Hill's CD Prescription diet vs Canidae for dog with urinary tract infection

[k&s]

My vet has diagnosed a urinary tract infection in one of my rotties. There was bacteria and also crystals in the urine sample. The veterinarian indicated that sometimes the dog's food exacerbates the problem by causing a higher-than optimal pH. So, I came home with a bag of Hill's (Science Diet) CD prescription dog food.

Also, the vet said that some 'natural' type dog foods tend to have certain mixes of ingredients that might actually promote too high of a pH and lead to excess formation of urine crystals.

The main ingredient is corn. Then there is alot of other stuff that does not look as good as Canidae (which is what I normally feed). There is more fat and less protein.

Is this a good food to be giving my dog?

Is it true that some of the 'natural' foods can promote urinary tract problems?

I do not think my vet was trying to sell me on Hill's for the long term. he just wants him on it for about a month to try to clear up the urinary tract problem (along with antibiotics).

Thanks for any suggestions.

[Troy]

In my opinion...these "Prescription Diets" promoted by some of the larger dog food companies are prescription in name only.

The marketing boys for these companies know there is more information out there than ever before. People are asking questions. So what do they do...they blur the lines.

Look at the ingredients...if corn is a major one as you say, this food is most likely garbage...and I bet you're paying a premium price for it. Your vet is making money off the purchase you can guarantee it.

I'm not a vet...but I have never heard of problems with PH levels associated with super premium foods. I'd get a second opinion.

Candiae kicks any Hills product square in the... ( I won't say it):)

[AngelBunny]

k&s:

Can't give you any advice personally since none of my dogs have ever had a UTI.

What about doing a search? I *know* I've read posts from members who've given their dogs supplements (if memory serves me correctly, cranberry extract was among them) to combat UTIs.

[WorkinDogz]

A simple UTI isn't a big deal in and of itself.....the crystals; however; are where long term problems can surface. Crystals form stones....and that's not only terribly uncomfortable; but can lead to a costly and serious surgery.

Foods can create problems in dogs whos kidneys aren't ridding themselves and breaking down the proteins properly.

Sometimes; using a food that is specifically designed to lessen the workload on the organs and which breaks down or is without certain properties that lead to crystal development.....for a month or so; is all that is needed to return the kidneys and bladder to normal function and then returning to the regular diet is without problems.

I really wouldn't worry too much about feeding CD for the short term. Kidneys and bladder is the priority at this point.