Medications for Cat Urine Infections

A number of drugs are used to treat feline urinary tract infections. These include antibiotics and urine acidifiers for the removal of bacteria, pain relief medications to ease the discomfort caused by infection and holistic remedies to avoid the use of chemically active products. Speak to a licensed veterinarian to determine whether an infection is present and the appropriate course of treatment. Call a veterinarian immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction, adverse side effects or overdose.

  1. Clavamox

    • Clavamox is a type of drug called a potentated penicillin. It is a mixture of the broad spectrum antibiotic amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Amoxicillin is penicillin based, and clavulanic acid helps the drug work against certain types of bacteria it would normally have no effect on. The normal administration of this drug is 6.25 mg of Clavamox per every 1 lb. of body weight, administered orally every 12 hours, according to "Applied Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians." Clavamox is available as a tablet or liquid solution by prescription only. It is not indicated for cats allergic to penicillin or cephalosporins. Pregnant, nursing, or immune compromised animals should not use Clavamox. Possible side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fungal infections and allergic reactions.

    Methionine

    • Methionine is a urinary acidifier. It modifies the pH level of urine to eliminate urinary tract infections, as most types of bacteria cannot survive in an acidic environment. The change in pH level also works to prevent bladder and kidney stones. It may be used alone or in conjunction with antibiotics. Methionine is available under the brand name Methio-Form by prescription only. The average dose of methionine for the treatment of a urinary tract infection, according to "Applied Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians," is 250 to 500 mg per 2 to 3 lbs. of body weight daily, administered orally. Possible side effects include anorexia, diarrhea and vomiting. Methionine is not indicated for use in cats with liver, kidney or pancreatic disease. Cats suffering from metabolic acidosis or those being treated with aminoglycoside antibiotics or quinidine should not use methionine.

    Cranberry Extract

    • Cranberry extract tablets are supplemental or alternative treatments to chemically-based medications. Cranberry acidifies the urine and works to minimize bacterial colonization. Cats should receive up to 200 mg twice daily, dependent upon the severity of the infection, according to "Veterinary Herbal Medicine." Pregnant cats should not be given cranberry extract, as it can stimulate uterine contractions and cause miscarriage and premature birth. Certain drugs are affected by cranberry extract, including phenytoin, phenobarbital, warfarin and acetaminophen. Speak to a licensed holistic veterinary medical professional before giving your cat cranberry extract.