Atlantic Veterinary Internal Medicine & Oncology (AVIMO)
When your pet is facing a chronic illness or complex medical condition, nutrition plays a key role in managing their health. That’s why your veterinarian may recommend a prescription diet—a specially formulated food designed to support specific medical needs. These diets are more than just pet food—they’re part of your pet’s treatment plan.
What Is a Prescription Diet?
Veterinary prescription diets (sometimes called therapeutic or veterinary diets) are foods developed with specific nutrient profiles to help manage certain diseases. These diets are formulated based on scientific research and are typically only available through your veterinarian or with a veterinary prescription.Prescription diets may be used for a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Kidney disease
Liver disease
Gastrointestinal disorders (such as IBD or pancreatitis)
Diabetes
Urinary tract issues and bladder stones
Food allergies or sensitivities
Obesity and weight management
Endocrine disorders like Hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s or Addison’s disease
Each diet is carefully balanced with the appropriate levels of protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to support your pet’s body without overloading organs that may not be functioning normally.
Why Diet Matters
In internal medicine, managing disease often involves more than just medication—what your pet eats can directly impact their symptoms, comfort, and long-term outcome.For example:
Pets with kidney disease benefit from reduced phosphorus and carefully controlled protein to ease the workload on the kidneys.
Pets with diabetes may need diets that help regulate blood sugar levels more consistently.
Pets with chronic gastrointestinal conditions often do better on easily digestible diets that reduce inflammation and support nutrient absorption.
Prescription diets are formulated to work in partnership with medications and other treatments, improving your pet’s overall quality of life.
Is It Forever?
In some cases, your pet may only need a prescription diet for a short period—such as during recovery from illness. In other cases, particularly with chronic or progressive conditions, a prescription diet may be part of their lifelong care. Your veterinarian will guide you through how long the diet is recommended and whether adjustments need to be made over time.
What If My Pet Doesn’t Like the Food?
Palatability can vary from pet to pet, especially if they’re not feeling well. If your pet refuses the food or seems uninterested, please let us know. We can often recommend different brands, flavors, or formats (wet vs. dry) within the same therapeutic category—or suggest ways to transition more gradually.
Partnering With You
We know that feeding your pet a prescription diet can involve some changes at home—especially if you have multiple pets or a picky eater. Our team is here to help you navigate that process and find a plan that works for both you and your pet.
If your pet has been prescribed a therapeutic diet and you have questions or concerns, we’re always here to support you. Nutrition is a powerful tool in your pet’s care, and we’re committed to helping you use it to its fullest potential.
