also see Cat Bladder
Feline UTI is an infection in the bladder or urethra of the cat. There are several related urinary infections such as FLUTD or feline lower urinary tract disease, formerly named feline urological syndrome (FUS). Feline UTI and related diseases may be caused due to various factors and the treatment not only aims at treating the infection, but also its main cause.Symptoms of Cat UTI
- Strong foul smelling urine
- Blood in urine
- Cat strains when urinating
- Urination out of the litter box
- Lethargy
Urinary tract infections if left untreated can lead to death. The treatment options vary, and are based on the diagnosis. Infection caused by kidney stones, may require surgical removal but if the infection can be cured exclusively by medication, the vet will prescribe antibiotic drugs.
Prescription and Non Prescription Medication Includes:
- Cephalexin
- Amoxicillin
- Uroeze
- Baytril
- Ciprofloxacin
- Amoxi drop
If your pet frequently falls prey to urinary tract infections, certain medicines could be regularly administered to monitor the pH balance in the urine and prevent formation of kidney stones.
Commonly Known Medicines Are:
- Potassium citrate granules
- UT soft chews for cats
- Methigel Urinary acidifier
- Cranberry relief
Apart from these medicines, herbal supplements are available for the treatment of bladder infection. It's best to have a preventive approach toward UTI. Cat's can easily contract UTI if their litter boxes are not cleaned. Dietary adjustments are necessary for cats that frequently suffer from urinary infections especially pets suffering from kidney stones. They require a diet with lower amounts of magnesium, ammonium and phosphate. Often a combination of dry and wet cat food works best. Your cat also has to consume fresh clean water daily.
Recent studies indicate that dry cat food contains less than the required amount of water essential for complete hydration in cats. Since cats don't drink sufficient water in a day, this coupled with dry cat food makes their urine overly concentrated. Certain dry foods contain urine acidifiers that can often lead to impaired kidney function and lower levels of potassium. The first step to maintain good cat health is to provide your cat with a balanced diet with age appropriate amounts of essential nutrients and supplements.
Remember, antibiotics have side effects and the correct approach is to stop the cause of infections. Commercially available herbal or natural products are useful to treat the symptoms and boost the immune system. Herbal treatments also kill dangerous bacteria and prevent bacteria related symptoms. Chimaphila, nux vomica and canthar are available homeopathic treatments that are milder and have fewer side effects.
Known Natural Remedies for Cat Urinary Problems
- Solid Gold berry balance
- Vetri-Science UT strength for cats
- Genesis resources feline urinary tract support
- Animals apawthecary tinkle tonic
Read the package instructions before you give your dog any medication. It's best to conduct regular vet checks and discuss the treatment or supplement options that will suit your cat. Keep your cat in clean surroundings and prevent your cat from coming in contact with outdoor sources of contamination.