UTI Treatment for Cats

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in cats are extremely painful and are caused by bacteria. A bladder infection is known as a lower urinary tract infection and the kidney infection is an upper urinary tract infection. The most common symptoms for cats that have developed a UTI are: pain and straining to urinate; frequent urination; urinating outside of the litter box; blood in the urine; fever; and loss of appetite. Early treatment should mean a good prognosis. You should always see your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has a UTI.

  1. Antibiotics

    • The most common form of treatment for a UTI in cats is a round of antibiotics. Your veterinarian will prescribe an antibiotic to give by mouth. Some antibiotics can be given in tablet form once per day, but most antibiotics for your cat will be in liquid form. Typical dosage is one teaspoon by mouth, twice a day for 10 days. Be certain you have given your cat all of the antibiotics, even if he is beginning to feel better. She may feel better, but the infection could still be present.

    Cranberry Extract

    • Cranberry extract can be found in pill form at your local health food store. Give your cat 250 mg of cranberry extract a day to help eliminate and prevent UTI's. Cranberry makes the urine more acidic. The bacteria that causes the UTI will find it hard to survive in acidic urine. Cranberry extract also prevents the bacteria from clinging to the walls of the urinary tract.

    Yoghurt

    • Fresh yoghurt helps restore the natural balance in the urinary tract. You can use this in conjunction with an antibiotic treatment to help quickly relieve the infection. Allow your cat to eat a few tablespoons of yoghurt a few times per day.

    Fresh Water

    • Provide your cat with fresh, clean water at all times. Water can help flush the infection out of the cats body. This is extremely important while he is recovering from the infection. Fresh water will help keep the bladder clean while the antibiotics are killing the infection.

    Herbs

    • Some herbs that are known for healing properties for UTIs are punanava, gokshur, kush and ikshu. All of these herbs come from the traditional Indian medical system known as Ayurevedic medicine. These herbs should be given based on weight. Check with your veterinarian before giving your cat any herbs. If your veterinarian is familiar with herbal or Ayurvedic medicine, she or she can give you the proper dose for your pet and can tell you which ones are right for your cat.