Caring for a cat with gastrointestinal issues requires specialized nutrition, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Feline Formula is designed to meet these specific needs. This therapeutic diet, developed through a collaboration of Purina nutritionists, researchers, and veterinarians, aims to support cats suffering from digestive sensitivities and promote overall digestive health.
This specialized feline formula is energy-dense, allowing for smaller, more frequent meals which can be easier for a compromised digestive system to handle. Its high digestibility is crucial for ensuring that essential nutrients are absorbed efficiently, providing the necessary support for cats experiencing gastrointestinal conditions. Beyond its digestive benefits, this diet also includes a “St/Ox Defense” to help maintain a urinary environment that is unfavorable to the development of both struvite and calcium oxalate crystals, addressing a common co-morbidity in cats with GI issues.
Understanding the Nutritional Profile
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Feline Formula is formulated with high-quality ingredients to provide optimal nutrition while being gentle on the digestive tract. The primary ingredients include soy protein isolate, poultry by-product meal, corn protein meal, and soy flakes, creating a highly digestible protein base. The fat content is preserved with mixed-tocopherols, ensuring palatability and nutrient stability.
Key nutritional highlights of this formula include:
- High Total Digestibility: Promotes efficient nutrient absorption, which is vital for cats with compromised digestive systems.
- Energy-Dense: Formulated to provide essential nutrition in smaller meal portions, easing the burden on the digestive system.
- High Protein Content: Supports muscle maintenance and overall bodily functions.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Contains nutrients that help support a healthy immune system.
- St/Ox Defense: Specifically formulated to promote a urinary pH that helps reduce the risk of developing struvite and calcium oxalate stones.
- B-Complex Vitamins and Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Includes added B-complex vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to further support overall health and well-being.
The guaranteed analysis shows a minimum crude protein of 50.0% and a minimum crude fat of 16.0%, with a maximum crude fiber of 3.0% and moisture of 12.0%. The formula is designed to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for both the growth of kittens and the maintenance of adult cats.
Feeding Guidelines and Veterinary Consultation
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Feline Formula is a therapeutic diet that requires a prescription from a veterinarian. This is due to the specific nature of its formulation to address medical conditions in pets.
Veterinarians play a critical role in determining the appropriate diet and feeding plan for cats with gastrointestinal issues. The recommended feeding amounts provided by Purina are a guideline only and should be adjusted based on the individual cat’s condition, weight, and veterinary recommendations.
General Feeding Instructions:
- Consult your veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations.
- Offer increasing amounts of the new food while decreasing the old food, with your veterinarian’s approval.
- Ensure fresh, clean water is available at all times.
- For kittens, consult your veterinarian for the proper feeding amounts as their nutritional needs differ from adult cats.
The calorie content is approximately 3805 kcal/kg or 546 kcal/cup, allowing for precise portion control.
Benefits and Customer Experiences
Owners who have used Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Feline Formula often report significant improvements in their cats’ digestive health. Testimonials frequently highlight a reduction or complete cessation of vomiting and diarrhea, indicating the diet’s effectiveness in managing gastrointestinal upset. Many cat owners also note that their cats enjoy the taste of this food, which is crucial for a therapeutic diet to be successful. The consistency in product quality and the noticeable health benefits make it a trusted choice among pet parents whose cats suffer from sensitive stomachs or other digestive ailments.
While primarily focused on digestive health, the added benefit of urinary health support is also appreciated by owners. The combination of digestive and urinary tract support in one formula simplifies the feeding regimen for cats with multiple health concerns.
Conclusion
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Feline Formula stands out as a highly effective, vet-prescribed nutrition solution for cats struggling with gastrointestinal sensitivities. Its carefully crafted formula, focusing on high digestibility, energy density, and essential nutrients, aids in managing digestive upset and promoting nutrient absorption. Coupled with its urinary health support and palatable taste, it offers a comprehensive approach to improving the quality of life for cats with chronic digestive issues. Always consult your veterinarian to determine if this specialized diet is the right choice for your feline companion.
