Dogs and cats occasionally get infections of the urethra or bladder. UTIs make it difficult to urinate -- which is why your pet has to go so often. The urinary tract can get painfully inflamed. To keep UTIs under control, here’s what the vets recommend.
Pour some juice: It’s a home remedy for humans that works for pets too. Cranberry and orange and other citrus juices boost the acidity of the urine, reducing the number of bacteria and helping relieve discomfort. One problem may be getting your pet to drink it -- try mixing an ounce with her breakfast if she refuses to drink it from a bowl.
Provide frequent potty breaks: When urine remains in the bladder for a long time, any bacteria that happen to be floating around have more time to multiply, possibly causing infection-causing levels. It’s a good idea to let your pet outside every few hours to flush away bacteria before they cause a problem.
Ask for assistance: Your pet may have great control, but if the only times she goes outside are before you go to work and after you get home, bacteria have plenty of time to do their dirty work. If you can’t get home during the day, perhaps a neighbor would let her out for you.
Get those paws moving: Most dogs and cats can’t go around the block without making a deposit. Taking at least two 20 minute walks a day will increase urination and reduce the risk of infection.
*These tips are home remedies only and should not ever be used as a substitute for any treatment that may have been prescribed by your veterinarian. If your pet has a medical problem, we urge you to seek competent medical care.
Alice England
Makingstuffwithlove.etsy.com
2 comments:
Very true my disability dog gets urinary infections easy. To help prevent them she gets 1/2 a fresh orange and a vitamin C tablet in the am. meal and 3 tablespoons cranberry juice with the pm. meal. Since we started this no infections.
Thi is just a great post and great advice, from our own Dr Alice.
Love it. Keep these coming. They are so very informative and great.
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