Hill's Pet Nutrition launches combination therapeutic diet supporting weight loss and mobility in cats

Hill's Pet Nutrition has introduced a new therapeutic cat food, Prescription Diet Metabolic + j/d, which the company says combines weight management and joint health support in a single formula. The product is available through veterinary recommendation.

Obesity in cats is well documented. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention's 2022 State of Pet Obesity Report, 61% of cats evaluated by US veterinary professionals were classified as overweight or obese.^1,2 Mobility and quality of life can be negatively impacted by excess weight.

According to the company, the new formula brings together two existing Hill's innovations — its Metabolic and j/d diets — into a single blend. On the joint health side, Hill's says the formula leverages a targeted ratio of omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce inflammation, support the joints, keep cats comfortable, and help preserve joint cartilage.¹ On the weight management side, the company says the formula activates the body's natural ability to burn excess body fat and affect calorie utilization, working with each cat's individual metabolic response.¹ Hill's also notes that relieving excess weight can itself positively impact joint health, suggesting the two components may work in concert.¹

In a press release announcing the product's launch, Hill's said the combined formula is clinically shown to improve a cat's ability to run, jump, and play within as little as one month.¹

"At Hill's, we're constantly researching and innovating to provide veterinarians with tools to deliver the best care possible for their patients," said Chelsie Estey, MSc, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology), US chief veterinary officer at Hill's, in the company's press release.¹ "This therapeutic innovation can dramatically improve quality of life for our feline companions."

The formula includes a fiber blend intended to help cats feel full and satisfied, according to the company.¹ As a prescription diet, Metabolic + j/d requires a veterinarian's recommendation. Veterinarians should talk with clients to assess whether the formula is an appropriate fit for the patient.

Veterinarians are essential in ensuring our pets live long, healthy lives and Hill's is here to be a trusted partner in that process," added Carrick Massey, senior vice president of Marketing at Hill's US.¹ "We're proud to provide yet another game-changing offering for veterinarians, pet parents and their feline family members."

References

1. Hill's Pet Nutrition introduces innovation to support feline mobility and weight management. News release. Hill's Pet Nutrition. April 30, 2026. Accessed April 30, 2026. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hills-pet-nutrition-introduces-innovation-to-support-feline-mobility-and-weight-management-302758110.html
2. State of Pet Obesity in the United States. Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. 2022. Accessed April 30, 2026. https://www.petobesityprevention.org/2022-state-of-pet-obesity-report-summary