Hill's Prescription Diet
Hill's Prescription Diet is veterinary therapeutic nutrition for dogs and cats managing a diagnosed health condition. Formulated to clinical standards and recommended by NZ vets, these diets are a proven part of managing conditions including kidney disease, urinary issues, digestive disorders, obesity, and food allergies.
Hill's Prescription Diet NZ — Veterinary Therapeutic Food for Dogs & Cats
Hill's Prescription Diet is the gold standard in veterinary therapeutic nutrition — a range of clinically proven diets formulated to manage specific health conditions in dogs and cats. Developed with input from veterinary specialists and backed by decades of clinical research, Prescription Diet products are recommended by NZ vets to support the dietary management of conditions including kidney disease, urinary issues, digestive disorders, obesity, liver disease, skin conditions, and more.
If you're unsure whether a Prescription Diet is right for your pet, speak to your vet — or browse our Hill's Science Diet everyday range.Hill's Prescription Diet for Dogs — Range Guide
| Product Code | Condition Managed | Key Action |
|---|---|---|
| k/d | Chronic kidney disease | Controlled phosphorus and protein to reduce kidney workload; supports kidney function |
| c/d Multicare | Urinary health; struvite and calcium oxalate stones | Controls urinary mineral levels; promotes healthy urine pH |
| i/d | Digestive upset; inflammatory bowel disease; pancreatitis | Highly digestible ingredients; prebiotic fibre; low fat |
| w/d | Weight management; diabetes management | High fibre; controlled calories; helps stabilise blood glucose |
| r/d | Obesity; significant weight loss needed | High protein, high fibre, low calorie; clinically proven weight loss |
| l/d | Liver disease | Controlled copper and sodium; high-quality, easily digestible protein |
| z/d | Food allergies and intolerances | Hydrolysed protein — broken down to reduce allergic response |
| j/d | Joint disease and osteoarthritis | High omega-3 EPA for joint inflammation; clinically shown to improve mobility |
| h/d | Heart disease | Controlled sodium; supports cardiac function and healthy blood pressure |
| t/d | Dental disease; tartar and plaque build-up | Unique kibble texture that scrubs teeth; VOHC accepted |
Hill's Prescription Diet for Cats — Range Guide
| Product Code | Condition Managed | Key Action |
|---|---|---|
| k/d | Chronic kidney disease | Controlled phosphorus and protein; supports kidney function and quality of life |
| c/d Multicare | Urinary health; FLUTD; struvite and calcium oxalate stones | Controls urinary minerals; reduces recurrence of urinary issues |
| c/d Stress | Stress-related urinary issues (very common in NZ cats) | Urinary mineral control plus hydrolysed casein to reduce anxiety |
| i/d | Digestive upset; IBD; sensitive digestion | Highly digestible; prebiotic fibre; supports healthy gut flora |
| w/d | Weight management; diabetes management | High fibre, controlled calories; helps manage blood glucose levels |
| r/d | Obesity | High protein, high fibre, low calorie; preserves lean muscle during weight loss |
| z/d | Food allergies and intolerances | Hydrolysed protein; single carbohydrate source |
| l/d | Liver disease; hepatic lipidosis | Controlled copper; high-quality digestible protein; supports liver recovery |
| y/d | Hyperthyroidism | Restricted iodine to help manage thyroid hormone production |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription to buy Hill's Prescription Diet in NZ?
Yes. All Hill's Prescription Diet products require a valid vet prescription. This is a requirement set by Hill's and reflects the therapeutic nature of these diets — they are formulated to manage diagnosed medical conditions and should only be used under veterinary supervision. If you don't have a current prescription, speak to your vet at your next appointment.
What is the most commonly prescribed Hill's diet for cats in NZ?
Hill's c/d Multicare and c/d Stress are among the most commonly prescribed cat diets in NZ. Urinary disease — particularly FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease) — is very common in NZ cats, especially desexed males, and dietary management is a cornerstone of treatment. The k/d kidney diet is also widely prescribed as kidney disease is prevalent in older cats.
Can I buy Hill's Prescription Diet without seeing a vet?
This prescription diet is formulated to aid in treating or managing specific illnesses or conditions. By purchasing prescription diet, you acknowledge and agree the following is true and accurate: I confirm that my pet was examined by a veterinarian who recommended the use of this prescription diet product. I understand that it is recommended that I seek veterinary advice at least every 6 months regarding the use of this diet product. I understand that if my pet's condition deteriorates while using this prescription diet product, I need to seek immediate veterinary advice.
How long does a Hill's Prescription Diet prescription last?
Vet prescriptions in NZ are typically valid for 12 months, though this can vary depending on the condition being managed and your vet's clinical judgement. Your vet may require a check-up before renewing a prescription for a long-term condition like kidney disease or diabetes.
Is Hill's Prescription Diet available in wet and dry formats?
Yes. Most Hill's Prescription Diet ranges are available in both dry food and wet food (cans) formats for both dogs and cats. Wet food is often recommended alongside dry for pets with kidney disease or urinary issues, as the higher moisture content supports hydration and kidney function. Check individual product listings for available formats.
What is the difference between Hill's Science Diet and Hill's Prescription Diet?
Hill's Science Diet is for healthy pets — no prescription needed, suitable for everyday feeding at any life stage. Hill's Prescription Diet is a therapeutic range for pets with specific diagnosed medical conditions. Prescription Diet products have different nutrient profiles specifically engineered to support medical management — they are not suitable as everyday food for healthy pets. See our Hill's Science Diet collection if your pet doesn't have a diagnosed condition.
