colon polyps. Blood in the stool can also be a sign of colon polyps. Blood might make stool look black, or there can be red streaks in stool. A feeling of tiredness due to anemia and not having sufficient iron in the body are common symptoms. It is the bleeding from the polyps that can result in an iron deficiency and anemia. Several other health issues might also result in these signs. Nevertheless, if rectum bleeding or blood in the stool are everyday phenomena, a consultation with a doctor is vital. How can colon polyps be prevented? Knowing the colon polyps – causes can help prevent the condition. However, there are other important steps that can be followed in trying to prevent this condition. They are as listed: Regular screenings. Lifestyle changes can also be of help in doing away with the colon polyps – causes, and, consequently, prevent them. Adopting healthy habits such as eating fruits, whole grains, and vegetables and reducing fat intake can help in the prevention of colon polyps. Limiting the intake of alcohol and quitting tobacco. Staying active physically and maintaining a healthy body weight is also important. When should one see a doctor? A general physician must be consulted in case of the following: Blood in the stool Abdominal pain Changes in bowel habits for more than a week It is important for one to have a word with their physician regarding their intake of vitamin D and calcium. This is because studies have proved that increasing the intake of food items rich in vitamin D and calcium can help prevent the recurrence of polyps. However, this is not completely clear. It is important to consider all the options, especially if one is at a very high risk of suffering from colon polyps.

The Types Of Colon Polyps And Their Prevention

The types of colon polyps and their prevention Growths that occur on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and usually protrude into the colon are known as colon polyps. They form when the genetic material within the cells that line the colon changes and becomes abnormal. Under normal circumstances, the immature cells that line the colon multiply, mature, and then die in a timely fashion. On the other hand, the genetic changes in the lining cells prevent the cells from maturing, and they don’t die. Resultantly, immature and genetically abnormal cells start accumulating in the colon, eventually resulting in the formation of polyps. This article intends to raise awareness about colon polyps, its types, symptoms, diagnosis, the colon polyps – causes, and more. What are the types of colon polyps? Inflammatory colon polyps : Also known as false polyps, it is mostly found in people who have inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. These polyps are inflammatory manifestations of IBD, are benign, and are unlikely to become cancerous. Adenomatous colon polyps : Also known as adenomas, this type of colon polyps make up about 70% of all polyps found in the colon. They can become cancerous, but the process takes years. Hyperplastic colon polyps : The term hyperplasia means fast growth, which indicates an abnormal increase in the number of cells resulting in the gross enlargement of the colon polyp. Despite the rapid growth, hyperplastic polyps have a low risk of turning cancerous. Villous adenoma : This type of colon polyp has a greater potential of becoming cancerous. It is estimated that approximately 30 percent of villous adenomas develop into a malignancy. These polyps require surgery for the removal of their cauliflower-like protrusions. What are the causes of colon polyps? Experts are not sure about the colon polyps – causes. However, the causes are believed to be a mix of environmental and genetic factors that result in an abnormal tissue growth. What are the known risk factors of colon polyps? Age : The risk of developing colon polyps tends to increase with age. Family history : A close relative with colon cancer or polyps raises the risk. Sex : Men have a slightly higher chance of developing polyps. Race : Black men and women have a higher risk. Alcohol : Alcohol consumption is closely linked to colon cancer risk and is known as one of the colon polyps – causes. Red meat : If not had in moderation, red meat can serve as one of the colon polyps – causes. Having too much red meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer as well. Lack of dietary fiber : A good intake of fiber has many benefits, including colon benefits. It decreases the risk of colon cancer. Smoking : Smoking increases the risk of all types of cancers, and colon polyps or cancer is no exception. Obesity : Obese people are at higher risk of developing colon polyps and cancer. How are colonic polyps diagnosed? The following tests help diagnose colon polyps: Colonoscopy Sigmoidoscopy Barium enema CT colonography Stool test What are the symptoms of colon polyps? Change in stool color Rectal bleeding Iron deficiency Anemia Change in bowel habits Abdominal pain Blood in the stool Fatigue How common are colon polyps? They are very common. They increase in prevalence as people age. If one has colon polyps, they are more likely to develop polyps elsewhere in the colon later. Only a small proportion of polyps cause symptoms or signs, which usually are the result of bleeding from the polyp. How can colon polyps be prevented? Adopt healthy habits : Adopt healthy habits and increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit fat intake, alcohol consumption, and quit tobacco. Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight. Avoid all the estimated colon polyps – causes. Seek advice if at high risk : If there’s a family history of colon polyps or its other risk factors affect one, seeking prompt medical advice and counseling is important. With regular colonoscopies, one can prevent the colon polyps – causes from developing, and hence preventing the colon from developing.

Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors – Prognosis And Life Expectancy

Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors – Prognosis and life expectancy The neuroendocrine system is a complex regulatory mechanism comprised of cells spread throughout several organ systems, including our lungs and digestive system. As they have characteristics of both nerves and endocrine cells, they are called neuroendocrine cells. The nerve cells transmit signals using electrical impulses, whereas endocrine cells make thyroid and insulin-secreting glands. This article intends to discuss the carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor that starts in these cells in detail. What is a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? A carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor starts in the cells of the hormone-producing organs in our body. A carcinoid tumor is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that most commonly arises in the gastrointestinal system, which includes intestines, stomach, and esophagus. Carcinoid tumors account for about 1% to 2% of lung cancers. As carcinoid tumors originate from tissue that produces hormones, the main side effect of the condition is the inappropriate release of various hormones in the bloodstream. Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor can arise in a number of locations categorized into three areas: the foregut, midgut, and hindgut. Lungs and stomach form the foregut area. The midgut comprises of the small intestine, colon, and appendix. The hindgut includes the end of the large bowel, the rectum, and genitourinary tract organs (ovaries and testes). What factors raise a person’s risk of developing a carcinoid tumor? A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 : This hereditary condition increases an individual’s risk of developing tumors in the pituitary gland, pancreas, and parathyroid gland. Age : Age seems to be a major factor that plays an integral role, as children rarely develop carcinoid tumors; the average diagnosis age is 55 to 65 years for this condition. Race and gender : Carcinoid tumors are more common among black people than white people, and black men have a higher risk than black women. White men and women have the same risk levels, and after treatment, women tend to live longer. Other medical conditions : Some medical conditions that damage the stomach and reduce acid production increase the risk of developing a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor. What are the symptoms of a carcinoid tumor? Signs and symptoms of a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor depend on where the tumor develops: Carcinoid tumors in the lungs : The symptoms of a tumor in the lungs are chest pain, wheezing, diarrhea, shortness of breath, skin flushing (redness and a feeling of warmth on the face and neck), weight gain, particularly around the midsection and back, and pink or purple marks on the skin, which look like stretch marks. Carcinoid tumors in the digestive tract : The symptoms, in this case, are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, intestinal blockage, causing an inability to pass stool, rectal bleeding and pain, and skin flushing. What are some effective management tips for the symptoms of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? Facial flushing : Avoid stress and ask your doctor about specific foods that cause facial flushing so that you can avoid them. Diarrhea : Ask your doctor for anti-diarrheal medication. Wheezing : Ask for medication that relaxes muscles in the lungs to make breathing easier. Heart problems : Discuss your heart issues with your doctor so that they can prescribe diuretics, which lower the blood pressure. Carcinoid syndrome : Use octreotide on prescription, which is the most effective medication to treat carcinoid syndrome. What is the prognosis for carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign carcinoid tumors are small and can be removed completely. They don’t come back and don’t spread to other parts of the body. They don’t produce any symptoms as well. Malignant carcinoid tumors are large, and their cells can invade and damage the surrounding tissues and organs. Additionally, malignant cells can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and can even form new tumors in other parts of the body. Lymph nodes, lungs, bone liver, and skin are the common sites for carcinoid metastases. Carcinoid tumors grow slowly in comparison to other cancers, such as lung, colon, pancreas, or liver cancer. Patients with larger malignant carcinoid tumors (with or without metastasis) can survive and have a good quality of life after proper treatment. Adenocarcinoids, a rare form of carcinoid tumors, are more aggressive than the typical malignant carcinoid tumors.

What Are The First Signs Of Liver Damage

Liver damage – What are the first signs? On the right side of the abdomen, below your rib cage, is an organ called the liver. It is the size of a football and is one of the most important organs in the human body. The liver aids in the digestion of the food we eat and also helps in flushing out the toxins from our body. When there is any kind of disturbance in the normal liver functioning, then it can cause a significant damage to the human body. Once you start exhibiting the signs of liver damage, it is important to get the exact diagnosis and take the next steps accordingly. What are the causes of liver damage? There can be a number of causes for liver damage: Liver infection is one of the most common causes of liver damage. Viruses and parasites can cause infections that affect the normal functioning of the liver. Hepatitis is the most common liver infection, which includes Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Some diseases will affect your immune system thereby damaging your liver too. This is called autoimmune hepatitis. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis are of the same kind. If you have inherited an abnormal gene from any of your parents or family members, it can lead to a build up of various substances in the body and hence can damage the liver. Build up of liver cancer can be a cause. A person who is an alcohol addict is more prone to liver damage. What are the first signs of liver damage? There can be several signs of a liver damage. Here are 10 signs of liver damage that you need to pay attention to: Your eyes and skin turning yellow, which is usually a sign of jaundice. Abdominal swelling and pain are also symptoms of liver damage that you should watch out. Your ankles and legs begin to swell.. Your urine becomes dark yellow in color. There can be many reasons for dark yellow urine, but it can also be a sign of liver damage. Excessively itchy skin is also a symptom of liver damage. Loss of appetite. Getting bruises easily as your liver fails to create proteins needed for blood clotting. Vomiting and nausea for no reason. Blood in the stool or pale stool. Chronic fatigue. How is liver damage diagnosed? In order to get started with the liver damage treatment, it is very important to diagnose the symptoms of liver damage correctly. In order to start the diagnoses, your doctor will start with a physical examination, followed by requesting details of your health history. Liver function tests, which are blood tests will be done at the initial stage. MRI Scan and CT scan kind of image tests are done. Tissue analysis is also done to get an accurate idea of the problem . How is liver damage treated? The treatment for the liver damage depends on the type and severity of damage. Some stages can be treated with just slight modifications to the diet and lifestyle like weight reduction, no smoking or alcohol. Further stages will require medication and severe condition will need a surgery. If your liver has failed completely, then you will have to go for a liver transplant, which is an expensive and time consuming process. How can liver damage be prevented? Certain changes in your lifestyle can prevent liver damage. You need to stop drinking alcohol or only drink a moderate amount to decrease pressure on your liver. Get vaccinated to prevent getting hepatitis infections. When you are spraying insecticides or other aerosol sprays, make sure that you cover your nose and also make sure to protect your skin. You need to maintain a healthy weight as there are chances of fatty liver damage as well. You should take only medicine that is prescribed to you and make sure that you do not take any medicine in excess or without talking to your doctor.