I’m at a bit of a loss here and could really use some advice. My cat, Luna, has been on Royal Canin Urinary SO for the past year to help with her bladder issues, but lately, her refusal to eat it is stressing me out. It’s like she’s had a sudden change of heart. Over the past week, she’s been turning her nose up at it and seems less energetic, which is not like her at all. I’m worried because it’s crucial for her health, but I don’t want her to skip meals. Has anyone else dealt with a similar situation? Are there any other diets or alternatives that have worked for you? I just want to make sure she’s getting what she needs without forcing something she clearly doesn’t want anymore.
Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. I completely understand why you're looking for alternatives to Royal Canin Urinary SO for your pet. This special diet is often recommended to help manage and prevent urinary crystal and stone formation by controlling the mineral content and promoting more acidic urine, which discourages crystal formation.
If you're considering an alternative diet, you’ll want to ensure that whatever you choose supports urinary health similarly. A key factor is a diet that maintains appropriate levels of magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium while promoting a slightly acidic urine pH.
At-home, always provide fresh water to encourage your pet to drink more, as hydration helps flush the urinary system. Also, watch for signs like increased or painful urination, blood in the urine, or any behavioral changes, which may indicate a persistent or evolving issue.
It's wise to work closely with a vet when making dietary changes to ensure your pet's urinary health is fully supported. I recommend booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet professionals who can explore alternatives tailored to your pet's specific needs and health status.
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