Prescription Diets for Dogs & Cats in Houston
For many health problems, the right food is part of the treatment. At Rice Village Animal Hospital, our veterinarians recommend prescription diets for dogs and cats and help you choose the one that fits your pet’s condition.
Call (713) 527-0489 to schedule a nutrition visit.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Prescription Diet?
Prescription (therapeutic) diets are made to help manage specific medical conditions. They require a veterinarian’s approval because the wrong diet can make some conditions worse. Your veterinarian will recommend one based on an exam, your pet’s history, and, when needed, lab results.
Common Reasons We Recommend a Prescription Diet
- Food allergies and itchy skin
- Digestive problems such as chronic vomiting or diarrhea
- Urinary problems such as some bladder stones and crystals
- Kidney disease
- Weight loss for overweight pets
- Joint support for pets with arthritis
Hydrolyzed-Protein Diets for Food Allergies
In a hydrolyzed-protein diet, the protein is broken into very small pieces so the immune system is less likely to react to it. These diets are often used for a food elimination trial, which is the most reliable way to find out if a pet has a food allergy.
What to know before starting a hydrolyzed-protein diet
- It takes time. Elimination trials usually last at least 8 weeks before you can judge the results.
- It has to be the only food. Treats, table food, flavored medications, and chews can all undo the trial. Ask us about safe treat options.
- Not all “limited ingredient” foods are the same. Store-bought foods are not a substitute for a prescription hydrolyzed diet during a trial.
- Follow up matters. Your veterinarian will check in on progress and decide next steps.
Learn more about pet allergies.
How to Get Your Pet’s Prescription Diet
Once your veterinarian approves a diet, you can order it through our online pharmacy for delivery to your door.
Switching to a New Diet
Most pets do best when a new food is mixed in gradually over about a week. Your veterinarian will tell you if your pet needs a different plan. Learn more about our dietary counseling.
Schedule a Nutrition Visit
Call Rice Village Animal Hospital at (713) 527-0489 or request an appointment. We care for dogs and cats from Rice Village, West University Place, and across Houston.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do prescription pet diets need a prescription?
Yes. Therapeutic diets require approval from your veterinarian, who will recommend the right one for your pet’s condition.
What is a hydrolyzed-protein diet?
It is a diet where the protein is broken into very small pieces so the immune system is less likely to react. It is commonly used to diagnose and manage food allergies.
How long does a food elimination trial take?
Usually at least 8 weeks. During that time, your pet should eat only the prescribed diet.
Where can I buy my pet’s prescription diet?
Once approved by your veterinarian, you can order it through our online pharmacy for home delivery.