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What antibiotics should cats with urinary tract infections take?
Before the urine bacteria culture results are available, it is recommended to use broad-spectrum antibiotics that can form high concentrations of drugs in the urine, such as ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, and quinolones. Urinary tract infections in cats mainly include urethritis and cystitis. Under suitable conditions, it is advised to choose antibiotics sensitive to the bacteria based on the urine bacteria culture.
Urinary tract infections mainly manifest as urethritis symptoms. Urethritis refers to the inflammation of the urethral mucosa, and its clinical manifestations are characterized by frequent urination. Infected cats may show frequent visits to the litter box. The causes of urethritis are mainly due to the spread of inflammation from adjacent organs or poor catheterization hygiene. Clinical manifestations of urethritis include frequent urination, intermittent urine output, and pain. During palpation or catheterization, the cat shows pain, restlessness, and resistance to the veterinarian's examination.
When urinary tract infections are severe, the urethral mucosa will show erosion, ulcers, necrosis, or scar tissue, resulting in urethral strictures or blockages. In severe cases, urine retention may occur. The diagnosis of urethritis involves clinical symptoms combined with x-ray examination. The treatment principles are to eliminate the cause, control the infection, and irrigate the urethra. Generally, 0.9% sodium chloride solution or metronidazole sodium chloride injection is used to irrigate the urethra. Antibiotics containing ingredients such as amoxicillin-clavulanate or systemic application of antibiotics like ampicillin and quinolones are recommended for cats with urinary tract infections.
The symptoms of cystitis and urethritis are similar, mainly manifesting as frequent urination, pain, and restlessness. The urine is turbid, mixed with mucus and blood. When touching the bladder area, the cat shows pain and restlessness, and the bladder is usually empty.