What Is Prescription Food for Pets?
What is a veterinary diet, and how do they work?
This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian,
You've heard of prescription drugs, but have you heard of prescription food? The idea of a pet prescription diet to treat a serious medical condition was first invented in the 1930s, when a veterinarian named Dr. Mark Morris designed a diet for a dog with kidney disease, and went on to create Hills Prescription Diet. Nowadays, there are multiple brands that produce different varieties for a wide range of health conditions.
Note: for the purpose of this article, both the terms 'prescription' and 'veterinary' are used to describe vet-prescribed food, while 'retail' is used to describe food that does not require a veterinary recommendation.
Prescription vs Retail Diets: What's the Difference?
You may have noticed there are pet foods labelled for a health condition that require a veterinary recommendation and are sold in vet clinics ('veterinary' diets), while some other diets seem to treat the same condition but don't require a veterinary recommendation and sold in pet stores ('retail' diets). To further confuse us, one brand may even have a retail line and a veterinary line - for instance, Hills Science Diet provides non-veterinary diets available from pet stores, while Hills Prescription Diet provides veterinary diets that require a veterinary prescription.
Typically, the difference lies in the approach:
Retail diets are preventative - they aim to prevent a condition from developing. This approach may be suitable if your pet is healthy but likely to develop certain health conditions, for reasons such as a previous injury, family history, or breed predisposition. Retail diets tend to contain relevent health-supporting ingredients, but in lower concentrations than a veterinary diet.
Veterinary diets are restorative - they aim to provide a 'treatment' or 'cure' for an established condition. This approach may be needed if your pet is already suffering from a medical issue. Veterinary diets are often used alongside veterinary prescribed drugs or treatments. Compared to retail diets, veterinary diets tend to contain stronger concentrations of relevant ingredients.
In Australia, veterinary diets are available from Hills Prescription Diet, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet and Diamond Care RX.
How do Veterinary / Prescription Diets Work?
The way veterinary diets work depends on the specific formula and the condition they are treating. To help categorise and delve deeper into veterinary diets, I have separated them into the particular health conditions they address. Correlating retail diets (and some extra tips!) are also mentioned under each health condition.
Skip to a Condition:
Food Allergies and Intollerences
Gastrointestinal Issues (Pancreatitis / IBD)
Urinary Disease (FLUTD / Cystitis)
Anxiety
A serious condition and more common than you might think, anxiety affects pet dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes. One out of every six dogs may suffer from canine anxiety, which may present in the form of separation anxiety, noise and storm phobias, or other problem behaviours such as hyperactivity or destructive habits. Cats are very prone to anxiety and it can present in a number of different ways, particularly urinary issues such as cystitis or urine spraying, aggression, excessive vocalising, over-grooming and hair loss, humping, and reduced appetite.
How to manage anxiety in pets
The treatment of anxiety in both cats and dogs often requires a multimodal approach.
1. Training - The first and foremost treatment for most forms of anxiety is proper training. This may vary depending on your pet and their specific form of anxiety, so we highly recommend consulting with your vet for advice on training.
2. Anxiety supplements - Calming supplements that contain casein or L-tryptophan can be very effective. Zylkene or PAW Blackmores Complete Calm are great options. Zylkene is an easy-to-give capsule containing a natural product derived from casein, a protein found in milk that is known for calming newborns during breastfeeding.
3. Pheromone products - For dogs, pheromone product Adaptil is available in a convenient spray. For cats, feline pheromone diffuser Feliway is notoriously effective, often used in vet clinics and cat hospitals all over the world. For more information, see Your Guide to Using Feliway.
4. Anxiety diets - food infused with L-tryptophan such as Hills Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress or hydrolysed milk or fish protein such as Royal Canin Calm and Relax Care can work wonders on anxious pets. Read more about these and how they work below.
Veterinary & Retail Diets for Anxiety
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Calm
|
⢠Contains hydrolysed milk protein, which is known for calming newborns during breastfeeding and also found in Zylkene.
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Dry dog formula: Rice, dehydrated poultry protein, maize, wheat flour, animal fats, hydrolysed animal proteins, chicory pulp, dehydrated pork protein*, minerals, wheat gluten*, soya oil, fish oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides (0.49%), hydrolysed milk protein**, borage oil, marigold extract (source of lutein) |
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Retail Diet
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⢠Contains hydrolysed fish protein, a natural supplement to reduce stress in dogs. |
Medium dry dog formula: Dehydrated poultry protein, maize flour, maize, rice, animal fats, hydrolysed animal proteins, maize gluten, beet pulp, vegetable protein isolate*, fish oil, minerals, vegetable fibres, soya oil, cellulose powder, yeasts and parts thereof, hydrolysed fish protein , hydrolysed yeast (source of manno-oligo-saccharides), marigold extract (source of lutein). |
Hills Prescription Diet c/d Stress
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠A urinary care diet with added stress ingredients. Can be fed to cats with normal urinary function for the anxiety care.
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Dry cat formula: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Pork Flavor, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, L-Lysine, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Potassium Citrate, vitamins, Taurine, DL-Methionine, Dried Hydrolyzed Casein, Iodized Salt, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
For comprehensive guides about anxiety management, see our articles Separation Anxiety in Dogs, How to Reduce Anxiety in Cats, How to Reduce Stress in Multi-Cat Households and Helping Pandemic Pets Adjust to Changing Routines.
Arthritis and Joint Care
Arthritis, scientifically referred to as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a degenerative, progressive, and irreversible condition of the joints. While some degree of inflammation does occur, arthritis in dogs is also characterised by a loss of the cartilage (the soft structural component that overlies and protects the bone) and the formation of 'osteophytes' which are new pieces of bone laid down in an effort to protect the joint surface. Symptoms of Arthritis include lameness or limping which worsens after strenuous exercise, stiffness especially after rest, slow to rise from sitting or lying, reluctance to use stairs or jump into the car, and avoiding sitting or lying on hard surfaces.
The best ways to manage arthritis include:
1. Daily joint maintenance supplements such as 4cyte, Glyde, or Paw Blackmores Osteosupport. These supplements tend to contain omega fatty acids from marine sources, glucosamine and chondroitin.
2. A joint care diet - 'joint care' diets are infused with similar ingredients to the joint care supplements listed above. These ingredients include omega fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin. Diet options in this category include retail diets (such as Hills Science Diet Mobility and Royal Canin Joint Care) for pets that don't currently have arthritis but are at risk of developing it, and veterinary joint care diets (such as Hills Prescription Mobility diets and Royal Canin Veterinary Mobility Support, which are ideal for pets that are curently suffering from arthritis and need active treatment.
3. Medication - Of course, many cases of osteoarthritis require proper medication from your vet. Popular medications for arthritis pain include non-steroidal antiinflammatories (eg. Meloxicam or Carprofen), corticosteroids (eg. Prednisone), Gabapentin, and monthly injections with disease modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) such as Catrophen or Zydax.
4. Weight management - Keeping your pet slim with a controlled diet and regular exercise is vital for preventing the signs of arthritis.
5. Physiotherapy - altered non-weightbearing excercise regimes are required for many pets with joint issues. Swimming and water therapy is particularly beneficial if your pet needs to lose weight or build up muscle mass around problem joints.
Veterinary & Retail Joint Care Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠High in omega fatty acids (from Fish oil)
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Dry dog formula: Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Flaxseed, Chicken Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Flavor, Fish Oil, Powdered Cellulose, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Iodized Salt, vitamins, L-Threonine, minerals, Taurine, L-Tryptophan, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Mixed Tocopherols, L-Carnitine, Natural Flavors, Chondroitin Sulfate, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet Metabolic + Mobility
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠A weight control care diet with added joint support ingredients.
|
Dry dog formula: Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Flaxseed, Soybean Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Powdered Cellulose, Wheat Gluten, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Liver Flavor, Oat Fiber, Fish Oil, Coconut Oil, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, DL-Methionine, Carrots, Iodized Salt, Lipoic Acid, vitamins, Choline Chloride, L-Lysine, Taurine, minerals, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet KD + Mobility
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠A kidney care diet suitable for renal failure, with added joint support ingredients.
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Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Flaxseed, Chicken Fat, Chicken, Dried Beet Pulp, Powdered Cellulose, Soy Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor, Fish Oil, Egg Product, Pork Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Calcium Carbonate, Soybean Oil, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Lipoic Acid, Potassium Citrate, DL-Methionine, L-Threonine, Iodized Salt, vitamins, Taurine, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, L-Carnitine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Magnesium Oxide, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
Royal Canin Mobility Support C2P Plus
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠C2P+ complex composed of turmeric extract, green tea polyphenols & hydrolysed collagen
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Dry dog formula: Maize flour, dehydrated poultry protein, maize, rice, wheat, animal fats, hydrolysed animal proteins, maize gluten, vegetable fibres, wheat gluten, fish oil, beet pulp, minerals, hydrolysed collagen (1.6%), marigold extract (source of lutein) |
Hills Prescription Diet Feline KD + Mobility
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠A kidney care diet suitable for renal failure, with added joint support ingredients.
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Dry cat formula: Brewers Rice, Chicken, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Dried Beet Pulp, Egg Product, Soy Protein Isolate, Fish Oil, Chicken Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Potassium Citrate, Flaxseed, Calcium Sulfate, L-Arginine, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Calcium Carbonate, L-Lysine, Taurine, L-Threonine, vitamins, Iodized Salt, L-Tryptophan, L-Carnitine, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
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Retail Diet
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⢠Contains omega fatty acids (from Fish oil and soya oil)
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Maxi dry dog formula: maize, dehydrated poultry protein, wheat, animal fats, vegetable fibres, vegetable protein isolate, maize flour, rice, hydrolysed animal proteins, maize gluten, beet pulp, fish oil, yeasts and parts thereof, minerals, soya oil, hydrolysed collagen (0.84%), marigold extract (source of lutein), hydrolysed cartilage (source of chondroitin). |
Hills Science Diet Healthy Mobility
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Retail Diet
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⢠Contains omega fatty acids (from Soybean Oil and Fish oil)
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Small dry dog formula: Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Sorghum, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Soybean Meal, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Flavour, Soybean Oil, Corn Gluten Meal, Fish Oil, Flaxseed, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Iodized Salt, Calcium Carbonate, vitamins, minerals, Taurine, L-Lysine, Oat Fiber, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas. |
For more information, see our complete guide on Arthritis Care for Dogs and Arthritis in Cats.
Dental Disease
For a preventative illness, dental disease is far too common. Around 80% of dogs and cats over the age of three years have some degree of dental disease. Left untreated, dental disease remains a constant source of pain and inflammation, which can impact other organs in the body such as kidney, heart and liver.
Ways to improve dental care for pets include:
1. Regular tooth brushing
2. Feeding a vet-recommended dental diet or retail dental diet. The latter is only suitable for prevention.
3. Dental dog and cat treats (in moderation!) such as Greenies or Whimzees
4. Raw bones* and other natural firm chews.
* raw bones are not recommended for every pet. Find out more information in our article Are Raw Bones Safe for Dogs?
Veterinary & Retail Dental Care Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Unique fibre complex scrubs away plaque
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Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Fat, Soybean Mill Run, Egg Product, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Sulfate, Iodized Salt, L-Lysine, vitamins, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, minerals, Dicalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene. |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Dental
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Ideal kibble shape, size and texture
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Dry dog formula: Rice, dehydrated poultry protein, maize, animal fats, wheat gluten, beet pulp, vegetable fibres, hydrolysed animal proteins, minerals, fish oil, yeasts products, fructo-oligo-saccharides, soya oil, butyric acid salt, glucosamine from fermentation, marigold extract (source of lutein), hydrolysed cartilage (source of chondroitin) |
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⢠Unique kibble shape, size, and texture with interlocking fibre technology |
Dry dog formula: Chicken, Whole Grain Wheat, Powdered Cellulose, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Liver Flavor, Soybean Mill Run, Pork Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Fish Oil, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, vitamins, Dicalcium Phosphate, minerals, Taurine, Oat Fiber, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas. |
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Royal Canin Oral Care / Dental Care
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Retail Diet
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⢠Unique kibble shape, size, and texture
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Dry dog formula: maize flour, dehydrated poultry protein, rice, animal fats, hydrolysed animal proteins, beet pulp, vegetable fibres, vitamins and minerals, cellulose powder |
Advance Triple Action Dental Care
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Retail Diet
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⢠Sodium polyphosphates bind calcium in saliva to reduce tartar formation
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Dry dog formula: Chicken Meal; Rice; Sorghum; Rice Flour; Chicken Fat; Natural Flavour (Chicken); Dried Beet Pulp, Turkey Meal; Sunflower Oil, Vitamins and Minerals; Salt; Amino Acids (incl. Arginine, Taurine and Methionine), Inulin, Sodium Tripolyphosphate; Antioxidants; Green Lipped Mussel Powder; Plant Extract |
Read more in our articles Dental Care for Dogs and Dental Care for Cats.
Diabetes
Nutrition is an important aspect for the management of diabetic dogs and cats. For dogs, the timing of the meals is essential as it can have an effect on blood glucose levels, although many dogs do not require a prescription diet. For cats, a diet high in protein and relatively low in carbohydrates is essential as it can lower the requirement of insulin - therefore, most vets recommend a prescription diet for diabetic cats.
Some tips for feeding a diabetic pet are:
- Feed your pet at the same time each day, coinciding with insulin
- Avoid changing the diet
- Feed dry food diets that contain good quality protein, high in fibre and complex carbohydrates and moderate to low fat.
Your treating veterinarian will be able to make a diet recommendation that will best suit your diabetic pet. As some pets are overweight at the time of diagnosis, your vet may also discuss a weight loss plan. There are many prescription diets that are designed to help aid in the management diabetic dogs and cats - but please note not all prescription diets are suitable for all diabetic pets.
Veterinary & Retail Diets for Diabetes
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Diabetes management diet that also helps promote weight loss
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Dry cat formula: Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Pork Fat, Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten, Powdered Cellulose, Pork Protein Isolate, Chicken Liver Flavor, L-Lysine, Whole Grain Corn, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, vitamins, Taurine, Calcium Sulfate, DL-Methionine, minerals, L-Arginine, L-Carnitine, L-Threonine, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene |
Hills Prescription Diet W/D Multi-Benefit
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠A diet designed to manage multiple conditions that respond to fibre - weight & glucose management, digestive issues, and urinary health
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Dry dog formula: Whole Grain Wheat, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Pork Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, Caramel color, Flaxseed, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Glyceryl Monostearate, Potassium Citrate, Iodized Salt, L-Lysine, vitamins, L-Tryptophan, Calcium Carbonate, DL-Methionine, minerals, Taurine, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene. |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Diabetic
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⢠High protein
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Dry cat formula: Dehydrated poultry protein, barley, wheat gluten, maize gluten, soya protein isolate, tapioca, animal fats, hydrolysed animal proteins, vegetable fibres, chicory pulp, minerals, fish oil, psyllium husks and seeds, fructo-oligo-saccharides, soya oil, marigold extract (source of lutein). Sources of carbohydrates: barley, tapioca. |
Read more in our articles Diabetes in Dogs and Diabetes in Cats.
Food Allergies and Intollerences
Pets with food allergies may present with chronically itchy skin, ongoing gastrointestinal issues, or both. Just like humans, pets allergic to a certain food require diet free from that causal ingredient. In cats and dogs, the most common foods that cause allergies are chicken, pork, dairy, beef, soy, and wheat. A diet free from these ingredients can be achieved with a hydrolysed food or a novel protein diet.
Option 1: Hydrolysed diets. Hydrolysed diets have undergone a process called 'hydrolysation' - this involves breaking down the protein structure into its component amino acids. Hydrolysation is a process that reduces the 'allergenicity' of the protein, making it so small that it can't trigger an immune reaction.
A hydrolysed veterinary diet is the gold standard for completing an elimination diet trial. An elimination diet trial may be recommended by your vet to help determine whether your pet has a true food allergy. It involves feeding nothing but the hydrolysed diet for a few weeks, and then introducing one new protein every week to 'test' whether your pet has a reaction.
Option 2: Novel protein diets. A novel protein is a new meat source that your pet hasn't encountered before. Novel protein sources available in pet food include venison, rabbit, bison, kangaroo, and fish. For the purpose of this article, we have not included novel diets below as there are too many to list. To search for a novel diet, take a look at diets made with fish, venison, goat and kangaroo. Always check the ingredients if purchasing a novel protein diet, as some manufacturers may include multiple meat proteins in their recipe.
(Please note that if your pet has itchy skin, food allergies only account for approximately 5-10% of cases - allergies to environmental allergens such as grass or insects are much more common. If this sounds more like your pet, skip ahead to the skin care section.)
Food Allergy Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Completely hydrolysed, preventing a reaction from the immune system
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Dry dog formula: Corn Starch, Hydrolysed Chicken Liver, Soybean Oil, Powdered Cellulose, Calcium Carbonate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Glyceryl Monostearate, Potassium Chloride, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, vitamins, minerals, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene |
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⢠Limited ingredient recipe - free from common allergens (wheat / corn / chicken / pork / beef)
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Dry dog formula: Yellow Peas, Pea Protein, Venison, Green Peas, Soybean Oil, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Liver Flavor, Coconut Oil, Calcium Sulfate, Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Iodized Salt, Glyceryl Monostearate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, vitamins, minerals, Cysteine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene. |
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Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Sensitivity Control
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Novel protein (duck meat) and hydrolysed poultry
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Dry dog formula: Tapioca, dehydrated duck protein, vegetable fibres, hydrolysed poultry proteins, animal fats, beet pulp, fish oil, minerals, soya oil, psyllium husks and seeds, fructo-oligo-saccharides, marigold extract (source of lutein). |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hypoallergenic
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Hydrolysed soy protein, preventing a reaction from the immune system
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Dry cat formula: rice, hydrolysed soya protein isolate, animal fats, vegetable fibres, minerals, beet pulp, hydrolysed poultry liver, soya oil, fish oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides, borage oil, marigold extract (source of lutein). |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Anallergenic
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⢠Completely hydrolysed, preventing a reaction from the immune system
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Dry cat formula: Maize starch, feather hydrolysate with low molecular weight (source of L amino acids and oligopeptides), copra oil, soya oil, vegetable fibres, minerals, animal fat, fish oil, chicory pulp, fructo-oligo-saccharides, maltodextrin, mono - and diglycerides of palmitic and stearic acids esterified with citric acid, dextrose, marigold extract (source of lutein). |
Read more in our articles Food Allergies in Dogs.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Digestive issues, particularly chronic and unresolving cases, are among the most common reasons that cats and dogs are examined at the vet for. Issues such as pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic diarrhoea or gas, and gut microflora disturbances can all be managed with a veterinary gastrointestinal diet. Some pets with a sensitive stomach may experience 'on and off' bouts of chronic mild loose stool or gas, while other may experience less frequent but more severe instances with vomiting - but nonetheless, all pets with stomach issues may benefit from a gastrointestinal diet.
Please note that the below gastrointestinal diets are suitable for different conditions - so we highly suggest consulting with your vet to determine what is the best diet for your pet. Also, some of the veterinary diets in our Food Allergies section may be appropriate for your dog with stomach troubles, but are not listed below.
Gastrointestinal Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Highly digestible formula
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Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Corn, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Egg Product, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver Flavour, Pork Liver Flavour, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Dried Citrus Pulp, Dicalcium Phosphate, Iodized Salt, Fish Oil, Soybean Oil, Pressed Cranberries, vitamins, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavours, Beta Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet I/D Low Fat
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Highly digestible formula, very low in fat (suitable for fat-responsive illnesses such as pancreatitis)
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Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavour, Flaxseed, Chicken Fat, Ground Pecan Shells, Pork Liver Flavour, Lactic Acid, Fish Flavor, Ginger, Dried Beet Pulp, Iodized Salt, Potassium Citrate, Dried Citrus Pulp, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Calcium Sulfate, Dicalcium Phosphate, Glyceryl Monostearate, Pressed Cranberries, vitamins, L-Lysine, Taurine, minerals, Magnesium Oxide, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome
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⢠Highly digestible formula
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Dry cat formula: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Wheat Gluten, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Ground Pecan Shells, Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Liver Flavor, Pea Fiber, Flaxseed, Dried Citrus Pulp, Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Pumpkin, Pressed Cranberries, Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), DL-Methionine, Taurine, vitamins, Psyllium Seed Husk, Calcium Sulfate, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols, Iodized Salt, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Highly digestible formula
|
Dry dog formula: Vegetable fibres, rice, animal fats, dehydrated poultry protein, maize, wheat, maize gluten, dehydrated pork protein, wheat gluten, minerals, hydrolysed poultry liver, beet pulp, soya oil, fish oil, psyllium husks and seeds, yeasts products, hydrolysed animal proteins, fructooligosaccharides (0.5%), hydrolysed yeast (source of mannanoligosaccharides) (0.2%), marigold extract (source of lutein). |
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat
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Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Highly digestible formula, very low in fat (suitable for fat-responsive illnesses such as pancreatitis)
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Dry dog formula: Rice, dehydrated poultry protein, wheat, barley, hydrolysed animal proteins, beet pulp, animal fats, minerals, yeasts products, fish oil, mono- and diglycerides of palmitic and stearic acids esterified with citric acid, psyllium husks and seeds, fructo-oligosaccharides (0.48%), hydrolysed yeast (source of manno-oligo-saccharides) (0.19%), marigold extract (source of lutein).
Hills Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Retail diet
available for cats and dogs in different sizes for medium, small, and mini breeds.
⢠Digestible formula
⢠Vitamin E and Omega fatty acids (from Soybean oil and flaxseed) - help reduce inflammation
⢠Probiotics (beet pulp) to nourish gut microflora
⢠Antioxidant-rich veggies and fruit (apples, broccoli, cranberries)
Dry dog formula: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Yellow Peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Sorghum, Egg Product, Chicken Fat, Soybean Oil, Brown Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Flaxseed, vitamins, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Oat Fiber, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas.
Retail diet
available for cats and dogs in different sizes for medium, small, and mini breeds, as well as a range for seniors.
⢠Digestible formula
⢠Vitamin E and Omega fatty acids (from soybean oil, fish oil and flaxseed)
⢠ActivBiome+, a blend of prebiotics and fibre (ground pecan shells, beet pulp, oats and pumpkin)
⢠Antioxidants for extra immune support
Dry senior dog formula: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Chicken Liver flavour, Pork Liver flavour, Soybean Oil, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Calcium Carbonate, Dried Citrus Pulp, Iodized Salt, Dicalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Pressed Cranberries, vitamins, Pumpkin, Fish Oil, DL-Methionine, minerals, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural flavours, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene.
Royal Canin Digestive Care / Digestive
Retail Diet
available for cats and dogs in wet and dry varieties.
⢠Digestible formula
⢠Vitamin E and Omega fatty acids (from soya oil and fish oil)
⢠Blend of prebiotics and fibre (chicory pulp, psyllium husks and seeds)
⢠Special kibble shape promotes chewing and slower eating
Dry cat formula: Vegetable Protein Isolate*, Wheat Flour, Dehydrated Fish, Rice, Animal Fats, Dehydrated Poultry Protein, Hydrolysed Animal Proteins, Maize Gluten, Maize Flour, Vegetable Fibres, Chicory Pulp, Minerals, Soya Oil, Fish Oil, Fructo-Oligo-Saccharides (0.3%), Psyllium Husks And Seeds (0.2%). *LIP: Protein selected for its very high assimilation.
Advance Sensitive Skin & Digestion
Retail diet
available for cats and dogs in wet & dry varieties.
⢠Digestible formula
⢠Salmon protein source, which is a good source of omega fatty acids
⢠Omega 3 fatty acids from sunflower oil.
⢠Antioxidants and colostrum to support the immune system
Dry dog formula: Salmon Meal; Rice; Sorghum; Rice Flour; Maize Gluten; Chicken Fat; Natural Flavour (Chicken); Dried Beet Pulp; Vitamins and Minerals; Salt; Sunflower Oil; Inulin; Antioxidants; Amino Acids (incl. Methionine); Colostrum.
Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Retail diet
available for cats and dogs in wet & dry varieties.
⢠Digestible formula
⢠Salmon and tuna protein source, which are good sources of omega fatty acids
⢠Low allergen formula - no wheat, corn, soy, chicken or beef
Dry dog formula: Salmon and tuna; oats; vegetable protein concentrate; fish protein meal; brewers rice; wholegrain sorghum; tallow preserved with mixed tocopherols (form of vitamin E); minerals, vitamins and/or amino acids; natural fibres (including beet pulp and chicory); natural antioxidants.
For more information, see our complete guide on Sensitive Stomach Food for Pets.
Heart Disease
Photo: @windrosestar
Heart disease in cats and dogs can be cause a wide range of conditions, but the most common forms diagnosed are Mitral Valve Disease and Dilated Cardiomyopathy Heart disease can cause lead to fluid accumulation in the chest in a condition known as 'congestive heart failure'. Symptoms of congestive heart failure include coughing, lethargy, trouble breathing, collapse, pale or blue gums. Some pets with other types of heart disease may develop fluid in the abdomen or lining of the chest known as the pleural cavity.
Nutrition for managing heart disease? While medication is the mainstay of treatment for heart disease, dogs with severe congestive heart disease may benefit from a low sodium diet. Restricted sodium can help to reduce fluid retention. While a prescription diet is available, your vet may simply recommend a senior diet from a premium brand, as these usually contain reduced sodium compared to regular 'adult' pet foods.
Heart Disease Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Low sodium (salt) levels
|
Wet dog formula: Poultry by-products, rice, pork by-products, fish oil, pork gelatine, powdered cellulose, sunflower oil, minerals, dried tomato pulp, marigold extract (source of lutein), vitamins & minerals. |
For more information, see our complete guides on Heart Disease in Dogs and Heart Disease in Cats.
Kidney Disease
The kidneys perform a number of functions vital to your pet's health; most notably they filter waste products from the bloodstream and help to maintain the correct fluid and electrolyte balance. When enough of the kidney is damaged, it is no longer able to perform these functions, and chronic kidney (renal) disease occurs.
Nutrition for managing kidney disease? The most critical part of treatment for kidney failure is the use of a veterinary prescription diet. These digestible protein and amino acids to reduce the load on the kidneys and therefore reduce the levels of toxic waste products circulating in the blood. They also have reduced levels of phosphorus which can protect the kidneys from further damage and can increase life expectancy, particularly in cats.
Kidney Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Controlled levels of easily digestible protein (egg) to protect the kidneys
|
Dry dog formula: Brown rice, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), egg product, potato protein, tomato pomace, flaxseed, natural flavour, menhaden fish oil, calcium carbonate, potassium citrate, DL-Methionine, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamins & minerals. |
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Reduced phosphorus and sodium to protect kidneys
|
Dry cat formula: Chicken, Brown Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Chicken Fat, Brewers Rice, Pea Protein, Chicken Liver Flavor, Powdered Cellulose, Egg Product, Wheat Gluten, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Citrate, L-Arginine, Calcium Carbonate, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, L-Threonine, vitamins, Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Iodized Salt, minerals, L-Carnitine, L-Tryptophan, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet KD + Mobility
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠A kidney care diet suitable for renal failure, with added joint support ingredients.
|
Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Flaxseed, Chicken Fat, Chicken, Dried Beet Pulp, Powdered Cellulose, Soy Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor, Fish Oil, Egg Product, Pork Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Calcium Carbonate, Soybean Oil, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, Choline Chloride, Lipoic Acid, Potassium Citrate, DL-Methionine, L-Threonine, Iodized Salt, vitamins, Taurine, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, L-Carnitine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Magnesium Oxide, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet Feline KD + Mobility
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠A kidney care diet suitable for renal failure, with added joint support ingredients.
|
Dry cat formula: Brewers Rice, Chicken, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Dried Beet Pulp, Egg Product, Soy Protein Isolate, Fish Oil, Chicken Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Potassium Citrate, Flaxseed, Calcium Sulfate, L-Arginine, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine, Calcium Carbonate, L-Lysine, Taurine, L-Threonine, vitamins, Iodized Salt, L-Tryptophan, L-Carnitine, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Reduced phosphorus to protect kidneys
|
Dry Renal Select dog formula: Rice, maize flour, animal fats, maize, dehydrated poultry protein, hydrolysed animal proteins, beet pulp, wheat gluten**, minerals, fish oil, vegetable fibres, soya oil, butyric acid salt, psyllium husks and seeds, fructo-oligosaccharides, mono- and diglycerides of palmitic and stearic acids esterified with citric acid, marigold extract (source of lutein). ** L.I.P.: protein selected for its very high digestibility |
For more information, see our complete guide to Kidney Disease in Pets.
Liver Disease
The liver is the second largest organ in the body and performs countless vital functions such as the removal of toxic substances from the bloodstream and helping with digestion and clotting. When the liver is no longer working correctly there are widespread negative effects throughout the body. Liver failure can occur from a wide range of diseases - including toxins, cancer, viruses, and congenital conditions.
Nutrition for managing liver disease? While medication (or surgery) is the most important component of liver failure treatment, nutrition can certainly help. The liver has an amazing capacity to heal, and veterinary prescription liver diets are formulated to support the liver during this process. These diets contain controlled levels of high-quality protein to reduce the liver's workload, reduced sodium to control blood pressure, and l-carnitine to assist with fat metabolism. They also contain antioxidants and low levels of copper to minimize copper accumulation in liver cells.
Veterinary Liver Diets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Low copper to minimise accumulation in the liver
|
Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Chicken, Chicken Fat, Egg Product, Soybean Meal, Flaxseed, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dicalcium Phosphate, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, Potassium Chloride, Dried Beet Pulp, Glyceryl Monostearate, Calcium Carbonate, DL-Methionine, vitamins, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, Iodized Salt, L-Lysine, L-Arginine, Taurine, minerals, L-Tryptophan, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Low copper & zinc to reduce accumulation in liver
|
Dry dog formula: Rice, maize, soya protein isolate, animal fats, beet pulp, hydrolysed poultry liver, minerals, soya oil, vegetable fibres, fish oil, fructo-oligosaccharides, marigold extract (source of lutein). Source of proteins: soya protein isolate, hydrolysed poultry liver. |
For more information, see our complete guide to Liver Disease in Dogs.
Obesity and Weight Control
As adorable as pudgy pets may be, obesity is no laughing matter. Being overweight can have serious health consequences for your pet including increased risk of osteoarthritis, diabetes, respiratory problems and anal gland issues. In addition, obese and overweight dogs can suffer from heat intolerance, constant discomfort, and are likely to have a reduced lifespan compared with their lean counterparts.
How to Help Your Pet Lose Weight
1. Weight management diet. The best weight management diet for your pet depends on your pet's current state - veterinary diets are indicated for pets that actively need to lose weight, while retail diets are great for pets who have already lost weight and need to maintain their healthy size. (However, note that many prescription diets are also suitable for weight management when fed at the right daily amount). Our top retail diets include Hills Perfect Weight, Royal Canin Light Care, and Advance Weight Control, while our top veterinary diets include Hills Metabolic and Royal Canin Satiety.
2. Exercise. The best type of exercise varies depending on the pet. Walking and running may suit overweight dogs who are otherwise healthy, but non-weightbearing and cooling exercise such as swimming may be better suited to dogs with secondary joint issues or brachycephalic airways (squished faces). For cats, play is the best form of exercise - games that involves chasing, jumping, hunting, or scavenging are perfect.
3. Reduce treats and table scraps. Remember that for a small pet, one single cube of cheese carries the same calorie content as one and a half hamburgers for an adult human. It's important to be strict, and make sure everyone in the family follows the rules.
Weight Control Diets for Pets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
Hills Prescription Diet Metabolic
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Boosts the metabolism to increase fat loss
|
Dry dog formula: Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Soybean Mill Run , Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Meal, Pea Fiber, Dried Beet Pulp, Dried Tomato Pomace, Chicken Liver Flavor, Pork Fat, Flaxseed, Coconut Oil, Pork Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Powdered Cellulose, DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Carrots, Iodized Salt, vitamins, Lipoic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, minerals, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, L-Carnitine, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene |
Hills Prescription Diet c/d Stress + Metabolic
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠A urinary care diet with added stress ingredients ⢠Boosts the metabolism to increase fat loss
|
Dry cat formula: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Pork Flavor, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, L-Lysine, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Potassium Citrate, vitamins, Taurine, DL-Methionine, Dried Hydrolyzed Casein, Iodized Salt, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet M/D Glucose and Weight Management
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Diabetes management diet that also helps promote weight loss (suitable only for diabetic animals)
|
Dry cat formula: Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Pork Fat, Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten, Powdered Cellulose, Pork Protein Isolate, Chicken Liver Flavor, L-Lysine, Whole Grain Corn, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, vitamins, Taurine, Calcium Sulfate, DL-Methionine, minerals, L-Arginine, L-Carnitine, L-Threonine, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene |
Hills Prescription Diet R/D Weight Loss
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠L-carnitine and Lysine to support lean muscle and promote fat burning
|
Dry dog formula: Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken By-Product Meal, Powdered Cellulose, Soybean Meal, Soybean Mill Run, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Pork Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Caramel color, Flaxseed, Chicken Fat, L-Lysine, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Potassium Citrate, Iodized Salt, vitamins, DL-Methionine, minerals, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavours, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet W/D Weight Loss
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠A diet designed to manage multiple conditions that respond to fibre - weight & glucose management, digestive issues, and urinary health
|
Dry dog formula: Whole Grain Wheat, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Pork Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, Caramel color, Flaxseed, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Glyceryl Monostearate, Potassium Citrate, Iodized Salt, L-Lysine, vitamins, L-Tryptophan, Calcium Carbonate, DL-Methionine, minerals, Taurine, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene. |
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠High in fibre (from vegetable fibres, chicory pulp, psyllium husk & seeds) to promote fullness
|
Dry cat formula: Dehydrated poultry protein, vegetable fibres, tapioca, wheat flour, hydrolysed animal proteins, wheat gluten*, maize gluten, animal fats, chicory pulp, minerals, psyllium husks and seeds, fish oil, marigold extract (source of lutein), glucosamine, hydrolysed cartilage (source of chondroitin), vitamins, minerals. |
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Weight management diet suitable for neutered pets with slower metabolism
|
Dry small dog formula: Barley, maize, dehydrated pork protein, dehydrated poultry protein, wheat flour, vegetable fibres, wheat gluten*, hydrolysed animal proteins, animal fats, minerals, chicory pulp, soy oil, fish oil, psyllium husks and seeds, Fructo- Oligo-Saccharides (FOS), marigold extract (source of lutein), vitamins and minerals |
Diamond Care Weight Management
|
Retail Diet
|
⢠High in fibre (from pea fibre, powdered cellulose and beet pulp)
|
Dry dog formula: Lamb meal, peas, chickpeas, lentils, sweet potatoes, powdered cellulose, potatoes, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), flaxseed, natural flavour, ocean fish meal, menhaden fish oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), DL-methionine, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, L-Carnitine, glucosamine hydrochloride, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, chondroitin sulfate, vitamins and minerals. |
Hills Science Diet Perfect Weight
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Weight maintenance (rather than 'loss') diet
|
Dry dog formula: Chicken, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Pea Fiber, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Oat Fiber, Chicken Liver Flavor, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Coconut Oil, Pork Flavor, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, DL-Methionine, Carrots, Iodized Salt, Lipoic Acid, vitamins, Choline Chloride, minerals, Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, L-Carnitine, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Cranberries, Green Peas. |
|
Retail Diet
|
⢠Weight maintenance (rather than 'loss') diet
|
Dry dog formula: Dehydrated poultry protein, maize, vegetable fibres, barley, wheat, maize gluten, animal fats, rice, hydrolysed animal proteins, beet pulp, cellulose powder, yeasts, fish oil, minerals, fructo-oligo-saccharides, soya oil, hydrolysed yeast (source of manno-oligo-saccharides), vitamins, minerals. |
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Weight maintenance (rather than 'loss') diet
|
Dry dog formula: Rice; Chicken Meal; Sorghum; Dried Beet Pulp; Natural Flavour (Chicken); Chicken Fat; Turkey Meal; Sunflower Oil; Salt; Vitamins and Minerals; Inulin; Green Lipped Mussel Powder; Antioxidants; Amino Acids (incl. Methionine); L-Carnitine. |
Pro Plan Weight Loss Sterilised
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Higher levels of protein
|
Dry dog formula: Chicken (dehydrated chicken, chicken); brewer rice; whole grain wheat; oats; barley; minerals, vitamins, amino acids, organic acids and natural flavours; vitamins and minerals; animal digest; beet pulp; dehydrated fish and fish oil; animal fat preserved with mixedtocopherols (form of vitamin E); cellulose and rice hull; natural antioxidants. |
Please note that there are many other reduced calorie, 'light' or low fat diets from natural brands including Ivory Coat, Savourlife, Black Hawk, and Earthborn Holistic. View all natural 'light' foods here.
Read more about the best diets and exercise tips in our guides Weight Loss Tips for Dogs and Weight Loss Tips for Cats.
Skin Care and Allergies
Itchy skin issues among pets are incredibly common in Australia. Insects, flowering plants, grasses, pollens, and weeds may all cause your pet to itch, scratch, and develop a range of skin conditions. 'Atopy' is the general term used to describe an allergy to things in the environment like pollen, dustmites, grasses, etc.
Skin care diets and topical products are particularly important in breeds prone to skin allergies, including Staffies, French Bulldogs, Cavoodles, Pugs, and German Shepherds.
It's important to determine the cause of your pet's itchy skin prior to commencing with an at-home treatment. For more information on skin allergies in pets, consult our other guides: Why Does My Dog Have Sensitive Itchy Skin? and The Causes of Itching in Cats.
How to manage itchy skin in pets
1. Omega Fatty Acid Oral Supplements are highly beneficial as they strengthen the junction between skin cells and promote a strong skin barrier. Great products include Paw Blackmores Fish Oil or Natural Animal Solutions Omega Oil for dogs, or Hemp Pet Hoki and MCT Oil Blend for cats.
2. A Skin Care Diet - Both retail and veterinary lines are available. These diets tend to contain beneficial skin care ingredients such as fish oil or omega fatty acids, and some are made with a limited allergen formula just in case food allergies play a role. Veterinary skin care diets tend to provide more potent levels of skin support ingredients.
3. Flea Control - did you know that fleas are one of the most common causes of itchy skin? It's therefore vital to maintain flea prevention all year round. Top products for Australia include Nexgard, Bravecto, or Simparica. For cats, we recommend Bravecto / Bravecto Plus, or Revolution / Revolution Plus.
4. Antibacterial shampoos - may be required if your pet suffers from a bacterial or yeast infection in their skin. Your vet may recommend a product like Malaseb or Mediderm Medicated Shampoo.
5. Restorative lotions and oils - veterinary dermal creams can help soothe the skin and create a strong skin barrier. Examples include Natural Animal Solutions Dermal Cream or Dermoscent Biobalm.
Veterinary & Retail Diets for Pets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
Hills Prescription Diet Derm Complete
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Egg is the novel protein source (free from common allergens poultry etc)
|
Dry dog formula: Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Egg Product, Rice Protein Concentrate, Soybean Oil, Flaxseed, Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavour, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Coconut Oil, Lactic Acid, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Lipoic Acid, Iodized Salt, vitamins, Green Peas, Taurine, Apples, Cranberries, Choline Chloride, Carrots, DL-Methionine, Natural Flavors, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Broccoli, Beta-Carotene. |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Skin Support
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Potent source of omega fatty acids from Fish oil and soya oil
|
Dry dog formula: Rice, dehydrated poultry protein, hydrolysed animal proteins, animal fats, vegetable fibres, fish oil, minerals, beet pulp, soya oil, aloe vera extract (0.06%), borage oil, marigold extract (source of lutein). |
|
Retail Diet
|
⢠Hydrolysed salmon as the single protein source
|
Dry dog formula: Peas, pea flour, hydrolyzed salmon, sunflower oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), flaxseed, natural salmon flavour, tomato pomace, salmon oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, DL-Methionine, choline chloride, taurine, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamins and minerals. |
Hills Sensitive Skin & Stomach
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Vitamin E and Omega fatty acids (from Soybean oil and flaxseed)
|
Dry dog formula: Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Yellow Peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Sorghum, Egg Product, Chicken Fat, Soybean Oil, Brown Rice, Dried Beet Pulp, Chicken Liver Flavor, Lactic Acid, Pork Liver Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Flaxseed, vitamins, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Oat Fiber, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas. |
Royal Canin Dermacomfort / Hair & Skin
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Low allergen formula with hydrolysed protein (in case food allergies play a role)
|
Dry maxi dog formula: rice, wheat gluten*, wheat, animal fats, maize gluten, maize, husked oats, minerals, hydrolysed poultry liver , soya oil, beet pulp, fish oil (source of EPA and DHA), flax seeds (source of omega 3), fructo-oligo-saccharides, borage oil (source of gamma-linolenic acid), marigold extract (source of lutein), vitamins & minerals. * L.I.P. : protein selected for its very high digestibility |
Advance Sensitive Skin & Digestion
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Salmon protein source, which is a good source of omega fatty acids
|
Dry dog formula: Salmon Meal; Rice; Sorghum; Rice Flour; Maize Gluten; Chicken Fat; Natural Flavour (Chicken); Dried Beet Pulp; Vitamins and Minerals; Salt; Sunflower Oil; Inulin; Antioxidants; Amino Acids (incl. Methionine); Colostrum. |
Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
|
Retail diet
|
⢠Salmon and tuna protein source, which are good sources of omega fatty acids
|
Dry dog formula: Salmon and tuna; oats; vegetable protein concentrate; fish protein meal; brewers rice; wholegrain sorghum; tallow preserved with mixed tocopherols (form of vitamin E); minerals, vitamins and/or amino acids; natural fibres (including beet pulp and chicory); natural antioxidants. |
Read more in our articles What is the Best Dog Food For Skin Allergies?.
Thyroid Disease
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck which produces thyroxine hormone and helps maintain body temperature, metabolism, blood pressure, heart rate, and gastrointestinal function. An underactive thyroid results in hypothyroidism, whereas an overactive thyroid results in hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a common condition in dogs, but a special diet is not needed. On the other side of the coin, hyperthyroidism is a common condition in cats and a special thyroid diet can sometimes be used as a treatment. Therefore, only hyperthyroidism is discussed below.
How is Hyperthyroidism treated?
There are a few treatment options for Hyperthyroidism in cats and your veterinarian will usually suggest a treatment that works best for your cat. Options generally include:
1. Radiotherapy - an effective long term curative treatment for most cats. This involves an injection with radioactive iodine, and is usually done at a specialist veterinary centre.
2. Medication - this involves daily dosing of anti-thyroid medication, in a pill or paste form. This is also effective but must be maintained for life.
3. Surgery - Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is a procedure done under a general anesthetic and is also curative, meaning that no medication is required long-term.
4. Dietary management - an alternative to medication, surgery, or radiotherapy (ie, NOT to be used in conjunction with these treatments). The principal behind dietary therapy is that because iodine is converted into thyroxine hormone, a restricted iodine diet means the overactive thyroid is not able to overproduce thyroxine. Hill's Prescription Diet Y/D limits the amount of iodine. Please note that if your cat is on an iodine-restricted diet, they cannot eat any other foods and treats (this includes hunting and scavenging!), and they will need to be on this diet lifelong.
Thyroid Diets for Pets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Only suitable for hyperthyroidism in cats
|
Dry formula: Corn Gluten Meal, Pork Fat, Whole Grain Corn, Soybean Mill Run, Egg Product, Chicken Liver Flavour, L-Lysine, Potassium Citrate, Lactic Acid, Dicalcium Phosphate, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Sulfate, DL-Methionine, Taurine, L-Tryptophan, Brewers Dried Yeast, vitamins, minerals, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene |
Read more in our article Hyperthyroidism in Cats.
Urinary Disease (FLUTD / Cystitis)
Urinary problems are a very common presenting complaint in veterinary clinics. Urinary issues commonly seen in dogs and cats include urinary infections, idiopathic cystitis, crystalluria and uroliths (the formation of crystals and stones), and urethral blockage. Urinary disease can become a medical emergency if the urethra is blocked.
Diets for urinary disease are usually 'preventative' and suitable for to help prevent urinary disease in pets who have experienced it in the past, or to prevent it occuring in pets who might be prone due to breed dispositions. However, some prescription diets can be used as an active treatment to help dissolve bladder stones.
DID YOU KNOW? Never buy a prescription urinary diet unless your vet has recommended it after testing your cat's urine. This is because different diets are specifically designed to treat different types of stones. For example, Hills Prescription Diet U/D is only suitable for treating conditions caused by oxalate or cysteine stones, and may actually make other conditions (for example, cystitis associated with struvite stones) worse.
How to Prevent Urinary Disease
1. Encourage water intake - Drinking more water means that more water passes through the kidneys and bladder, which dilutes the urine and reduces crystal and stone formation. Water fountains for pets are a great way to encourage your pet to drink more.
2. Feed wet food as part of your pet's diet - this is another way of increasing your pet's water intake! Wet foods generally contain around 60-80% water, whereas dry foods usually contain only around 10% moisture.
3. Keep them trim - Just as weight control will help to prevent arthritis, it will also reduce the likelihood of urinary issues, particularly in cats.
4. Good quality food - avoid cheap, low-quality brands and stick to premium foods as this can help prevent urinary issues. Premium pet foods have controlled levels of salt, minerals, and protein to help avoid the formation of crystals in the urine.
5. Provide enough toileting opportunities - for cats this means ensuring that you have enough litter trays throughout the house or access to the outdoors via cat doors or flaps. A general rule of thumb for litter trays is to provide the same number of trays as you have cats, plus one extra. For dogs, offering unlimited access to appropriate toileting places by using pet doors, or training your pooch to use an indoor pet loo are a great way to ensure that your dog's bladder is emptied regularly.
6. Reducing stress. As mentioned above, for cats in particular, stress and anxiety can play a major role in the development of urinary issues - in fact this is why many urinary diets are combined with anti-anxiety ingredients.
Veterinary & Retail Urinary Diets for Pets
| Product | Veterinary or Retail? | How does it work? | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
Hills Prescription Diet C/D Urinary Care
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Suitable for cystitis and uroliths caused by struvite crystals ⢠Controlled levels of magnesium, calcium and phosphorus
|
Dry cat formula: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Pork Flavor, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, L-Lysine, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Potassium Citrate, vitamins, Taurine, DL-Methionine, Dried Hydrolyzed Casein, Iodized Salt, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet C/D Stress + Metabolic
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠A weight loss and urinary care diet with added stress ingredients ⢠Suitable for cystitis and uroliths caused by struvite crystals ⢠Controlled levels of magnesium, calcium and phosphorus
⢠Boosts the metabolism to increase fat loss
|
Dry cat formula: Chicken, Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Pork Flavor, Soybean Oil, Fish Oil, L-Lysine, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Potassium Citrate, vitamins, Taurine, DL-Methionine, Dried Hydrolyzed Casein, Iodized Salt, L-Tryptophan, minerals, Mixed Tocopherols, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene. |
Hills Prescription Diet U/D Urinary Care
|
Veterinary Diet
|
⢠Suitable for cystitis and uroliths caused by cysteine / oxalate / uric acid crystals. ⢠Reduced levels of protein and calcium to limit bladder stone formation
|
Dry dog formula: Brewers Rice, Corn Starch, Pork Fat, Egg Product, Powdered Cellulose, Chicken Liver Flavour, Flaxseed, Lactic Acid, Potassium Citrate, Soybean Oil, Calcium Carbonate, L-Lysine, Iodized Salt, Choline Chloride, vitamins, Dried Beet Pulp, L-Threonine, Taurine, minerals, L-Carnitine, L-Tryptophan, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavours, Beta-Carotene |
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary S/O
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Veterinary Diet
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⢠Suitable for cystitis and uroliths caused by struvite crystals and calcium oxalate stones ⢠Controlled levels of magnesium to reduce struvite formation
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Dry cat formula: rice, wheat gluten, dehydrated poultry meat, maize flour, animal fats, maize gluten, hydrolysed animal proteins, minerals, vegetable fibres, beet pulp, fish oil, soya oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides, hydrolysed crustaceans (source of glucosamine), marigold extract (source of lutein). |
Hills Science Diet Urinary and Hairball
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Retail diet
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⢠Optimal magnesium levels to reduce struvite crystal formation
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Dry dog formula: Chicken, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Pork Fat, Powdered Cellulose, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Liver Flavor, Dried Beet Pulp, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Calcium Sulfate, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, L-Lysine, Iodized Salt, Dicalcium Phosphate, Taurine, vitamins, Potassium Citrate, minerals, L-Carnitine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Green Peas, Apples, Cranberries, Carrots, Broccoli, Beta-Carotene |
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Retail diet
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⢠Controlled levels of minerals to reduce crystal formation
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Dry cat formula: Dehydrated poultry protein, maize, vegetable protein isolate*, rice, wheat, animal fats, vegetable fibres, maize gluten, hydrolysed animal proteins, maize flour, minerals, beet pulp, yeasts, soya oil, fish oil, marigold extract (source of lutein), vitamins, minerals. |
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Retail diet
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⢠Controlled levels of magnesium to reduce crystal formation
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Dry 'Live Clear' formula: Chicken (dehydrated chicken, chicken); brewers rice; whole grain wheat; corn protein; poultry oil: minerals, vitamins, amino acids, organic acids and flavours; vitamins, fish oil; tuna meal; dried egg product, dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product and natural antioxidants. |
For more information, take a look at our guide on Preventing Urinary Issues in your Cat.
Further Reading on Pet Health Care
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