Is IAMS food Safe

Iams Urinary Cat Food Vs Prescription

[ad_1]As a cat owner, you want to ensure your furry friend is always happy and healthy. One common health issue that many cats face is urinary tract problems. Whether its recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary crystals, or bladder stones, these issues can be painful and uncomfortable for your cat. In order to prevent and manage these problems, many cat owners turn to specialized cat foods designed for urinary health.

Two popular options for urinary cat food are Iams Urinary Cat Food and prescription urinary cat food. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and it can be difficult to determine which one is the best choice for your feline friend. In this article, we will compare Iams Urinary Cat Food vs Prescription urinary cat food, explore seven interesting trends related to the topic, address 15 common concerns and questions, and provide insight from professionals in the field.

Iams Urinary Cat Food is a non-prescription option that is readily available at most pet stores and online retailers. It is formulated to help maintain urinary tract health by reducing the risk of urinary crystal formation and promoting a healthy pH balance in the urine. Many cat owners appreciate the convenience and affordability of Iams Urinary Cat Food, as it does not require a prescription from a veterinarian.

On the other hand, prescription urinary cat food is specifically formulated to address urinary tract issues and is often recommended by veterinarians for cats with recurring urinary problems. These foods are typically higher in quality and are designed to provide targeted support for urinary health. While prescription urinary cat food can be more expensive and may require a visit to the vet for a prescription, many cat owners find that it is worth the investment for the health and well-being of their beloved pet.

When it comes to choosing between Iams Urinary Cat Food and prescription urinary cat food, its important to consider your cats individual needs and consult with your veterinarian. Some cats may do well on a non-prescription urinary diet, while others may require the targeted support of a prescription food. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what is best for your cats health and well-being.

**Seven Interesting Trends**

1. **Rise in Demand for Specialized Cat Foods**: As more cat owners become aware of the importance of urinary health for their feline companions, there has been a noticeable increase in the demand for specialized cat foods designed for urinary health. This trend highlights the growing emphasis on preventative care and nutrition for cats.

2. **Preference for Non-Prescription Options**: While prescription urinary cat food is typically recommended for cats with specific urinary issues, some cat owners prefer non-prescription options like Iams Urinary Cat Food for their convenience and accessibility. This trend reflects the desire for affordable and easily accessible solutions for maintaining urinary tract health in cats.

3. **Focus on Ingredient Quality**: With the rise in awareness of the impact of diet on overall health, many cat owners are paying closer attention to the quality of ingredients in their pets food. This trend has led to an increased demand for high-quality, natural ingredients in urinary cat foods, both prescription and non-prescription.

4. **Customized Diets for Individual Cats**: Some cat owners are opting for customized diets tailored to their cats specific needs, including urinary health. This trend highlights the importance of personalized nutrition plans for cats with unique dietary requirements or health concerns.

5. **Growing Interest in Holistic Approaches**: In addition to specialized cat foods, there is a growing interest in holistic approaches to urinary health in cats. This trend encompasses a range of alternative therapies and natural remedies aimed at supporting urinary tract health through a holistic approach to feline wellness.

6. **Emphasis on Preventative Care**: Preventing urinary tract issues before they occur is a key focus for many cat owners, leading to a rise in the use of urinary health diets as a preventative measure. This trend underscores the importance of proactive care and nutrition in maintaining optimal urinary health for cats.

7. **Integration of Veterinary Advice**: While some cat owners may opt for non-prescription urinary cat foods, there is a growing trend towards integrating veterinary advice and recommendations into their pets dietary plan. This trend reflects the recognition of the expertise of veterinarians in guiding the nutritional needs of cats with urinary issues.

**Common Concerns and Answers**

1. **Is Iams Urinary Cat Food as effective as prescription urinary cat food?**

While Iams Urinary Cat Food may be effective for some cats in maintaining urinary health, prescription urinary cat food is specifically formulated to address urinary tract issues and may provide more targeted support for cats with recurring urinary problems.

2. **Can I switch between Iams Urinary Cat Food and prescription urinary cat food?**

Its important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your cats diet, especially when switching between non-prescription and prescription urinary cat foods. Your vet can provide guidance on the best approach for your cats individual needs.

3. **Are there any potential side effects of feeding my cat prescription urinary cat food?**

While prescription urinary cat food is generally safe and well-tolerated by most cats, some may experience digestive upset or other side effects when transitioning to a new diet. Its important to monitor your cats response to the food and consult with your vet if you have any concerns.

4. **How long should I feed my cat urinary cat food?**

The duration of feeding urinary cat food will depend on your cats specific urinary health needs. Some cats may benefit from long-term maintenance on a urinary diet, while others may only require it for a short period of time. Your vet can provide guidance on the appropriate feeding schedule for your cat.

5. **Can I mix Iams Urinary Cat Food with my cats regular food?**

Mixing urinary cat food with your cats regular food may dilute the benefits of the specialized diet. Its best to feed urinary cat food separately from other foods to ensure your cat is getting the full nutritional support it provides.

6. **What should I do if my cat refuses to eat prescription urinary cat food?**

If your cat is reluctant to eat prescription urinary cat food, try offering small amounts of the new food gradually and be patient with the transition. If your cat continues to refuse the food, consult with your veterinarian for advice on alternative options.

7. **Are there any natural alternatives to prescription urinary cat food?**

While prescription urinary cat food is specifically formulated to address urinary issues, there are some natural supplements and remedies that may support urinary health in cats. Its important to consult with your vet before introducing any new supplements or treatments to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your cat.

8. **Can Iams Urinary Cat Food prevent urinary tract infections in cats?**

While Iams Urinary Cat Food is designed to help maintain urinary tract health, it may not prevent all urinary tract infections in cats. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper hydration, and a balanced diet are also important factors in preventing urinary tract infections in cats.

9. **Is it safe to feed prescription urinary cat food to multiple cats in a household?**

It is generally safe to feed prescription urinary cat food to multiple cats in a household, as long as all the cats have been evaluated by a veterinarian and determined to benefit from the specialized diet. Its important to monitor each cats response to the food and ensure they are all getting the appropriate nutrition they need.

10. **How can I tell if my cat has a urinary tract issue?**

Signs of urinary tract issues in cats may include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and urinating outside the litter box. If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, its important to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

11. **Are there any lifestyle changes that can help support urinary health in cats?**

Providing fresh water at all times, encouraging regular exercise, and maintaining a clean litter box are all important factors in supporting urinary health in cats. Additionally, feeding a balanced diet that supports urinary health can help prevent urinary tract issues in your feline companion.

12. **Can I feed my cat a homemade diet for urinary health?**

While some cat owners may choose to feed their cats a homemade diet, it can be challenging to ensure that the diet is balanced and meets all of your cats nutritional needs, including urinary health. Its best to consult with a veterinary nutritionist before introducing a homemade diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your cat.

13. **What role does hydration play in urinary health for cats?**

Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining urinary health in cats, as it helps to dilute the urine and prevent the formation of urinary crystals and stones. Providing fresh water at all times and encouraging your cat to drink regularly can help support urinary health and prevent urinary tract issues.

14. **Are there any breed-specific considerations for urinary health in cats?**

Some cat breeds, such as Persians and Siamese, may be more prone to urinary tract issues due to their anatomy and genetics. Its important to be aware of breed-specific considerations for urinary health and consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations based on your cats breed and individual needs.

15. **What should I do if my cat has a urinary blockage?**

A urinary blockage is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. If you suspect that your cat is unable to urinate or is showing signs of distress, such as vocalizing in pain or straining in the litter box, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away for urgent care.

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between Iams Urinary Cat Food and prescription urinary cat food, its important to consider your cats individual needs and consult with your veterinarian. Both options can provide valuable support for urinary health in cats, and the decision should be based on what is best for your cats health and well-being. By staying informed about urinary health, addressing common concerns, and seeking guidance from professionals in the field, you can help ensure that your feline companion enjoys optimal urinary health and overall wellness.[ad_2]

IAMS Cat Food Review 2024: Pros, Cons, Recalls, & Verdict

Our Final Verdict

We give Iams cat food a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

As cat owners, we always strive to give our beloved furry family members the best. Unfortunately for some of us, our budget doesnt always align with the top-tier food options. However, you dont want to pick any old food you find at your local dollar store. Enter Iams!

Iams is one of the longer-established pet food brands in the world. It provides cat and dog owners with budget-friendly food options that contain all the nutrients your cats need to thrive. This brand fills the need of pet parents on a budget who want easily accessible food that is still nutritious.

Read on to find our honest reviews of Iams as a brand and their three top-selling recipes.

At a Glance: What We Reviewed

Iams Cat Food Reviewed

Who Makes Iams Cat Food and Where Is It Produced?

Iams is an American brand that produces food for dogs and cats. Mars, Incorporated, a multinational manufacturer of confectionery, pet food, and other food-related products, manufactures it.

The company was founded in the 1940s by its namesake, Paul Falknor Iams, an animal nutritionist. Iams was a college graduate and trendsetter who created the worlds first animal-based dry dog food in 1950. The company didnt begin selling cat food until the 1980s.

Iams eventually sold his company to his business partner, who sold it to Procter & Gamble Company for over $2 billion in the late 90s. When ownership changed, Iams underwent numerous changes to lower its prices to be accessible to more pet owners. In 2014, the company changed hands again when P&G handed it to whom it belongs to today, Marc. Inc.

Iams is primarily manufactured in their Ohio, Nebraska, and North Carolina facilities.

Which Type of Cat Is Iams Best Suited For?

Iams has a huge product line-up that suits a wide range of cats. They manufacture dry and wet formulas and have recipes to address specific health concerns, such as immune health and healthy digestion. The company also manufactures life-stage recipes for your cats when theyre kittens and when they reach their golden years.

Iams is one of the most budget-friendly pet foods on the market. Cat owners who need to watch their wallets will be happy with the price point of Iams recipes.

Discussion of the Primary Ingredients

Cat owners want to make an informed decision about the food theyre feeding their cats. There is much misinformation about ingredients and their suitability for our pets, so lets look at some of the great and not-so-good ingredients youll find in Iams cat food.

Chicken

Chicken is a lean protein source that gives your cat energy and promotes lean muscle mass. It also contains natural vitamins like B6 for sodium and potassium balance and fat and protein absorption. It has minerals such as selenium for a stronger immune response.

Salmon

Salmon is a fantastic source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can promote coat and joint health. It also contains nutrients like riboflavin, which helps to release energy from fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Tuna

Cats love tuna, but it doesnt have all the essential vitamins and minerals your cat needs to thrive. This may be why you often see tuna recipes that contain other protein sources like chicken.

Chicken Meal

Chicken meal is a powdery substance made of chicken parts and by-products. Its most often made of the skin and bone of the chicken, though it can also include other parts like the neck, feet, and intestines.

Corn

Corn is a controversial ingredient in the cat food industry. The thought is that because its not food cats evolved to eat, they cannot digest it. This is not true, and corn provides energy and essential nutrients your cat needs.

Corn can be highly digestible, depending on how it is processed. Iams cat food contains different types of corn (whole grain corn, corn grits, corn gluten meal), and not all types may be as digestible as others.

Guar Gum

Guar gum is a filler often used in Iams wet cat food as a binding or thickening agent. Some studies suggest that guar gum can affect protein digestibility.

Tapioca Starch

Tapioca starch is a binding agent that allows Iams dry food recipes to form easily into kibble. It is a dense energy source and acts as a fiber, which may promote digestion.

However, it doesnt provide much else beyond this. It is high in carbohydrates and may be high in sugar, neither of which is appropriate in high quantities in a cats diet.

Addressing Health Concerns

Iams has several food formulas designed specifically to target health concerns.Their Advanced Health line is designed to support your cats whole-body health. Their Immune Health formula contains vitamin E for immune system health, while the Healthy Digestion recipe features live probiotics to promote healthy digestion.

Their Healthy Enjoyment line is designed with picky eaters in mind, as it provides a combination of savory soft and crunchy bites and kibble. The mixture of textures is what finicky cats need to keep them interested in their mealtimes.

Iams has a Hairball Care recipe with a proprietary fiber blend to reduce hairballs before they form and aid digestion.In addition to these forms that address certain health concerns, Iams offers foods designed specifically for seniors and kittens.

Their Healthy Senior Food is rich in protein to support your aging cats muscles and to provide plenty of energy to ensure he can still play in his senior years. Their Healthy Kitten formula contains nutrients found in a mother cats milk to promote the development of healthy bones and brains.

Affordability for All Pet Owners

Most Iams naysayers will look at the ingredient list and pick ingredients like meat by-products to prove that the food is bad for cats. Truthfully, by-products are not inherently bad.

There are strict legal definitions of what can be included under the term by-products, and despite what many misinformed (but well-meaning) bloggers say, this doesnt include floor sweepings, hooves, or manure.

By-products are mainly organ meats and entrails and often provide your cat with more nutrients than just muscle meats on a per-weight basis.

Ingredient Transparency & Sustainability

Iams isnt very transparent about the source of the ingredients used in their recipes. However, all the subsidiaries associated with Mars are part of the companys Responsible Sourcing program. In this program, they engage their first-tier suppliers worldwide to improve their sustainability performance.

Additionally, their Sustainable in a Generation Plan addresses concerns such as packaging, land use, and renewable resources, showing that the company cares about long-term sustainability. They even launched a 100% insect-based cat food in the United Kingdom to harness the power of a sustainable protein source (as unconventional as it may be).

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At Catster, weve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

Recall History

We feel it is crucial to mention Iams recall history so consumers can make an informed decision when choosing what to feed their pets. While the company hasnt had a recall in over 10 years, its extensive recall history may concern some pet owners.

Iams has been recalled several times, but the last recall was in 2013. This recall affected many Iams dry dog and cat foods due to potential Salmonella contamination. Earlier that year, Iams recalled a smaller lot of dog treats due to the potential for mold.

In 2011, Iams recalled a single production lot of dry dog food due to high aflatoxin levels. Aflatoxins are toxins from fungi found in agricultural crops like corn, peanuts, and tree nuts.

Several recalls in 2010 affected the brands dog and cat food. Iams recalled lots of canned cat food as a precautionary measure as they may have contained insufficient levels of vitamin B1, a vitamin necessary for carbohydrate metabolism. They also recalled dry cat food twice that year due to the potential for Salmonella contamination.

The first Iams recall on record was in March 2007, when a widespread recall of many dog and cat foods occurred due to melamine contamination. By the end of the month, there were more than 100 reported pet deaths and 500 cases of kidney failure due to this contamination. Its important to note that Iams wasnt the only brand affected during this recall, which included Royal Canin, Hills Pet, Blue Buffalo, and Kirkland Signature.

A Quick Look at Iams Cat Food

Pros

• Affordable price for all cat owners
• Real protein is the first ingredient
• Contains vitamins and minerals cats need to thrive
• High in protein
• Formulas available to address health concerns
• Formulas to address specific life stages

Cons

• No ingredient transparency
• Extensive recall history

Reviews of the Iams Cat Food We Tried

1. Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Adult Cuts In Gravy Variety Pack Wet Cat Food Chicken & Tuna

The Iams Perfect Portions trays are the companys wet food option. These convenient, pre-portioned trays are simple to serve and take the guesswork out of feeding time. The chicken cuts recipe features chicken as the first ingredient, and since cats are obligate carnivores, you should always look for protein as the first ingredient. The recipe lists chicken broth as its first ingredient, followed by chicken in second place.

The recipes contain no fillers or artificial preservatives and are fortified with vitamins like vitamin E, an essential antioxidant your cat needs to protect his cells from oxidative damage. The strong scent and texture appeal to most cats, though some dont like the cuts in gravy texture.

Pros

• Chicken is the first ingredient in the chicken recipe
• Easy to serve
• Pre-portioned
• Strongly scented to boost appetite
• No artificial preservatives

Cons

• Tuna recipe does not list protein as the first ingredient
• Some cats dont like the texture

2. Iams Proactive Health Healthy Enjoyment Immune Support Chicken & Salmon Adult Dry Cat Food

The Iams Proactive Health Healthy Enjoyment line-up is designed with picky eaters in mind. This kibble aims to provide a food that combines savory, soft, and crunchy bites with traditional kibble. This formula features real chicken as its main ingredient, followed by a chicken by-product meal.

The next three ingredients are different types of corn. This recipe is fortified with natural fibers and prebiotics to promote healthy digestion. It contains twice the antioxidants as compared to Iams other dry food recipes to boost healthy immunity. The formula is fortified with vitamin A, essential for vision, bone, and tooth growth, and contains no artificial preservatives.

Pros

• Different textures to keep cats interested
• The first ingredient is real chicken
• Promotes healthy digestion
• Fortified with vitamins and minerals
• No artificial preservatives

Cons

• Three of the first five ingredients are corn-related

3. Iams ProActive Health High Protein Chicken & Salmon Recipe Dry Cat Food

Cats require a high-protein diet to thrive. The Iams Proactive Health High Protein kibble is a great option to meet your cats protein requirement while helping him maintain muscle and nourish his heart health. Eighty-four percent of the protein in this formula is derived from chicken and salmon, providing your kitty with the high-quality protein he needs to thrive.

The first two ingredients of this recipe are chicken and chicken by-product meal. The next two ingredients are corn-derived, followed by salmon for a good source of omegas-3s.It contains a unique blend of prebiotics and beet pulp to promote digestive health and is made without artificial preservatives.

The kibble has a strong smell, which may be off-putting to some owners and their pets.

Pros

• High protein recipe to support muscle mass
• 84% of the protein is derived from animal sources
• Promotes digestive health
• No artificial preservatives
• Source of omega-3s

Our Experience With Iams Cat Food

I have five indoor cats, ranging between one and 12 years of age. You can imagine how difficult it is to feed a houseful of cats, especially because they dont all agree on what food they prefer. I was excited to give this Iams line-up a try because weve tried several brands and food types over the last few months and still couldnt find any food our cats would eat consistently. Theyd like one particular brand for a few feedings, but then would turn their noses up at it for their next meal.

As with most cats, mine adore wet food over dry, so we first tried out the Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Adult Cuts In Gravy trays. I honestly wasnt expecting much of a response as my cats prefer the pate-style wet food, but I was shocked when all five immediately expressed interest in the cuts in gravy formula. They each gobbled down their serving. Even my pickiest cat, Belle, who typically needs her pate wet food watered down to eat it, didnt just lap at the gravy. She ate her entire portion. This is a definite win for my household!

Before I get into the dry food reviews, I need to preface this with the fact that my cats absolutely tore into these bags. I kept the two bags of dry food in the cardboard box they arrived in for several days after their arrival. They could somehow smell the kibble through the bag and the box, opening the box and helping themselves to a taste. The bags were destroyed, which I think says something about the palatability of the recipes.

Moving on, we gave the Iams Proactive Health Healthy Enjoyment Immune Support recipe a try first. Upon opening the box, I could tell right away that this would be a hit with my cats. I dont know if theyre so picky because they get bored of the usual foods we offer them, but after seeing the different kibble sizes and textures in this bag of food, I knew theyd love this stuff. I was right!

I was a little concerned that they might selectively eat the pieces of the formula they preferred over others, but that didnt occur. Most of my cats enjoyed this recipe, even the dry food deniers of the household.Last but not least, we gave the Iams ProActive Health High Protein recipe a shot. The smell and look of this recipe underwhelmed me.

Especially when comparing it to the Healthy Enjoyment formula, the High Protein recipe left a little to be desired. The kibble is all very uniform in size and kind of bland-looking. My cats must have thought the same, as they mostly taste-tested this recipe and didnt gobble it down like the previous two.

I havent noticed any adverse side effects from offering my cats these new recipes. Belle has a somewhat sensitive stomach and has taken to the Iams food beautifully, with no issues arising from the switchover.

Conclusion

Iams is a trusted pet food company with a long history. Their cat food is affordable, making it one of the best high-quality, budget-friendly brands available today. Their formulas are chock full of protein and are fortified with the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients your cats need to address their current life stage or health issues they may be facing.

Wed like to see more ingredient transparency so we know exactly where the food comes from, but we appreciate the brands commitment to sustainability.

All-in-all, we were pleased with how our cats enjoyed Iams. If they continue their no-recall streak and commit to more ingredient transparency, they will see a 5-star rating from plenty of cat owners!