Medical Food for Cats

Medical food, or a prescription diet, is a type of food available only through prescription by a veterinarian. Cats must be examined by a vet and diagnosed with a condition that requires it.

  1. Types

    • There are prescription diets to benefit cats with various diseases and conditions, including kidney disease, kidney failure, food allergies, bladder issues, irritable bowel disease, various skin conditions and dental issues.

    Feeding Schedule

    • A prescription diet may require specific amounts to be fed to the cat throughout the day. Amounts will vary based on the cat's specific needs and can be determined through a consultation with your vet.

    Benefits

    • Benefits will vary from cat to cat, based on the specific ailment and prescribed diet. For example, a cat suffering from food allergies who is prescribed a hypoallergenic diet may no longer suffer from itchy skin or other allergy symptoms.

    Disadvantages

    • Not all cats require a prescription diet. Check the ingredients--some prescribed diets contain poorer nutrition than non-prescription brands. And some veterinarians push prescription diets onto owners because they receive a commission for selling the food.

    Alternatives

    • While a prescription diet may seem like a good idea, some owners may wish to seek alternative options. Holistic foods are often higher quality and can also improve the health of a cat, without the high cost.