MERA Cat MVH Skin Control Allergic, 750 g is a specialised MeraVital Cat Health Concept veterinary diet for adult cats with dermatitis, allergies and excessive shedding. The recipe is based on hydrolysed salmon protein and a limited carbohydrate source (rice). It contains no wheat, milk, soy, beef, pork or chicken — the most common food allergens. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and B vitamins support skin and coat.
How hydrolysed protein works
In a food allergy, the immune system wrongly treats a food protein as a threat, causing itching and skin inflammation. In hydrolysed protein, the molecules are broken into small fragments that the immune system barely recognises. That's why hydrolysates are the basis of most hypoallergenic diets. MeraVital Skin Control has two sources of hydrolysed salmon: hydrolysed salmon and dried salmon hydrolysate. A limited ingredient list makes it easier to pin down the cause of an allergy: the fewer the components, the easier it is to tell what the cat is reacting to.
Indications
The manufacturer lists the following indications: dermatitis, food allergy, atopic dermatitis, chronic skin inflammation and excessive shedding. Note that itching in cats isn't always caused by food. The most common cause is flea allergy, so parasites must be ruled out before starting a diet; see fleas in cats: how to get rid of them.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | vet diet, adult cats |
| Protein | hydrolysed salmon |
| Carbohydrates | rice |
| Protein / fat | 38% / 18% |
| Fibre / ash | 5.5% / 7% |
| Energy | 410 kcal/100 g |
| Pack | 750 g |
Pros
- Hydrolysed salmon. The protein the immune system reacts to least.
- Free from the main allergens. No chicken, beef, pork, wheat, milk or soy.
- A short ingredient list. Easy to check what your cat is eating.
- An unusual fat. Horse fat instead of poultry fat — a new source for most cats.
- For skin and coat. Omega-3 and omega-6 from linseed and fish, plus B vitamins.
- Digestion. Psyllium, beet pulp and prebiotics.
Cons
- Vet prescription only. The vet decides the amount and duration.
- High in calories. 410 kcal/100 g — portions must be weighed precisely.
- Contains yeast. Not suitable for the rare cats that react to yeast.
- An error in the product filters. They say "duck/potato", but the description and ingredients show salmon and rice.
How to run the diet
A diagnostic diet only works if the cat eats nothing else. Vets usually prescribe it for 6–8 weeks, during which no treats, wet food, table scraps or even flavoured vitamins are allowed. Switch the cat gradually over 5–7 days. If symptoms clear up, the vet may suggest a challenge test — reintroducing the old protein to check the reaction. The vet sets the portion; a scale scoop such as the Digital Spoon Scale makes measuring easy.
Allergies in cats: what else to consider
Besides food, parasites, stress and household chemicals affect the skin. Treat your cat against fleas regularly — products are in the parasite control section. If you need an alternative in the same category, see our review of Brit Veterinary Diet Hypoallergenic Cat. How to read ingredient lists is explained in how to read a pet food label.
Who it suits
Adult cats with a confirmed or suspected food allergy, atopic dermatitis, chronic skin inflammation or heavy shedding — on a vet's recommendation. Other therapeutic foods are in the veterinary diets for cats section.
Verdict
MeraVital Cat Skin Control Allergic is a short-ingredient hypoallergenic diet based on hydrolysed salmon and rice, free from chicken, wheat, milk and soy. It's a good tool for an elimination diet and skin support. Use it as prescribed by a vet, strictly without other foods and with precise portions, as it's calorie-dense.
FAQ
What protein is in the diet?
Hydrolysed salmon and dried salmon hydrolysate.
Does it contain chicken?
No, and it also contains no wheat, milk, soy, beef or pork.
Can it be fed without a vet?
It's a veterinary diet: the vet decides the amount and duration.
How long does an elimination diet last?
Usually 6–8 weeks; the vet sets the exact period.
Can treats be given during the diet?
No, otherwise the result won't be reliable.
How many calories does it have?
410 kcal per 100 g.
Why do the filters say duck and potato?
That's an error in the specifications; the description and ingredients show salmon and rice.
