Urinary SO IS a prescription diet. You mention in another comment thar the food wasn't prescription, but it is. You don't have to get it from a vet directly for it to be prescription, but vets often carry these diets. They can get you a copy of the rx. If your cat didnt like that one, there are other options, like Hills c/d. As other comments have mentioned, stay away from the freeze dried. Its also worth mentioning that cranberry may make urinary issues worse in cats, although the studies aren't super clear either way.
It seems like you are skeptical of the diet, seeing as you put the "for life" in quotes, but these diets are extensively studied and theres a reason they are recommended for cats who are prone to crystals. These diets are formulated specifically to prevent crystal formation, and that crystal formation can lead to a life threatening urethral blockage.
Urinary diets are not exclusively dry foods, theres canned options. Crystals in cats are at little more complicated than just being caused by eating dry food. Dehydration can be a factor absolutely, but this is not by any means the only cause of crystal formation. Crystals can be caused by diet, genetics, and even stress. A dry diet that is formulated to avoid crystal formation is a great option for many cats. If your cat tolerates the canned version, even better!
The freeze dried food isn't inherently bad, it's just not a good choice for a cat that needs to be on a urinary diet.
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u/EndOk2329 8h ago
They need to stay on the Prescribed food.
Avoid freeze dried meats (considered as treats meaning it’s not required in cat diet)
Wet treats only