Natural Remedies for Cat Urinary Tract Infections

If you've ever had to deal with a urinary tract infection, you know how uncomfortable and painful it is, so you can definitely relate if your cat is diagnosed with a UTI. But in order to really treat a urinary problem in canines and felines, you have to gain a deeper understanding of what causes this condition in the first place.

How and Why Urinary Tract Infections Occur

Bacterial infections of the urinary tract will result in symptoms that include fever, backache, painful and frequent urination, lethargy, and blood in the urine. Causes could be related to diet, but may also include immunological deficiency or fungal or protozoan infections. Other causes could be bladder stones, injuries, or tumors.

As soon as the bladder gets inflamed for any reason, you'll notice that your cat frequently tries to urinate. He or she will often end up urinating in inappropriate places, such as throughout the home rather than in the litter box or outside.

Cats and Crystals

In addition to inflammation, crystals are often found in cats affected with UTIs. Struvite crystals are the most common type, and they occur in urine that's too alkaline. The urine of a carnivore should be slightly acidic. Consuming high quality animal proteins and plenty of moisture will maintain this balance. Dry commercial foods are a major culprit in producing alkaline urine, so one of the first steps you can take to prevent and treat urinary problems is changing your pet's diet to a high quality canned food, homemade diet, or raw diet that's properly balanced.

Natural Remedies that Work

Rather than attacking the problem with antibiotics, which can lead to undesirable side effects, there are several herbal remedies that are effective at treating urinary tract infections in pets.

Juniper berry works very well when it comes to severe urinary tract infections. It's an herb known for increasing the rate at which the kidneys filter out impurities and it can, therefore, increase urine production.

Parsley leaf is an effective diuretic that can aid in the elimination of waste. And, in addition to being highly nutritious, parley leaves have antiseptic qualities that are great for treating urinary tract infections. 

Uva Ursi leaf is one of the most powerful natural astringents available. Holistic veterinarians use it to attack a variety of pathogens that are often the cause of UTIs. It can stop bleeding and reduce the inflammation associated with these infections.

Marshallow root works wonderfully when there's inflammation in the urinary tract because it stimulates the immune system and attacks bacteria that cause these infections, while also soothing the body and reducing irritation.

Final Thoughts

Urinary tract infections in pets are serious, so you definitely want to get your cat to the vet as soon as symptoms arise in order to get a clear diagnosis and begin treatment. Whether your pet's UTI is caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, or crystals, there are many natural remedies you can try if you wish to avoid harsh conventional treatments.