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My 14 y/o cat has beginning kidney trouble. Labs two months ago show these are up a little: SDMA enzyme, creatinine, and albumin. A little low on specific gravity. The vet said just monitor his symptoms (increase in urine volume and thirst). I want to know if YOU think he should be on a prescription diet, and if so, do I need a prescription from a vet?

My 14 y/o cat has beginning kidney trouble. Labs two months ago show these are up a little: SDMA enzyme, creatinine, and albumin. A little low on specific gravity. The vet said just monitor his symptoms (increase in urine volume and thirst). I want to know if YOU think he should be on a prescription diet, and if so, do I need a prescription from a vet?

Updated On May 13th, 2023

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 14 years old | 15 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

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Hello, thank you for using PetCoach. Great question. Typically yes, I would put a cat with any renal changes on blood/urine testing on a prescription diet. If the values are not up very high, there are early renal disease diets that would be good to use. Be sure to get his blood/urine checked every 8-12 months and if the renal values get worse he may need to go on a more advanced renal diet. These foods are prescription only. They are fairly expensive diets. There are many companies that make these prescription diets. I like Royal Canin and they are typically my first choice. This is the diet I would suggest to start with. ( https://worldtails.securevetsource.com/itemView/view/223965_HomeDelivery.pml?productId=144440 ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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