Food allergy (FA) is defined as “all immune-mediated reactions following food intake,” in
contrast with food intolerance (FI), which is non-immune-mediated. Impairment of the
mucosal barrier and loss of oral tolerance are risk factors for the development of FA. Type I,
III, and IV hypersensitivity reactions are the most likely immunologic mechanisms. Food
allergens are (glyco-) proteins with a molecular weight from 10–70 kDa and are resistant to
treatment with heat, acid, and proteases. The exact prevalence of FA in dogs and cats …

The history and various clinical presentations of dogs and cats with food allergy, the
methods used to establish the diagnosis, and the long-term management of the patient, are
reviewed. The emphasis of this review is on the dermatological signs of food allergy in dogs
and cats.