For cats experiencing digestive issues, finding treats that are both palatable and beneficial for their sensitive systems can be a challenge. Royal Canin’s Gastrointestinal Feline Treats are specifically designed to complement veterinary therapeutic diets, offering a palatable option that supports digestive health in adult cats. These treats are formulated to be compatible with ROYAL CANIN® VETERINARY DIET GASTROINTESTINAL Feline formulas, making them a suitable choice for cats under veterinary dietary management.
Understanding the Benefits of Gastrointestinal Feline Treats
The primary benefit of these treats lies in their carefully selected nutrients that actively support a cat’s digestive health. For cats prone to gastrointestinal upset, this targeted nutritional support can be crucial. Furthermore, these treats are formulated to promote a urinary environment unfavorable to the development of both struvite and calcium oxalate crystals, indicated by the S/O INDEX. This dual action addresses both digestive and urinary health concerns, a common pairing in feline health management.
Key Nutritional Components and Ingredients
The formulation of Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Feline Treats includes a blend of ingredients aimed at supporting digestive function. Key components include brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, and corn gluten meal, which provide digestible protein sources. Wheat gluten and powdered cellulose contribute to fiber content, aiding in the regulation of the digestive tract.
To further support gut health, the treats contain natural flavors, chicken fat, and egg product, offering palatable and energy-dense ingredients. The inclusion of dried plain beet pulp and psyllium seed husk are notable for their role as prebiotics and fiber sources, promoting healthy gut flora and regular bowel movements.
Essential fatty acids from fish oil and vegetable oil are also present, contributing to overall health and potentially soothing inflammation within the digestive system. The formula is fortified with a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals, including essential vitamins like DL-alpha tocopherol acetate (Vitamin E) and L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (Vitamin C), as well as trace minerals in proteinate form for enhanced absorption.
Other beneficial ingredients include fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which act as prebiotics, and taurine, an essential amino acid for felines. Hydrolyzed yeast provides additional nutritional benefits, while marigold extract and rosemary extract offer antioxidant properties. The treats are preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid to maintain freshness.
The guaranteed analysis indicates a crude protein content of at least 33.0%, crude fat of at least 11.0%, a maximum crude fiber of 7.3%, and a maximum moisture content of 8.0%. The metabolizable energy content is approximately 3475 kilocalories per kilogram, with each treat providing about 1 kilocalorie.
Veterinary Guidance and Usage
ROYAL CANIN® Gastrointestinal Feline Treats are intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only and should be used as recommended by a veterinarian. Their compatibility with specific veterinary diets makes them a valuable addition to a prescribed treatment plan. It is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to determine if these treats are appropriate for an individual cat’s health needs.
Availability and Considerations
This veterinary formula is available through select retailers and veterinary clinics. Pet owners are advised to consult their veterinarian to confirm the suitability of the treats or to locate a trusted partner for purchasing with a prescription. Reviews indicate that while many cats enjoy these treats and benefit from them, availability can sometimes be an issue, with past product holds causing concern for owners relying on them for their cat’s digestive management. In instances of unavailability, veterinarians may suggest using small pieces of the cat’s prescribed kibble as a temporary treat alternative to maintain dietary consistency.
In conclusion, Royal Canin’s Gastrointestinal Feline Treats offer a scientifically formulated option for cat owners seeking to support their feline companion’s digestive and urinary health. When used under the guidance of a veterinarian, these treats can be an effective part of a comprehensive management plan for cats with sensitive digestive systems.
