Feeding Towards Better Health - Functional Foods for Dogs & Cats
Does your dog or cat need specialized nutitrition to achieve optimal health?
We often hear from customers whose pet has been diagnosed with a medical condition that requires prescription food. These diets can be confusing — especially when they contain ingredients like soy or by-products. Many pet parents ask us: Is there a healthier alternative?
Here’s what you need to know.
Prescription diets are not designed to heal your pet. Instead, they help manage a condition by avoiding certain ingredients or nutrient levels that could make things worse. (The vet may prescribe medication separately, if necessary.)
One explanation given for why these foods require a prescription is to ensure they’re used only for pets who truly need them. Many prescription diets are not considered appropriate for healthy pets, because they may lack sufficient nutrients like fats or protein. Think of it like this: A “no cholesterol” diet might help someone recovering from a heart attack — but that same diet wouldn’t be healthy for someone without heart issues.
So, are there healthier alternatives?
Recently, some pet food brands have started offering functional foods — diets formulated to manage health conditions, using good ingredients and ensuring they meet AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition. These foods are labeled for the condition they support and may be a great option to discuss with your vet.
Keep in mind that a sick dog or cat may be suffering from more than one health issue. We suggest you consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dietary requirement for your pet since he or she undertands the whole picture. Once you understand your pet's needs, you might be able to find a healthy alternative to meet those requirements.
The info below is a general guide, not a replacement for medical advice.
Common Health Conditions & Dietary Guidelines
Kidney/Renal Support
- Low protein (Dogs: 14–20% / Cats: ≤ 27%)
- Low phosphorus
- Added vitamins to replace nutrients lost through increased urination
GI Support (Sensitive Stomach)
- Easily digestible ingredients
- Prebiotic fibers to support gut health
GI Support – Low Fat
- For dogs with fat intolerance or pancreatitis
- Same as above, but with limited fat (Dogs:≤10% / Cats: ≤16%)
Diabetes Management
- Low fat
- High fiber
- Fewer carbs/starches that convert to glucose
Joint Health
- Enhanced with glucosamine and chondroitin to support mobility
Food Sensitivities
- Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): One protein + few additional ingredients (Helpful if you know what to avoid)
- Hydrolyzed Protein Diets: Proteins are broken down to prevent immune reactions in dogs or cats with severe sensitivities
Have questions about a specific product or condition? We're here to help!
We always recommend discussing any changes with your veterinarian first.
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