Urinary Tract Infections in Cats & Dogs: Timing Your Dosages

Author: Dr. Jason Nicholas

Published: June 6, 2022

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uti medication for petsHow can you make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck when giving your pet an antibiotic for their urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in both cats and dogs, and most pets will find themselves on an antibiotic to treat a UTI at some point in their life.

The specific antibiotic and length of treatment can vary from case to case and will be best determined by your veterinarian.

But did you know that there is one simple step you can take that can increase the effectiveness of your pet's UTI antibiotic? There is, and it's as simple as timing.

Medication Dosage Tip — Timing Can Help

By giving the antibiotic after their first-morning pee and/or after their last pee of the evening, you ensure that the antibiotic has the longest possible stay within your pet's bladder – the site where it needs to be to do its job most effectively.

This tip is useful regardless of whether the antibiotic is a "once a day" or "twice a day" medication. Talk to your veterinarian and give it a shot.

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About the author

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Dr. Jason Nicholas

Dr. Nicholas graduated with honors from The Royal Veterinary College in London, England and completed his Internship at the Animal Medical Center in New York City. He currently lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Dr. Nicholas spent many years as an emergency and general practice veterinarian obsessed with keeping pets safe and healthy. He is the author of Preventive Vet’s 101 Essential Tips book series.

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