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Question:

My cat was recommended urinary perscription food despite no history of urinary blockages

I'm hoping to get some advice and maybe a little bit of reassurance. I just got back from a vet appointment with my cat, Whiskers, who’s the sweetest eight-year-old tabby. The vet recommended changing his diet to a urinary prescription food, but I’m a bit confused because Whiskers has never had any history of urinary blockages or issues. He seems perfectly healthy—no problems with peeing or anything like that. I trust the vet, but I’m also worried about making such a drastic change when there have been no symptoms or past issues. Have any of you had to switch to prescription food under similar circumstances? Is it just a preventative measure? I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by the whole thing. Any insights or personal experiences would really help put my mind at ease. Thanks so much!

Answer:

Hello there,



I understand why you might be curious about your cat being recommended a urinary prescription diet despite the absence of urinary blockages. These special foods are often advised as a preventive measure, even in cats without a history of issues. They are specifically designed to maintain a healthy urinary tract by controlling the levels of minerals that could otherwise contribute to stone formation or other urinary issues in the future.



Cats are known for their tendency to develop urinary problems due to a variety of factors like diet, stress, or simply genetics. Feeding your cat a urinary prescription diet can help maintain an optimal pH level in the urine and support bladder health.



At home, encouraging your cat to drink more water can be beneficial. You can do this by providing fresh water daily and considering a pet fountain if your cat prefers running water. Monitoring your cat for any signs of a potential problem is important. Look out for symptoms such as straining to urinate, blood in the urine, frequent trips to the litter box, or urinating outside the litter box. These symptoms can indicate something that needs immediate veterinary attention.



If you have further questions or concerns about your cat's diet or urinary health, I’d recommend scheduling a video consult with one of us at Dial A Vet. We can provide tailored advice and peace of mind.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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