Medicine for Feline Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection or UTI is a medical condition where bacteria becomes trapped in the urethra or bladder of animals or humans. In order to treat urinary tract infections in cats, veterinarians commonly prescribe medications.

  1. Types of Medications

    • The most common medications used to treat urinary tract infections are antibiotics. For cats, enrofloxacin or a combination tablet of amoxicillin and claculanate are commonly prescribed.

    Function

    • Both types of antibiotic medications work by disrupting the processes that bacterial cells use to replicate and produce energy. This leads to the death of the bacteria that is causing the urinary tract infection in your cat.

    Time Frame

    • Most feline urinary tract infections heal after 10 to 14 days of antibiotic use, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Symptoms often disappear within the first few days, but you should continue to give your cat the medicine to ensure that his immune system destroys all of the bacteria.

    Side Effects

    • According to Wedgewood Pharmacy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and loose stools are possible side effects associated with UTI medications. Some cats develop severe allergic reactions to the antibiotics as well.

    Considerations

    • If your cat has a compromised immune system due to illness or prescription medications, there is a danger that the urinary tract infection may spread to his kidneys. In such cases, your veterinarian may prescribe the antibiotics for four to six weeks, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.