Brenda Khan
Hill's Prescription Diet is a canned dog food product that has been recalled twice due to toxic levels of vitamin D. Excess vitamin D can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and weight loss. In addition, toxic levels of vitamin D can cause kidney failure and even death. There are many other causes of frequent urination, including an increase in water intake, a urinary tract infection, or the onset of a new disease such as diabetes. Hill's Prescription Diet u/d Urinary Care Original Dog Food is intended to support dogs' bladder health and reduce the risk of bladder stones.
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What You'll Learn
Excess vitamin D in Hill's Prescription Diet
In January 2019, Hill's Pet Nutrition recalled several products of their canned dog food due to potentially toxic levels of vitamin D. The recall included 33 different varieties of Hill's Prescription Diet and Science Diet canned dog food, amounting to 22 million cans. The recall was initiated after a report of vitamin D toxicity in a dog that consumed canned Hill's dog food. The company attributed the issue to a "'supplier error'".
Excess vitamin D in the diet can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and weight loss. At toxic levels, vitamin D can lead to kidney failure and even death. The FDA received reports of vitamin D toxicity in dogs that consumed certain canned dog foods manufactured by Hill's Pet Nutrition and marketed under the Hill's Science Diet and Hill's Prescription Diet brands.
The FDA is investigating the presence of elevated vitamin D levels in an expanded recall of 85 lots of 33 varieties of Hill's canned dog foods. The recall includes several products from the Hill's Prescription Diet range, such as the c/d Multicare Urinary Care Chicken & Vegetable Stew, i/d Low Fat Digestive Care Rice, Vegetable & Chicken Stew, and w/d Digestive/Weight/Glucose Management Vegetable & Chicken Stew.
The presence of excessive vitamin D in Hill's Prescription Diet has resulted in legal repercussions, with pet owners grieving the loss of their dogs and veterinarians facing the consequences of recommending the product. Lawsuits have been filed, alleging that the dog food was "defective" and led to the illness and death of pets.
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Urinary tract infection (UTI)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common type of bacterial infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are more common in females, with about half of all women experiencing a UTI at some point in their lives. However, males and children can also develop UTIs, although they are less frequent, occurring in only 1-2% of children.
UTIs are typically caused by bacteria, particularly E. coli, entering the urinary tract. The bacteria can originate from the anus, fingers, or other surfaces and be introduced during sexual activity, masturbation, or even through something as simple as wiping after using the toilet.
The symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, pain during urination (dysuria), cloudy or foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine (hematuria), flank pain, abdominal pain, lower back pain, and pelvic pain or pressure. In older individuals or those with memory issues, behavioural changes, confusion, and increased incontinence may also be observed.
UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics, although they are not always necessary. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol to manage pain and reduce a high temperature. To prevent UTIs, it is recommended to maintain good hygiene, including washing the skin around the vagina before and after sex, and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to ensure regular urination throughout the day.
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Diabetes
Frequent urination can be a symptom of diabetes. However, there are many other potential causes, including increased water intake, a urinary tract infection, or the onset of a new disease. Certain medications can also cause increased urination, including lithium, which can lead to a form of diabetes called diabetes insipidus. This is distinct from type 1 or type 2 diabetes and affects kidney function.
In terms of diet, excessive vitamin D can cause increased urination. In late January 2019, Hill's Pet Nutrition recalled several products in its Prescription Diet and Science Diet canned dog food lines due to potentially toxic levels of vitamin D. Excess vitamin D can cause increased thirst, urination, drooling, vomiting, loss of appetite, and weight loss. At very high levels, vitamin D can cause kidney failure and even death.
Hill's Prescription Diet u/d Urinary Care Original Dog Food is formulated to support bladder health in dogs. It is not recommended for dogs with struvite urolithiasis. This diet aims to reduce the risk of bladder stones by lowering the levels of certain minerals that can encourage crystal formation in urine. While this diet is intended to support urinary health, it is unclear whether it could cause excessive urination as a side effect.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional or veterinarian if you are concerned about frequent urination, as it could indicate an underlying medical condition.
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Bladder stones
The most common signs of bladder stones in dogs are similar to those of a bladder infection, such as cystitis. Dogs with bladder stones may experience changes in urination, have blood in their urine, and exhibit signs of pain and discomfort. In some cases, bladder stones can cause a urinary obstruction, blocking urine from leaving the body, which is a medical emergency.
To diagnose bladder stones, a veterinarian will start with a physical exam to identify any obvious abnormalities. They may also recommend tests such as urinalysis, blood work, and ultrasound to confirm the presence of bladder stones and determine the best course of treatment.
There are three main treatment options for bladder stones: surgical removal, non-surgical removal by urohydropropulsion, and dietary dissolution. The specific treatment recommended will depend on the type and severity of the stones. Some bladder stones can be dissolved with a special diet, while others may require surgical removal.
Struvite bladder stones are one of the most common types of bladder stones in dogs, especially in females. They form in the bladder or urethra from urinary tract infections and alterations in urine pH. Treatment for struvite stones typically includes antibiotics and a therapeutic diet to dissolve the stones.
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Increased water intake
In the case of Hill's Prescription Diet, the focus is on maintaining a healthy balance of minerals to support bladder health in dogs. While it is not explicitly mentioned that the diet causes increased water intake, it is recommended that fresh water be available at all times for dogs on this diet. This could potentially contribute to increased water intake and, subsequently, more frequent urination.
It is important to monitor your dog's water intake and urination patterns if they are on a prescription diet. If you notice any significant changes or concerns, it is always best to consult your veterinarian for specific advice and guidance.
Additionally, Hill's Prescription Diet has had a few recalls due to potentially toxic levels of Vitamin D, which can cause increased thirst and urination. This issue was addressed by the company, and it is important to stay informed about any updates or changes to the diet's formulation.
Overall, while increased water intake can be a factor in frequent urination, it is just one of many potential causes. Consulting with a veterinarian can help determine the specific causes and ensure your dog's overall health and well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Hill's Prescription Diet has been associated with excessive urination in dogs. In 2019, the FDA recalled certain canned dog food products due to potentially toxic levels of vitamin D, which can cause increased urination.
Excess vitamin D in the diet can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, excessive drooling, and weight loss. At very high levels, it can lead to kidney failure and even death.
If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms after consuming Hill's Prescription Diet, immediately contact your veterinarian for advice and further treatment.
Yes, frequent urination can be caused by various factors such as increased water intake, a urinary tract infection (UTI), or underlying health conditions like diabetes. It is also a common side effect of certain medications. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any urinary changes in your dog.
