cat food allergies

Question
Hi! I've been told by two vets that my Maine Coon Reilly, who is 10 years old, is allergic to poultry protein. Her reactions are normally in the form of bumps on her skin and ears. Today I noticed that her bottom lip is swollen and I suspect she ate some dog food. She's eating and drinking normally and still grooms herself with no sign of it bothering her. Is it possible this is an allergic reaction as well?

Answer
Thanks for the question.  Certainly food allergies could be a concern, however many cats can also present the same with environmental allergies.  You may ask you vet about various trials of different foods, usually an 8-10 week strict trial to find exactly what protein or carbohydrate source your cat may be allergic.  Pending this test you may also ask about various therapies for environmental allergies (antihistamines, etc).