Madeleine Hull
Hill's Science Diet is a prescription dog food that is clinically formulated to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate and struvite stones in dogs. It is fortified with omega-3 fatty acids and enriched with antioxidants, potassium citrate, and controlled fat and sodium levels to support urinary health. While the food is designed to promote urinary health, some dog owners have expressed concerns about its effectiveness and cost and have sought advice from veterinarians on alternative options for managing their dogs' urinary issues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Dog Food |
| Product Variants | Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food, Chicken Flavor Adult Dog Food |
| Product Features | Fortified with Omega-3 fatty acids, enriched with antioxidants, potassium citrate, and controlled fat levels and low sodium |
| Intended Use | Reduce the risk of calcium oxalate and struvite stones in dogs, promote a urinary environment that reduces the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate crystals |
| Intended Users | Adult dogs |
| Brand | Hill's Science Diet |
| Manufacturer | Hill's |
| Manufacturer Description | Clinical nutrition specially formulated and developed by Hill's nutritionists and veterinarians |
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What You'll Learn
Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Dog Food
The food is recommended by veterinarians and provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs. It is made in the USA with global ingredients and comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.
Some dog owners have expressed concern over the cost of this food, with some seeking more affordable alternatives. However, Hill's offers a full refund or replacement product for customers who are unsatisfied with the product for any reason.
It is important to note that urinary problems in dogs can have various causes, including stress, liver issues, kidney problems, intestinal parasites, toxin consumption, and more. If you suspect your dog is experiencing urinary issues, it is always best to consult a veterinarian for advice and treatment.
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Crystals in dog urine
There are several types of crystals that can be found in dog urine, including:
- Calcium oxalate crystals: One of the most common types of crystals found in dog urine. Certain breeds are more genetically predisposed to forming this type of crystal, including Pomeranians, Miniature Schnauzers, Bichons Frise, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, and Miniature Poodles.
- Struvite crystals: These crystals usually occur in conjunction with a urinary tract infection (UTI). Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzus, and Bichons Frise are more commonly affected, but dogs of all ages and breeds can have struvite crystals.
- Ammonium urate crystals: These crystals occur more frequently in dogs with liver shunts or a genetic mutation. English bulldogs and Dalmatians are predisposed to these crystals.
There are prescription diets available, such as Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care, that can help manage the formation of crystals in dog urine. These diets work by helping to maintain a certain urine pH and controlling urine mineral levels.
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Bladder stones
Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care is a prescription food specifically designed to dissolve bladder stones in dogs. It is often recommended by veterinarians to address struvite bladder stones, also known as magnesium ammonium phosphate stones. This condition is common in dogs and can usually be treated with prescription food or medicine. Antibiotics are also necessary to address the associated bacterial infections in the bladder.
The Hill's Prescription Diet for bladder stones has received mixed reviews from dog owners. Some have expressed concern about the high cost of the food and the need for long-term prescription diets. Others have questioned the quality of the ingredients, stating that it consists primarily of corn, rice, and by-products. Despite these concerns, some dog owners have found the prescription diet effective for dissolving bladder stones, especially when used for a short period under veterinary supervision.
It is important to note that different types of bladder stones require different treatments. While some bladder stones can be dissolved with prescription food or medicine, others may require physical removal through surgery or techniques like lithotripsy or urohydropropulsion. Preventive measures, including dietary changes, are crucial to reduce the recurrence of bladder stones in dogs.
To prevent bladder stones, veterinarians may recommend diets high in animal protein and low in plant-based ingredients that could be high in silica, such as corn gluten. Increasing water consumption to dilute urine and maintain a slightly alkaline pH is also important. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the best diet will depend on the specific needs and health status of the dog.
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Gastroenteritis
Hill's Science Diet is a prescription dog food that is clinically formulated to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate and struvite stones in dogs. It is fortified with omega-3 fatty acids and enriched with antioxidants, potassium citrate, and controlled fat and sodium levels. This diet is recommended for dogs prone to urinary issues, such as bladder stones, and is intended to promote a healthy urinary environment and reduce the risk of crystal formation.
While Hill's Science Diet is designed to support urinary health, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for all dogs with urinary problems. Some dogs may have individual sensitivities or reactions to certain ingredients in the food. In such cases, it is essential to consult a veterinarian for specific feeding instructions and alternatives.
The treatment for gastroenteritis in dogs typically involves a bland diet, such as boiled chicken breast and rice, along with probiotics like plain yogurt or canned pumpkin. Over-the-counter anti-diarrhoeal medications can also be administered, but it is essential to follow veterinary recommendations or instructions on the product label. If symptoms persist or worsen, veterinary care is crucial, as further tests and treatments may be necessary.
In some cases, veterinarians may recommend skipping the diagnostic tests and proceeding directly to treatment, especially if the dog's condition is not severe or improving with initial interventions. However, if you notice concerning symptoms or potential toxin ingestion, bloodwork and X-rays may be required to rule out more serious underlying causes. The cost of these diagnostic procedures can vary depending on your location, so discussing financial concerns with your veterinarian is essential.
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Alternatives to Hill's CD
While Hill's Science Diet is recommended by veterinarians for dogs with urinary problems, some dog owners have expressed concern over its high cost. Alternatives to Hill's CD include:
Royal Canin/Medical
Royal Canin/Medical has an "SO index" on many of its foods, which may be beneficial for dogs with struvite stones.
Purina
Many Purina foods have a urinary prevention claim. One dog owner reports that their dog has been fine for years after switching to the Purina salmon formula.
Boiled chicken breast and rice
One source suggests feeding your dog boiled chicken breast and rice for 2-3 days after they have gone 12-24 hours without eating. After this, their regular food can be gradually reintroduced.
It is important to note that veterinary-branded foods like Hill's CD have extensive research and studies to prove their effectiveness. They are designed by PhDs and veterinary nutritionists and have extensive backing. While other over-the-counter foods may be effective, they often lack the same level of scientific rigour.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Dog Food is formulated to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate and struvite stones in dogs. It is enriched with antioxidants, potassium citrate, and omega-3 fatty acids to support urinary health.
Symptoms of urinary problems in dogs include the presence of blood in the urine, straining to urinate, frequent urination, and urinary accidents inside the house.
If your dog is experiencing urinary problems, it is important to take them to the vet for a check-up. The vet may recommend a urinary care diet, such as Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare, to help manage the condition.
Yes, there are other urinary care diets available on the market that may be more affordable than Hill's CD. It is important to consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations and feeding instructions.
