Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My kitty (6yr old male) is prone to urinary issues (crystals, blood in urine). I already am giving canned food (with some added water), but he still has bouts with it (granted, not nearly as often as when he was on 100% dried food!!!).

I have read that cranberry juice and/or ascorbic acid is good for treating/preventing urinary issues. What is a good daily dose to give to maintain urinary health (he is about 10-11lbs)?

Also, I have seen cranberry powder, tablets, paste, and extract. Any particular formulations/brands that you'd recommend?

Right now, I am taking 100% cranberry juice
and diluting it 1mL juice 2mL H20....giving him 3mL of the diluted solution in the morning and at night. It is a bit of a struggle to get it into him (I'm sure it is more than a bit sour for his taste buds!!), so I am interested in other options.

Another thing: I know that when I drink cranberry juice for a UTI (or take added Vit C for a cold), I end up with some stomach irritation. Is this a concern for my kitty as well? If so, how do I prevent it?

Thanks for your advice!

I got the impression from your posting that he is getting some canned food and some dry food. If this is so, STOP ALL DRY FOOD! NO CAT SHOULD BE EATING ANY DRY FOOD. Instead of the cranberry, you might try giving him d-mannose, which you should be able to ger from your healthfood store. Mix the contents of one capsule into his food at each meal.