Hill's Prescription Diet

Hill’s Prescription Diet is the veterinary range from Hill’s Pet Nutrition, owned by Colgate-Palmolive since 1976. The range began in 1948 with Canine k/d, a food developed by vet Dr Mark Morris Sr. for a guide dog with kidney failure. These foods are formulated to help manage specific medical conditions and are intended for use under veterinary guidance.

What this site lists

Dry food, cans and pouches for dogs and cats, labelled with Hill’s letter codes. Examples include:

  • k/d Kidney Care and k/d Mobility (kidney plus joint)
  • c/d Multicare Urinary Care
  • i/d Digestive Care
  • d/d Food Sensitivities with single novel proteins such as duck
  • Derm Defense skin care
  • j/d Joint Care
  • r/d Weight Reduction and Metabolic weight management
  • w/d Diabetes Care and t/d Dental Care

Using these foods

Your vet should choose the diet, because the same symptom can have different causes and some diets are not suitable for young, pregnant or otherwise unwell animals. A vet will also tell you how long to feed it and when to recheck, as many of these diets are designed for long-term management with regular monitoring.

When you buy online, compare the exact product your vet named: the letter code, species, dry or wet, and flavour. Mixing in other foods or treats can reduce the effect, so ask your vet which treats, if any, are suitable. Large economy packs can save money once you know your pet is doing well on the diet.

Common questions

Do I need a prescription to buy Hill’s Prescription Diet?

Requirements vary by retailer, but these foods are designed to manage medical conditions and should only be fed under veterinary guidance. Speak to your vet before starting, and keep them informed if you buy the food online.

Can a healthy pet eat a Prescription Diet food?

These diets are formulated for specific conditions and can be unsuitable for healthy animals, growing puppies and kittens, or pets with other illnesses. Feed them only if your vet recommends it.