Dreading a cat food conversation with your vet?
Education is the best tool you have.
The more knowledge you have about these furry creatures, the better your relationship will be.
Use these resources to educate yourself and prepare for this conversation.
I’m not saying be cocky. But be CONFIDENT.
This is YOUR cat. You should know everything there is to know about the food you choose to feed.
Check out the guide today or pin the image below to your Cat Food board on Pinterest.
Disclaimer: I earn a commission if you purchase through affiliate links below. No additional cost to you.
Schedule an appointment to talk about cat food
First, schedule an appointment specifically to talk about your cat’s diet.
Vets are busy and schedule quick appointments.
Make it clear you’re coming in to speak about your cat’s food.
How to talk about prescription diets
Educate yourself on AAFCO cat food label rules and definitions.
Many prescription diets fit under the 3% “with” rule and 0% “flavor” rule.
Meaning, “with” foods have less than 25% meat. And “flavor” foods have less than 3% meat.
Ask your vet, respectfully:
- If this food has less than 25% or 3% meat, how can it provide the nutrition that my cat needs?
- Can you please explain how these ingredients will help my cat for x condition?
Additionally, print out ingredients from another product with similar ingredients.
Ask politely, how is the prescription diet better if they have the same ingredients?
Or, which is the prescription diet and which is the nonprescription diet? Can you tell me the difference?
Dr. Elizabeth Hodgkins
Dr. Hodgkins owns a patent in which she TREATS diabetic cats. She transitions from kibble to a high protein low carb wet cat food.
And ultimately, a properly balanced raw homemade cat food.
This resource works for all cats. Many vets believe that diabetes is incurable.
Please print the patent and share it with your vet.
Important note: If your cat is diabetic, work with your cat’s doctor to test blood glucose and dose insulin accordingly. Insulin overdoses are very serious. Do not do this on your own.
How to talk to your vet about a raw diet
Many traditional vets are against raw feeding because the AVMA, FDA, AAFCO, and CDC all advise against raw feeding.
There are risks involved such as bacteria contamination and nutritional imbalances. However, these risks are in all types of cat food.
- Talk about your raw diet safety protocols
- Get a nutritional analysis from the raw pet food supplier
- Send the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society’s position statement to your vet
This will help ease both risk ideas.
If you’re new to a raw diet, I recommend:
- Darwin’s Natural Pet. Trial offer is 10 pounds of food for $14.95.
- Quest Cat Food. Use code JESSCATICLES for 25% off.
Both are formulated to be complete and balanced and meet AAFCO nutritional guidelines for all life stages.
Note: Please transition cat food slowly.
How to find a new vet
If you still don’t feel comfortable, maybe it’s time to find a new vet.
You can find a holistic veterinarian in your area through AHVMA.
I found Jericho’s vet there, and she supports my raw feeding.
This may take more work. But think about the long-term investment.
Having a good relationship with your cat’s doctor is crucial for your cat’s health and happiness.
Final thoughts on cat food conversation with vets
Go with the hard facts and be respectful.
We should work together with our cat’s doctor for our specific cat’s wellness plan.
Use these resources to educate yourself and prepare for this conversation.
At the end of the day, YOU are responsible for your cat.
The more you know about your cat’s food, the better.
If you’re still having issues, find a new vet.
A trusting and comfortable relationship with your cat’s doctor is key.
Need help feeding your picky cat better? My switch your cat to raw course is for you!
