What Are Novel Proteins in Pet Food? 

If your dog or cat has been scratching more than usual, turning their nose up at dinner, or dealing with upset tummies, you might be wondering if their food could be the culprit. One solution that’s growing in popularity is the novel protein diet. No, it’s not just the latest pet food trend.

Novel proteins offer a fresh approach to helping manage food allergies and intolerances, helping sensitive pets feel their best. Learn about what they are, why they matter, and how to know if they’re right for your furry friend with Paw Pantry.

What Is a Novel Protein?

A novel protein is simply a protein source your pet hasn’t eaten before. Think of it as a culinary curveball—something new and different for their system. Most standard pet foods use proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb, so switching things up with rabbit, venison, or kangaroo can sometimes do wonders, especially for pets with sensitivities.

These proteins are less likely to set off immune responses because they’re unfamiliar to your pet’s body. That unfamiliarity? That’s exactly what makes them so useful for pets dealing with food-related troubles.

Common Novel Proteins Include:

• Rabbit
  

• Venison
  

• Duck
  

• Kangaroo
  

• Crocodile or ostrich (for the truly adventurous)
  

• Novel fish like barramundi
  

If your pet’s diet feels like it could use a refresh, a novel protein might just be the ticket.

How Novel Proteins Can Help With Food Allergies

Food Allergy vs. Intolerance: What's the Difference?

Let’s get our terms straight:

• Allergies are immune responses—your pet’s body reacts to something it sees as a threat.
  

• Intolerances are more like digestive disagreements—less dramatic, but still uncomfortable.
  

Whether it’s itchy paws, red ears, recurring diarrhoea or vomiting, food reactions can really make your pet uncomfortable.

Why Novel Proteins Work

Many food allergies in pets come from overexposure. Your dog’s been eating chicken-based kibble for years? That could be the problem. By introducing a new, never-before-seen protein, the immune system doesn’t jump to conclusions. It gives your pet a break—and often, relief.

This is why vets often recommend novel proteins as part of an elimination diet. It helps narrow down exactly what’s causing the trouble, while keeping your pet full and happy.

Signs Your Pet Might Need a Novel Protein Diet:

• Persistent scratching or licking
  

• Skin inflammation or red patches
  

• Recurring ear infections
  

• Upset stomach (gas, diarrhoea, vomiting)
  

• Poor coat condition
  

If any of this sounds familiar, a new protein source might help hit the reset button on your pet’s health.

What Novel Proteins Are Out There?

Let’s take a stroll through the wild side of the protein aisle:

Popular and Proven Options

• Rabbit – Super lean and gentle on the tummy. A great go-to for sensitive pets.
  

• Venison – High in iron and B vitamins, venison is a tasty, nutrient-dense option.
  

• Kangaroo – Naturally lean, packed with protein, and a staple in Aussie pet diets.
  

• Duck – Rich in essential fatty acids to help keep coats shiny and skin happy.
  

More Uncommon (But Equally Paw-some) Proteins

• Crocodile or ostrich – A little exotic, but highly digestible and well-tolerated.
  

• Barramundi and other fish – Omega-3 rich and gentle on the stomach.
  

The key is quality sourcing. At Paw Pantry, our proteins are locally sourced whenever possible, carefully selected, and always real meat—no mystery meals here.

How to Choose a Novel Protein Diet (for Dogs & Cats)

For Dogs

Got a pup who’s incessantly itching or dealing with a sensitive tummy? Novel protein diets are often a great solution. Many also come grain-free, perfect for dogs who need a simpler, more tailored approach.

• Helps with skin flare-ups, hot spots, and chronic itching
  

• Supports digestive health in dogs prone to diarrhoea or bloating
  

• Works well in combination with limited ingredient or grain-free diets
  
  

Paw-lease remember: not all grain-free diets are created equal. Look for options with fresh ingredients, no refined grains, and balanced nutrients—like our Hypro Premium novel protein options, made without artificial colours or flavours.

For Cats

Cats are a little fussier (let’s be honest, they know they’re top tier), but novel proteins can help them too, particularly those dealing with itchy skin, diarrhoea, or recurring vomiting.

• Cats need high-quality animal protein, no matter what
  

• Duck, rabbit, and novel fish are great alternatives for sensitive felines
  

• Always transition slowly—cats don’t like sudden surprises in their food bowl
  

For both dogs and cats, a gradual switch is best. Mix the new food with their old one over 7–10 days to prevent digestive drama.

Work With Your Vet for the Best Results

Before diving into any dietary change, especially if your pet is showing signs of allergies, it’s best to chat with your vet. They can guide you through:

• Elimination diets to identify triggers
  

• Food trials to confirm allergies or intolerances
  

• Choosing between prescription diets and high-quality commercial options
  

Vet guidance ensures your pet’s nutritional needs are still being met, even while you’re testing new proteins.

A Natural Solution for Sensitive Pets

When it comes to managing food allergies or sensitivities, novel protein diets offer a smart, natural way to reduce inflammation, ease digestion, and get your pet back to their happy, tail-wagging (or purring) self.

By cutting out common allergens and introducing new, nutritious protein sources, you can help support your pet’s immune system and digestive health—without compromising on taste or quality.

Time to Switch Things Up?

Explore Paw Pantry’s range of nutritious pet foods, including carefully crafted recipes with novel proteins and fresh, real ingredients. Whether your pet needs a reset or just something new in their bowl, we’ve got them covered, tail to tummy.

Because at the end of the day, their health is what makes life fur-ever better.