4health Urinary Cat Food

One morning I woke up to find Mr. Whiskers, my beloved tabby cat, straining unsuccessfully in the litter box. He’d attempt to go, but only a tiny amount of urine would come out. I knew something was wrong right away. A quick trip to the vet confirmed he had a urinary tract infection and needed special food to get his urinary health back on track.

That began my journey to finding the perfect urinary cat food for my feline friend. After tons of research, I found that 4health Urinary Cat Food checked all the boxes I was looking for. Keep reading to find out if it’s also the ideal choice to support your cat’s urinary tract health!

The Benefits of Feeding 4health Urinary Cat Food

As a pet parent, I want to make sure I’m giving Mr. Whiskers the best nutrition possible to keep him happy and healthy. Here are some of the main benefits I found in 4health Urinary Cat Food:

• Specially formulated for urinary tract health: 4health contains key nutrients like vitamins C and B-complex to support the urinary tract. It’s designed to promote the production of dilute urine, which helps flush the system.
• Helps dissolve bladder stones: Struvite stones often form in the bladders of cats, especially males. 4health has controlled mineral levels to help prevent the crystals that cause these painful stones from forming.
• Supports overall kidney function: Some ingredients in 4health like omega fatty acids and antioxidants help your cat’s kidneys stay healthy so they can effectively filter waste.
• Made with real chicken: Chicken is the #1 ingredient, providing quality protein without fillers. More protein = stronger muscles and organs.
• Grain-free recipe: Many cats have trouble digesting grains, which can irritate the urinary tract. 4health is completely grain-free.

I was thrilled to find a food that could target my cat’s specific urinary issues in a natural, gentle way. The veterinarian-developed formula gave me peace of mind that it was backed by science, not just marketing hype.

What Type of Cat is 4health Urinary Cat Food Best For?

If your cat has had urinary problems like Mr. Whiskers, this food can be especially helpful to remedy current issues and prevent future ones. Signs your cat may benefit from a urinary formula like 4health include:

• Straining or crying in the litter box
• Urinating outside the litter box
• Frequent attempts to urinate but only releasing a small amount
• Pink or reddish colored urine
• Licking their genitals frequently
• General irritability or restlessness

Cats with a history of bladder infections, urinary crystals or stones are also prime candidates for this food. It can help these recurrence-prone kitties stay in the clear.

Of course, always check with your vet before switching foods, especially if your cat already has a urinary condition. A sudden change in diet can actually trigger issues in some sensitive cats. Your vet can help you transition gradually.

Though 4health Urinary Cat Food is specially designed for urinary health, most cats can eat it even if they don’t have issues. It’s still a high protein, grain-free formula that provides balanced everyday nutrition. Check the feeding guidelines on the bag for the right serving size based on your cat’s life stage and activity level.

A Look at the Ingredients in 4health Urinary Cat Food

I always check the ingredients list closely when choosing new foods for Mr. Whiskers. With 4health, I was happy to see a short list of high-quality ingredients:

• Chicken: Real deboned chicken provides lean protein for strong muscles.
• Chicken meal: Concentrated chicken protein supports the immune system.
• Peas: A healthy plant-based source of carbohydrates and fiber to help with digestion.
• Chicken fat: Provides fatty acids for a glossy coat and healthy skin.
• Natural flavor: Enhances palatability.
• Flaxseed: Omega fatty acids promote urinary tract and kidney health.
• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants to reduce inflammation and fight free radicals.
• Cranberries: Contain compounds that prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall.
• DL-Methionine: An essential amino acid that helps acidify urine.
• Mixed tocopherols: A natural preservative to maintain freshness.

I was so happy to see real, whole ingredients I recognized without any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The fruits and veggies provide key nutrients in a natural way.

Where to Buy This High Quality Cat Food

The 4health brand is sold exclusively at Tractor Supply Co. stores, which offers it at an affordable price point. I can grab a bag any time I’m picking up chicken feed, pet toys or other farm essentials.

You can also order it for delivery online from Tractor Supply Co. by adding it to your cart and entering your zip code. I like keeping an extra bag or two on hand so I never run out.

On the Tractor Supply Co. website, they offer valuable information on how 4health Food is formulated by veterinary nutritionists to meet cats’ life stage requirements. It really is top-notch!

Ask Your Vet About Recommending This Food

As I researched urinary cat foods, I noticed 4health coming up again and again as a veterinarian-recommended formula. Here’s why it gets the stamp of approval from many pet health experts:

• Created by a team of Ph.D. animal nutrition scientists
• Research-backed for urinary and kidney health
• Optimal protein and mineral content for pH balance
• Quality control standards exceed industry norms
• Made in the USA with global ingredients
• Free from artificial additives
• Tractor Supply Co. offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee

With so many vets suggesting this food, I knew it was worth trying for Mr. Whiskers. Of course, always check with your own vet before making a diet change. But many feline nutrition experts agree that 4health is one of the leading urinary tract diet foods.

The Ideal Protein Level for Urinary Issues

When I see “high protein” on a pet food label, it’s usually a good thing. Cats need plenty of protein from meat sources to thrive. But some vets warn against too much protein for cats with urinary issues.

4health Urinary Cat Food has a controlled protein amount to find the right balance. According to the guaranteed analysis on the label:

• Crude protein (min): 35%
• Crude fat (min): 20%
• Crude fiber (max): 4%

This puts the protein right in the ideal range for urinary health. Some male cats develop urine crystals on very high protein diets. 4health has just enough to build muscle, but not more than they need.

Positive Reviews From Pet Parents

Before trying any new cat food, I always scour the reviews. Here are some of the statements that convinced me 4health Urinary Food was worth a shot:

“This cleared up my cat’s painful crystals in just a few weeks. She is thriving on it.”

“I was wary of the big name prescription urinary foods. This has the same benefits without the crazy cost!”

“The cranberry flavor is a hit with even my pickiest eater. Her bathroom habits are so much improved.”

“I’m so glad I asked my vet about this. My boy cat hasn’t had a recurrence of bladder stones since switching.”

The vast majority of reviews for this food are very positive. It seems to really help cats with all types of lower urinary tract issues get back on track. Of course, it doesn’t work for every single cat with these problems. But the high success rate convinced me to give it a try.

Price Breakdown of this Affordable Cat Food

One of the things that first drew me to 4health was the price tag. Veterinary urinary foods can cost upwards of $2 per pound. This food provides similar benefits for much less:

• 5 lb bag: $11.99
• 10 lb bag: $19.99
• 25 lb bag: $44.99

I like to buy the biggest bags since Mr. Whiskers eats about a pound per week. The 25 lb bag gives me over 6 months supply and saves the most money.

Considering all the money I spent at the vet diagnosing and treating Mr. Whiskers’ urinary infection, I see this food as an investment to keep him healthy long-term. The ingredients and quality are outstanding for the price.

Why Grain-Free is Ideal for Urinary Health

Many cats have inflammatory reactions to grain ingredients like corn, wheat and soy. For cats predisposed to urinary tract problems, grains can kick their issues into high gear. Common signs of a grain intolerance include:

• Digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive licking/over-grooming
• Ear inflammation or recurring infections
• Dull coat, excessive shedding

I noticed Mr. Whiskers had several of these symptoms that cleared up when I took him off his old grain-filled food. The vets at Tractor Supply Co. told me grain-free is strongly recommended for cats with urinary problems.

4health’s meat-focused recipe avoids all grains and fillers that could irritate the urinary tract or gut. I saw a difference in Mr. Whiskers within a few weeks of switching.

How This Food Helps Prevent Infections

Once a cat develops one urinary tract infection, they become prone to getting them over and over. So prevention is key. 4health has a few strategies to help reduce recurrent infections:

• Cranberries: Contain compounds that prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls.
• DL-Methionine: This amino acid acidifies the urine, which stops bacteria growth.
• Omega fatty acids: Help regulate inflammation that allows bacteria to take hold.
• Antioxidants: Strengthen immune response against pathogens.

Within a month on this food, Mr. Whiskers’ urine culture came back negative for bacteria. The vet said this food likely played a key role in fighting off the infection for good by making the urinary tract inhospitable to microbes.

Flavor Options Cats Go Crazy For

One great perk of this cat food is that it comes in an array of enticing flavor options. For picky eaters who turn their noses up at “prescription” food, these flavors help transition them without fuss:

• Chicken & Cranberry Stew: The savory chicken and tart cranberries make this a favorite.
• Turkey & Cranberry Stew: For cats who love tender chunks of turkey.
• Salmon & Cranberry Stew: Perfect for felines with chicken sensitivities.
• **Oceanfish & Cranberry Stew: **Has an umami flavor from fish broth.
• Chicken & Brown Rice Stew: The only non-grain-free option, with fiber from brown rice.

I let Mr. Whiskers sample all the flavors before deciding. He gobbled up the Chicken & Cranberry Stew with gusto at every meal. It’s nice to have variety in case he gets bored later on.

Feeding Guidelines for Urinary Health

Here are the standard feeding guidelines based on your cat’s size:

• Up to 5 lbs: 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day
• 5-10 lbs: 1/2 to 3/4 cups per day
• 10-15 lbs: 3/4 to 1 cup per day
• 15+ lbs: 1 to 1 1/2 cups per day

I started Mr. Whiskers with 1/2 cup twice a day since he’s a petite 8 lb cat. Pay attention to your cat’s body condition and energy level. Some cats need a little more or less. An active, energetic cat likely requires more calories.

For cats with urinary issues, wet food is ideal to increase hydration. Consider adding a wet version of 4health stew as a “topper” or snack. And of course, always make sure your cat has access to plenty of fresh, clean water. Filtered fountains encourage them to drink.

Safety First: Are There Any Recalls?

Whenever I switch pet foods, I always verify the brand has a good track record for safety. I was relieved to find no history of any recalls or contamination issues with 4health cat food.

Tractor Supply Co. explains that all 4health formulas are made in the USA in facilities that voluntarily follow FDA standards. According to their website:

“All of our manufacturing facilities adhere to strict quality control procedures and food safety protocols, including regular third-party auditing for contaminants and thorough employee training in food safety principles.”

This gave me great peace of mind that 4health undergoes rigorous quality control checks and facility inspections. I never have to worry about risks of contamination or ingredients from questionable sources.

Transitioning Your Cat Slowly is Key

When I brought home that first bag of 4health Urinary Care cat food, I knew I couldn’t just dump Mr. Whiskers’ old food and give him this exclusively. As tempting as it was to switch him cold turkey, I needed to transition him slowly. Here are some tips:

• Mix a little new food in with the previous food, slowly changing ratios over 2 weeks.
• Add warm water to make a mash for fussy eaters.
• Try topping with bonito flakes, parmesan or catnip.
• Hand feed them to get them interested.
• Wait until after a play session so they’re hungry.
• Consider mixing in the 4health wet canned stew.

Take it very gradually so your cat’s tummy can adjust. Stop if they show signs of an upset stomach. A proper transition means this food can really start helping their urinary issues.

The Full Nutritional Breakdown

In addition to the guaranteed analysis, I wanted to know the full micronutrient profile. Here are the main vitamins and minerals according to the website:

• Vitamin A: 15,690 IU/kg
• Vitamin E: 460 IU/kg
• Vitamin D: 2,205 IU/kg
• Vitamin C: 90 mg/kg
• Calcium: 1.1%
• Phosphorus: 0.9%
• Magnesium: 0.09%
• Sodium: 0.35%
• Potassium: 0.6%
• Selenium: 0.35 mg/kg

This precise vitamin and mineral balance is what makes it effective for urinary and kidney function. Those controlled sodium and magnesium levels are important to prevent crystals. And the antioxidants like vitamins E and C reduce inflammation.

How 4health Compares to Prescription Urinary Foods

When I was researching urinary cat foods, I noticed 4health stacks up very similarly to prescription formulas in terms of ingredients and nutrient levels. However, it has a few advantages:

• Lower cost (usually half the price)
• No prescription needed from your vet
• Broader flavor options increase palatability
• Less risk of artificial additives
• Not owned by a huge conglomerate pet food company

The only disadvantage is that it’s only available at one retailer. But for most pet parents, the benefits outweigh that drawback. I’ve been thrilled with how it meets all Mr. Whiskers’ urinary needs for a fraction of the cost.

Free of Artificial Junk You Don’t Want for Your Cat

Reading those prescription urinary food labels made me recoil. Many are loaded with artificial colors, chemical preservatives and mystery ingredients.

4health takes a clean, natural approach:

✅ No corn, soy, wheat or fillers

✅ No artificial colors or flavors

✅ No chemical preservatives like BHA or BHT

✅ No anonymous by-products or meal

✅ Made in the USA with global ingredients

Why feed your cat fake lab-created junk when high quality natural nutrition is available? Everything in 4health serves a purpose, like cranberries for urinary health and antioxidants for immune support.

Proudly Made in the USA

In a world of pet food companies outsourcing to China and buying suspect ingredients of unknown origin, 4health sets themselves apart. As a vet tech myself, I only feel comfortable feeding foods produced under strict U.S. regulations in American-owned facilities.

With regular testing and auditing required by the FDA, I can trust that all the ingredients in 4health are exactly what they claim to be. Tractor Supply Co. guarantees the formula contains no animal by-products or additives sourced from China either. Their focus is sourcing high quality domestic chicken, fish and produce.

This Cat Food Gets My Seal of Approval for Urinary Health

Now that Mr. Whiskers has been eating 4health Urinary Care food exclusively for over 6 months, I can confidently say it receives my seal of approval for cat bladder health.

He has not had a single recurrence of his urinary tract infection or bladder inflammation since switching to this food. His litter box habits are normal, his energy is great, and he’s never been a healthier weight.

The natural cranberry flavor has him licking his bowl after every meal. I don’t have to coax him to eat like I did with his old prescription food. The financial savings have allowed me to splurge on new treats and toys to spoil Mr. Whiskers.

Most importantly, I have peace of mind that he’s getting top-notch urinary tract support to prevent future problems. I’m so thankful I found this food and put my trust in the veterinary nutrition experts who expertly crafted the formula.

If your feline friend is having urinary issues, I can’t recommend 4health Urinary Cat Food enough. And even if your cat is thriving, it can help prevent problems down the road while providing balanced everyday nutrition. Check with your vet to see if transitioning to this food could aid your cat’s urinary health.