Home Remedies for Urinary Crystals in Cats

Over the course of my life as a mom to cats, I've owned or encountered many kitties who had problems with recurrent urinary crystals. My current cat, Ziggy, has had many recurrent issues with them and is now on a permanent regimen of home remedies to prevent them from returning. Urinary crystals are serious because they can block a cat's urethra, preventing the outflow of urine and eventually causing kidney damage and blood toxicity. For this reason, cats showing signs of crystals should be evaluated promptly by a vet and should receive proper treatment. In the mean time-- or as an adjunct to veterinary treatment-- here are some home remedies that can alleviate urinary crystals in cats.

Proper Diet

Feed your cat a high-quality food at all times, especially when he is dealing with urinary crystals or other forms of urinary tract disease. Foods that acidify urine are very useful for preventing the most common types of crystals, and the obstructions they cause. Most commercial cat foods are designed to do just that. However, if your cat is especially prone to urinary crystals, your vet may recommend a prescription diet.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C naturally acidifies a cat's urine. My vet told me that it was the treatment of choice before prescription cat foods came along. Talk to your vet about an appropriate dose and then give your cat vitamin C supplements according to your vet's recommendation. You might be able to give them in the form of a multivitamin treat, but it might be necessary to administer vitamin C in the form of a pill.

Extra Water

Copious amounts of water are necessary for diluting crystals in urine and enabling the cat to flush them from his urethra without pain or intense pressure. Provide your cat with several bowls of clean water throughout your home. If your veterinarian approves, you might also force your cat to drink water by squirting small amounts of it into his mouth. This measure isn't always necessary, but can be a helpful alternative to IV fluids.

Stress Relief

Cats often develop urinary problems in response to stress. Moving, a change of diet, a new baby, or a new pet can all contribute to metabolic disturbances that make your cat more prone to urinary crystals. Because of this, your vet is likely to recommend that you take measures to reduce stress in your cat's life. Give him plenty of praise, treats, reassurance, and attention. Minimize his exposure to potential stresses, like dogs, children, or other cats, while he recovers. A few days of relaxation can mean the world for your pet's health.

Of course, no home remedy can replace the vital role of appropriate veterinary care if your cat has developed urinary crystals. If your cat is showing symptoms of crystals, get in touch with his veterinarian a soon as possible to begin effective treatment. Your cat needs and deserves competent care.