Pet Diets: Are Prescription Pet Foods a Cure or a Crutch?

Sep 17, 2025 | Pet Nutrition, General Veterinary Care, Paws and Effect Podcast, Pet Care, Pet Obesity

In this episode of the Paws & Effect Podcast, Dr Carra chats to like to Dr Tilana Botha, BVSc, Veterinary Advisor at Royal Canin South Africa. They explore the somewhat controversial topic of pet diets and specifically, prescription diets for pets. Discover the science (and magic!) behind veterinary nutrition, from combating allergies and skin issues to supporting pets with chronic kidney disease.

Dr Botha shares:

  • Why prescription diets are essential for pets with medical conditions.
  • The real reasons behind their higher price tags (hint: research and results!).
  • How to switch fussy eaters onto special diets without the drama.
  • Myth-busting facts about home-cooked and raw pet food.
  • The difference between hypoallergenic and “anallergenic” diets, and when to use each.
  • Why you can’t just grab these diets off supermarket shelves.

If you’ve ever wondered whether ‘vet food’ truly makes a difference, or want tips for managing pets with dietary needs, this is the episode for you. Dr Botha’s expertise shines as she answers those burning pet-parent questions and brings clarity to the sometimes confusing world of pet nutrition.

Connect with Dr Tilana Botha:

LinkedIn: /tilana-botha-40972490

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: drcarra.com
Instagram: 
@UltraPetVet
LinkedIn: 
/drcarra
Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: 
hillcrestvets.co.za

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet: This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet premium pet food, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet premium pet food a try.

Just for Pets is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that’s why we offer a wide ran.

Do you have questions?:

Got a Pet Question or Vet Topic in Mind? We’d love to hear from you!

Is there something you’ve always wanted to know about your pet? Or maybe there’s a vet-related topic you think more pet owners should hear about? Send us your questions, stories, or topic suggestions and you might hear it discussed on an upcoming episode of the Paws and Effect podcast!

Email Dr Carra at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and she’ll get in touch with you.

BE A GUEST ON PAWS AND EFFECT:

Are you inolved with pets and have interesting information or a story to tell us?
Email Dr Carra at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and she’ll get in touch with you.

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