Prescription diets are specially crafted to meet specific health needs. For instance, renal diets have reduced sodium to support kidney function, hydrolyzed protein diets minimize allergic reactions, and urinary diets adjust mineral levels and pH to prevent crystals. These diets are based on extensive research to ensure balanced nutrition and effective management of medical conditions.
Veterinary oversight is essential for using prescription diets safely and effectively. Veterinarians diagnose conditions, choose appropriate diets, and monitor progress to prevent harm and optimize health outcomes. They ensure diets come from reputable sources and are integrated into a comprehensive care plan. This approach ensures that prescription diets effectively support the pet’s well-being.
Prescription diets are recommended for managing specific chronic conditions. They should be maintained as the sole source of nutrition to maximize benefits, though additional treatments may be necessary.
Types of Prescription Diets
Allergy/Hydrolyzed Diets:
Allergy or hydrolyzed diets use proteins that are broken down into smaller fragments to reduce allergenic potential, making them ideal for pets with food allergies or intolerances. These diets help manage symptoms such as itching, gastrointestinal upset, and skin issues.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA
- Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein
Dental Diets:
Dental diets help reduce plaque and tartar buildup through specially designed kibble textures that promote mechanical cleaning of the teeth. They are suitable for pets with dental issues or those needing to maintain oral health.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet t/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets DH
- Royal Canin Dental
Gastrointestinal Diets:
Gastrointestinal diets are formulated to support digestive health. They typically include easily digestible ingredients and added fiber to manage gastrointestinal disorders such as chronic vomiting, diarrhea, or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN
- Royal Canin Gastrointestinal
Hyperthyroidism Diets:
Hyperthyroidism diets support pets with thyroid imbalances, often containing controlled levels of iodine to manage conditions like hyperthyroidism. These diets are recommended for pets diagnosed with thyroid disorders.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet y/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF
- Royal Canin Thyroid Support
Oncology Diets:
Oncology diets are designed to support pets undergoing cancer treatment. They often have elevated levels of specific nutrients, such as antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, to help manage cancer-related symptoms and support overall health.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet n/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NC
- Royal Canin Oncology
Renal Diets:
Renal diets are formulated with reduced sodium, phosphorus, and protein to help manage kidney disease. These diets support kidney function and help reduce the buildup of toxins in the blood.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF
- Royal Canin Renal Support
Thyroid Diets:
Thyroid diets are designed to support pets with thyroid imbalances, often containing controlled levels of iodine to manage hyperthyroidism. These diets are recommended for pets diagnosed with thyroid disorders.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet y/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF
- Royal Canin Thyroid Support
Urinary Diets:
Urinary diets are designed to dissolve urinary crystals and stones. They contain specific levels of minerals and adjusted pH levels to prevent crystal formation and are suitable for pets with urinary tract disorders, including struvite or calcium oxalate crystals.
- Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d
- Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets UR
- Royal Canin Urinary SO