Canine Cystinuria

Cystinuria in dogs is indicated by the presence of cystine stones in the kidney, bladder or ureter. Failure by the kidneys to reabsorb amino acids results in the formation of cystine crystals and sometimes stones in the urine which can lead to blockage of the urethra.

Food/Feeding Options:


In many countries Hills UD - especially the wet version - is not available.

Royal Canin UC (it IS a cystinuria diet and the best choice when Hills UD is not available)
ALL Renal kibbles, especially prescription ones, like Royal Canin Renal and Hills KD.

Purina HA with added potassium citrate

HIlls DD in countries where rice and egg version is available (it is recommended as an option by UC Davis, personally I dont find this option safe if that counts to anyone). Added potassium citrate is needed.

All vegan kibbles or vegetarian kibbles. Avoid high salt (over 0.3 percent) and potato or peas if possible. Add potassium citrate.

Home cooked low salt rice, other grains and veggies, with added potassium citrate, added vitamins without any added protein. Avoid potato, beans, peas, lentils - or include them only rarely.

In all of these alternative options -except Royal Canin UC - add pure Taurine and L-carnitine. Ask your vet about the amount your dog needs. (Ratio should be 1:2)

NO OTHER option is an alternative to Hills UD.

NO OTHER food is safe in cystinuria.

These listed options are just an alternative in case of allergies to HIlls UD or when Hills UD is not available.

Hope this helps!