Apple Cider Vinegar for Cat UTIs: Safe, Natural Relief

Treatment and Dosages

Apple cider vinegar, particularly the organic variety, is a highly effective natural remedy for a cat’s urinary tract infection (UTI), according to over 50 Earth Clinic readers. Incorporating apple cider vinegar into your cat's routine can help prevent chronic bladder infections, especially when combined with essential dietary modifications.

Administering Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Topical Application: The gentlest and most effective method is a topical application to the neck scruff and paw pads.
2. Syringe Method: Dilute the apple cider vinegar with equal water for syringe feeding. This diluted mixture should be stored in a jar for easy use.
3. Mixing with Food: If your cat is not a picky eater, mix the apple cider vinegar into their wet food.

Dosage Guidelines for Apple Cider Vinegar

• 15-20 pounds: ½ teaspoon (direct) or 1 teaspoon (diluted for syringe)
• 7-14 pounds: ¼ teaspoon (direct) or ½ teaspoon (diluted for syringe)
• 4-6 pounds: ⅛ teaspoon (direct) or ¼ teaspoon (diluted for syringe)
• Under 4 pounds: 5 drops (direct) or 10 drops (diluted for syringe)

Administer 2-3 times a day on the first two days, then reduce to 1-2 times a day for the rest of the week if symptoms improve.

How It Works

Apple cider vinegar combats urinary tract infections in cats by:

1. Creating an alkaline environment that's inhospitable to the microbes causing the infection.
2. Acting as a potent antimicrobial to eliminate these microbes.

Importance of Water

Proper hydration is crucial in preventing UTIs. Use purified spring water or well-sourced tap water. Since cats derive much of their water from food, it's important to consider the moisture content in their diet. Canned cat food, with about 78% water content, is preferable over dry cat food, which only contains 5-10% water.

Special Consideration for Diabetic Cats

For diabetic cats, any dietary change should be approached cautiously. Keep the carbohydrate intake below 7-10% of daily calories to avoid hypoglycemia.

Recognizing UTI Symptoms

Common signs of a urinary tract infection in cats include:

• Urinating outside the litter box.
• Frequent visits to the litter box.
• Blood in the urine.
• Signs of pain or discomfort.
• Increased water consumption.

Please share your experiences treating your cat's UTI using apple cider vinegar, and read tips from our readers who used ACV to treat their cats!

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