I'm really struggling and could use some advice. My adorable cat, Whiskers, has been diagnosed with urinary crystals, and the vet has put him on C/D urinary food. While I'm willing to do whatever it takes to keep him healthy, I'm wondering if he truly needs to be on this special diet for the rest of his life. He's always been such a picky eater, and it breaks my heart to see him less enthusiastic about meal times now. Plus, it's putting a serious strain on my budget. Has anyone else been in a similar situation? Did your fur baby have to stay on the prescription diet forever, or were there other options that worked in the long run? I'd really appreciate hearing about any experiences or advice you might have. Thanks a ton!
Hi there! It's great that you're looking into the best care for your feline friend. C/D urinary food is specially formulated to manage and prevent urinary issues in cats, such as bladder stones and urinary tract infections. These conditions can be quite uncomfortable and can reoccur, especially if your cat has been prone to them in the past.
The idea behind specialty urinary foods is to maintain urinary health by controlling mineral levels and optimizing urine pH, which can help reduce the risk of crystals and stones forming. Whether your cat needs to be on this diet forever often depends on their individual health history and any underlying conditions.
For some cats, staying on this diet long-term is necessary to prevent recurring issues. For others, you might eventually transition to a regular diet, but this should only be done under veterinary guidance.
At home, encourage water intake by providing fresh water and maybe using a cat fountain. Watch for signs that something might be amiss, like frequent trips to the litter box, straining to urinate, or any changes in behavior.
If you have concerns or want to explore dietary changes, booking a video consult with Dial A Vet can help you decide what's best for your kitty's needs.
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