Complete Review of Hill's Pet Products for Dogs and Cats
Hill’s is one of the most reputable brands in the pet food industry, easily found in nearly every pet shop and veterinary clinic. But is Hill’s really a suitable and beneficial choice for your pet? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Hill’s products for dogs and cats.
The company’s history dates back to 1907. In the late 1940s, Hill Packing Company partnered with Dr. Mark L. Morris, a veterinarian known for formulating some of the world’s first veterinary clinical diets. Hill Packing Company contracted with Dr. Morris to produce the original Canine k/d formula, a diet for dogs with kidney disease.
The collaboration between Morris and Hill evolved over the years, eventually leading to what is now known as Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The company has since introduced new lines, including the ever-popular Hill’s Science Diet. In 1976, Hill’s Nutrition was acquired by Colgate-Palmolive, and Hill’s Pet Nutrition products are now sold in 86 countries worldwide.
This rich history and commitment to quality have made Hill’s a trusted name among pet owners and veterinarians alike. In the following sections, we will explore the various products offered by Hill’s for both dogs and cats, helping you determine if they are the right fit for your furry friend.
Has Hill's Pet Food Ever Faced Criticism?
2019
In early 2019, Hill’s issued a recall for canned dog food from its Science Diet and Prescription Diet lines due to dangerously high levels of vitamin D. Excessive vitamin D can lead to elevated calcium levels in the blood, resulting in organ failure and potentially death. This recall came two months after a series of related vitamin D recalls affected other pet food brands, although Hill’s claimed there was no connection to those recalls.
2019
In light of this recall, Hill’s claimed it would strengthen its quality control protocols and demanded stricter regulations from its suppliers. Following this recall, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Hill’s for selling food containing dangerously high levels of vitamin D.
2015
In November, the company withdrew several types of dog food from the market due to labeling issues.
2014
Potential salmonella contamination led Hill’s to recall 62 bags of Science Diet dog food in California, Hawaii, and Nevada.
2007
In April 2007, Hill’s Science Diet was one of several pet food brands criticized for melamine contamination.
What Types of Cat Food Does Hill's Offer?
Hill’s offers several lines of cat food, including:
- Hill’s Science Diet
- Hill’s Prescription Diet
- Hill’s Healthy Advantage
- Hill’s Ideal Balance
Science Diet focuses on scientifically formulated recipes that Hill’s describes as “biology-based nutrition” for all life stages of cats.
Prescription Diet is available only by veterinary prescription. The recipes in this line target specific health conditions and special needs, including IBD, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and urinary health.
Hill’s Healthy Advantage is sold exclusively through veterinarians. While Hill’s prescription diets address health conditions, each food in this line focuses on five essential health factors: immunity, weight management, urinary health, digestion, and skin & coat health.
The Ideal Balance line is made with natural ingredients and is claimed by Hill’s to be perfectly balanced.
What Do Customers Think About Hill's Cat Food?
Main Line of Dry Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet for Dogs: Wet Food Line
Hill’s wet dog food is enriched with antioxidants to support immune health and DHA for brain development. Water is the main ingredient in all recipes. The wet food formulas for Hill’s Science Diet puppy food contain lower-quality ingredients such as soybean meal and whole grain corn. The only available flavors are chicken and beef.
Hill’s Science Diet for Wet Food: Ages 1 to 6 and 7+
Ages 1 to 6
Hill’s wet food for dogs aged 1 to 6 is designed for easy digestion and contains balanced levels of sodium and phosphorus for kidney and heart health. Omega-6 and vitamin E are added to improve skin and coat health. Lower-quality ingredients include soybean oil and dried beet pulp. Available flavors include chicken, turkey, and beef.
Ages 7 and Up
Wet food for dogs over 7 years old is specifically designed for senior dogs, featuring balanced minerals for kidney and heart health, as well as antioxidants to support the immune system. Some recipes have lower protein levels (around 20%), which may not provide sufficient protein for older dogs. Ingredients of average nutritional value in the wet food for dogs over 7 years old include whole grain corn and dried beet pulp. Flavors available are turkey, beef, and chicken.
Benefits of Using Hill's Products
Let’s review the strengths of this brand.
Variety of Diets
For specific dietary needs, Hill’s Science offers dozens of dog food recipes specifically formulated for all life stages and special health needs. From oral care to digestive health and joint care, Hill’s Science covers all the necessary dietary requirements for your puppy’s overall health.
More Affordable Than Some Expensive Dog Foods
Although Hill’s diets may not contain the highest quality ingredients, they are more affordable than some premium dog foods.
**Generous Return Policy**
This brand’s diet comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. Simply return any unused food that you are dissatisfied with to an authorized retailer for a full refund or replacement. Additionally, if you are not satisfied with the retailer’s response, you can contact the company directly for a refund.
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