I'm really hoping to get some advice here because I'm feeling pretty helpless. My sweet boy, Max, was recently diagnosed with a urinary issue, and our vet prescribed this c/d urinary care food. The problem is, he's not having any of it. We've tried everything—mixing it with his old food, adding a bit of chicken broth, even hand-feeding him—but he just turns his nose up at it. His energy levels aren't what they were, and I'm terrified that he's not getting the nutrients he needs. Has anyone else dealt with something like this? What worked for you? Any tips or tricks to make the food more appealing to him? I just want to do what's best for him, but I'm at a loss right now. Any help would be really appreciated!
Hi there! It can be a bit stressful when our furry friends are picky about their special diets, but you're not alone; many dogs initially resist new food. Prescription c/d urinary care diets are specially formulated to support bladder health and reduce stone formation, so it's important to encourage your dog to make the switch.
One reason your dog might be hesitant is that the food’s texture or flavor is different from what they're used to. Try gradually mixing the new food with a bit of their old food, slowly increasing the proportion of the c/d food over a week or two.
Warming the food slightly can enhance its aroma, making it more enticing. You might also try adding a small amount of warm water to create a tempting gravy-like consistency.
While encouraging the switch, watch out for signs of urinary discomfort, such as straining to urinate, blood in urine, or frequent, unsuccessful attempts to urinate. These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention.
Remember, dogs often need a little time to adjust, so patience is key. If your pup continues to refuse the food or experiences any urinary issues, it would be wise to schedule a video consult with one of our vets here at Dial A Vet for personalized advice. We're here to help you and your furry friend every step of the way!
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