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Why do my cat's prescription urinary treats need vet approval?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 years and 7 months old | 15 lbs

In January our cat was diagnosed with crystals in his urine. He was put on Hills Urinary Control food. For a short time I was able to get Royal Canin Treats for him. Then the vets said they couldn't approve them until he was seen in their office. He was doing great on his diet and loved the treats. We can't afford to take him to a vets just to see if he can have those treats. Why do they have to be "Vet Approved"? They are safe and keep the crystals from forming again.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! So your Vet will prescribe the prescription food but not the treats? I would ask to speak to your Vet directly. Sadly anything that is prescription requires a valid Veterinary-Client-Patient-Relationship (VCPR). A VCPR requires a yearly exam which is what the law/veterinary boards require from the Vet. Any refill on prescriptions need yearly exams. With that being said you may be able to find the treats online as it is hard to enforce prescription diets, let alone treats. For what it is worth it is in the best interest of Oscar to have yearly exams and be up to date on his vaccines. I wish you the best!

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