A food allergy is a reaction to food that involves the body’s immune system. It is usually always a protein particle in the food that is responsible for reactions. Your pet may itch, lick and chew at areas of skin such as paws, abdomen, groin, neck or ears. The itching is not usually seasonal and may sometimes involve chronic ear infections. Your pet may also have some gastrointestinal signs or a “sensitive stomach” with chronic vomiting, diarrhoea, burping or frequent bowel movements. If your vet has decided to do a food or elimination trial they will have a discussion with you about what foods your pet has previously eaten and what diet they should transition to. The diet selected must contain a “novel” protein and carbohydrate source meaning that they have not eaten this source in the past. Many over the counter diets may claim to be hypoallergenic or good for sensitive skin. It is important to realise these claims have no official meaning and many of these diets have inappropriate ingredients so it’s crucial to pick a diet with your vet that is specific to your pet’s needs. Commercial prescription diets are available for food allergy trials such as Hills Z/d Ultra or Royal Canin Hypoallergenic or Anallergenic. These diets contain consistent ingredients and are excellent quality. These are only available through vet hospitals and come in wet and dry food forms. Some pets will not eat the prescription diets, so a homemade diet may need to be used. These diets must contain a novel protein source and carbohydrate. A homemade diet must NOT be fed long term as they are not a balanced diet however they are appropriate for a short-term food trial. Examples of an appropriate home cooked diet are (combine one from each column). PROTEINCARBOHYDRATETunaSweet PotatoSalmonPumpkinRabbitOatsKangarooBarleyChick peasQuinoaWhite fishPotato Remember the food you select must be something they have never had before. Once you have selected the food you will be using for the trial, gra