Methionine Supplementation

[Candycane]

Hi all,
It's been awhile since I've visited but I have a quick update and also a question.

My female, Sydney, was diagnosed with struvite stones in December (full story here). Since then, we've had her on Medi-Cal Dissolution which is a Canadian veterinary diet formulated to dissolve struvite stones. We believe that the stones are dissolved now and will confirm that with another ultrasound. I spoke to my primary vet about changing her diet as she will now only need preventative care. He suggested that we could just keep her on the dissolution formula. I was under the impression that it was not supposed to be fed long-term. Granted, my vet isn't the most knowledgeable when it comes to nutrition.

So, here is my question...
Could I supplement with methionine (Methigel or DLM) and feed a normal diet (provided it is low in magnesium)? Does anyone have experience with this? I know that it would require frequent testing of the pH...I'm assuming that I can use the pH strips they sell in the drug store?

I intend to consult with another vet of mine about this issue but I would really like to know more about it before I approach him.

Thanks!

[Traci]

Since each case is individual, and with very specific needs, I advise leaving this up to your vet, or the other vet's opinion. Any time supplementing is done to maintain urine pH, you absolutely must ensure the diet you're feeding is not already an acidifying diet. (never ever use an acidifying diet AND an acidifying supplement together, unless under very explicit directions of your vet and subsequent followups on urinalysis)

[Candycane]

Thanks Traci.

Do you know of any side effects of supplementing with methionine?

[Traci]

None that I'm aware of, other than do not give to a renal or liver impaired cat...nor to very young cats.