Here's why:
* Diagnosis is crucial: A vet can perform tests to confirm a chicken allergy and determine the severity.
* Other allergens: Your cat may be allergic to other ingredients in "free food" like grains, fish, or dairy.
* Nutritional needs: Free food may not provide the balanced nutrition your cat needs, especially if she's sensitive to multiple ingredients.
* Safety: Some "free food" may contain ingredients that are toxic to cats.
Instead of free food, your vet may recommend:
* Prescription hypoallergenic diet: These diets are specifically formulated for cats with allergies and contain limited, carefully selected ingredients.
* Hydrolyzed protein diets: Proteins are broken down into smaller molecules, making them less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
* Novel protein diets: These diets contain protein sources your cat has likely never eaten before, like venison or duck.
It's never safe to experiment with your cat's diet without professional guidance. Talk to your veterinarian to develop the best dietary plan for your allergic cat.