D-Mannose for Cats

D-Mannose represents a glyconutrient that occurs naturally in cranberries, and that is found in the composition of many supplements recommended for urinary tract and bladder infections. While getting eliminated from the body through the urinary tract, this sugar binds to sites where bacteria are attached. The harmful bacteria get dislodged and are then eliminated from the body. In particular, D-Manoose is effective for the treatment of urinary tract infections with Escherichia coli, especially if the infection does not respond to antibiotics.

Characteristics of Feline Urinary Blockage

FLUTD (feline lower urinary tract disease) is a health condition that may have numerous serious complications, among which the urinary blockage is rather common. Urinary blockage occurs when bladder stones obstruct the urethra and do not allow the cat to urinate. This health condition is more common in male cats, as they have a longer and narrower urethra. As the urethra is blocked, toxins are no longer eliminated from the body and they build up, eventually leading to the death of the pet. Fortunately, supplements based on D-mannose can be used as a treatment for urinary blockage.

Benefits of D-Mannose in Cats

D-Mannose does not only adhere to bacteria, but also to harmful substances and kidney or bladder stones. This way, the lining of the bladder and of the urethra is cleared up and the infection is treated. Even though it is a type of sugar, D-Mannose is very safe for diabetic cats, as only a negligible amount is used by the body, with the rest being passed with the urine. In other words, this means that the blood sugar levels of the cats will not be influenced in any way when administering D-Mannose. Products containing this type of sugar do not include any substances to which the cat may be allergic, such as gluten, soy, milk or egg proteins.

Comparison between Natural and Synthetic D-Mannose

As mentioned before, this sugar occurs naturally in cranberries. However, it can also be synthesized in the laboratory. The latter may not be so effective, as the body reacts better to natural D-Mannose. Because of this fact, it is highly recommended to pick products that contain the natural variety of the sugar, extracted from cranberries.

Availability and Administration of D-Mannose

D-Mannose is available as a powder that is mixed with water and administered orally. Products containing this sugar can be purchased either from independent health food shops or from alternative health clinics. Even though it can also be administered with milk, water improves the effectiveness of D-Mannose. The recommended dosage is of 2g or a level teaspoon, 4 times a day, one hour apart. The symptoms of feline urinary infections improve after only one day. This treatment may need to be repeated if the symptoms occur again or if they do not completely disappear after the first day.  

Side Effects and Overdose Risk

As D-Mannose is natural, there are no adverse reactions to it, unless the cat is sensitive to this type of sugar. This type of sugar is also safe for pregnant or nursing cats. More than that, D-Mannose does not get digested, so administering high doses is never harmful. A downside of this action would only be the cost of the treatment.

 

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