The Science Behind Each Diet
We know that every pet has different nutritional needs. That's why we work closely with you to understand your pet's specific requirements and recommend the best diet to fuel their health.
Nutrition
Nutrition to Fuel Their Bodies Right
At Kelowna Veterinary Hospital, we believe that proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in maintaining your pet's health and well-being. Our team of experts is here to guide you in selecting the best diet for your pet, whether they require a specialized prescription diet or a balanced, everyday food. We provide access to our online vet store where you can conveniently order your pet’s food and have it delivered right to your door—ensuring they get the nutrition they need, when they need it.
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Below are some common specialized diets and their benefits:
Urinary Diets
(e.g., Hill's c/d, Royal Canin Urinary SO, Purina UR)
Urinary health is a key concern for many pets, especially cats. Urinary diets are designed to promote the dissolution of bladder stones and prevent their formation, as well as support a healthy urinary tract. These diets typically help increase urine volume, decrease urine pH, and reduce mineral crystallization. This makes them essential for pets prone to urinary issues, such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, or those recovering from surgery.
Why does your pet need it?
- To dissolve and prevent bladder stones
- To maintain urinary tract health
- To prevent recurrence of urinary blockages
Metabolic Diets
(e.g., Hill's r/d, Royal Canin Satiety, Purina OM)
For pets that struggle with weight management or obesity, metabolic diets are formulated to promote healthy weight loss and maintain muscle mass. These diets are designed to increase satiety (fullness) while providing balanced nutrition to keep your pet feeling satisfied and healthy. They are often low in calories and high in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and metabolism.
Why does your pet need it?
- To promote healthy weight loss
- To support metabolism and muscle maintenance
- To manage diabetes and prevent obesity-related complications
Renal Diets
(e.g., Hill's k/d, Royal Canin Renal Support, Purina NF)
Renal diets are specially formulated for pets with kidney disease. These diets reduce the workload on the kidneys by limiting phosphorus and protein while providing high-quality nutrients. The main goal of renal diets is to support kidney function and reduce the progression of kidney disease. They also offer higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids to help manage inflammation and improve overall health.
Why does your pet need it?
- To support kidney function and slow disease progression
- To reduce waste buildup in the blood
- To improve appetite and overall well-being in pets with kidney disease
Dental Diets
(e.g., Hill's t/d, Royal Canin Dental, Purina Dental Health)
Dental diets are specifically formulated to help maintain your pet’s oral health. These diets use special kibble textures that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and they often contain ingredients that promote fresh breath. Dental health is an important aspect of your pet’s overall well-being, as poor dental hygiene can lead to more serious health conditions such as infections, organ damage, and even heart disease.
Why does your pet need it?
- To promote healthy teeth and gums
- To reduce plaque and tartar buildup
- To improve breath and oral hygiene
Derm Complete and Allergy Support Diets
(e.g., Hill's Derm Complete, Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein)
Pets with allergies, whether food-related or environmental, often experience discomfort, itching, hot spots, and other skin irritations. Derm Complete (and similar allergy-focused diets) are scientifically formulated to support pets with food sensitivities and environmental allergies. These specialized diets work by incorporating hydrolyzed proteins—broken down into smaller components—making them easier for your pet to digest and less likely to trigger allergic reactions. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants helps to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy skin barrier.
For many pets, these diets can significantly reduce the need for allergy medications like antihistamines or steroids. By addressing the root cause of the allergy through diet, you can improve your pet’s skin health and overall comfort, often without relying on long-term medications. Derm Complete is one of the many prescription diets we offer for pets struggling with skin issues.
Why does your pet need it?
- To reduce skin inflammation and itching
- To manage food sensitivities and environmental allergies
- To reduce the need for allergy medications
- To improve overall skin health
All-Purpose Diets
(e.g., Hill's Adult, Royal Canin Medium Adult, Purina Pro Plan)
For pets who do not have specific medical conditions but require a healthy, well-balanced diet, all-purpose diets are a great choice. These diets are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of most pets, providing a balanced mix of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins. They help maintain optimal body weight, support digestive health, and provide essential nutrients for overall well-being.
Why does your pet need it?
- To support overall health and vitality
- To maintain an ideal weight
- To promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, and strong muscles
Prescription Diets Available
At Kelowna Veterinary Hospital, we carry a variety of prescription pet food options from trusted brands like Hill’s, Purina, and Royal Canin. These diets are specifically designed to address various health concerns and are available through our online store for convenient ordering and home delivery.
Nutritional Consultations
If you’re unsure about which food is best for your pet, we offer nutritional consultations for just $35, where our in-house expert will work with you to create a personalized nutrition plan tailored to your pet’s needs. Whether you’re looking for advice on food for medical reasons, managing weight, or finding a better feeding routine, we’re here to help.
Diet Fads: Navigating the Hype
There are always new dietary trends and fads circulating, such as raw food, grain-free, or homemade diets. While some of these approaches may have benefits for certain pets, it’s important to have a balanced understanding. Our team provides transparent, science-based guidance about the pros and cons of these trends, helping you make informed decisions for your pet.
Fueling your pet’s body with the right food is an investment in their long-term health. Whether you’re managing a medical condition, seeking to maintain their health, or simply ensuring they get the best nutrition possible, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
For more information or to place an order, visit our online store today!