Pets Care

Normally canine and feline urinary incontinence or frequent urination leads to investigations that involve blood and urine tests for the pet. Frequent and severe urinary infections may be the initial warnings of the presence of a tumor in the bladder.

The most common type of bladder cancer arises in the epithelial cells that line the bladder (Transitional Cell Carcinoma).

The tumor can also be in the glandular epithelium (Adenocarcinoma) or in an epithelial cell that is flat like a plate and forms a single layer of epithelial tissue (Squamous Cell Carcinoma). A highly malignant neoplasm derived from striated muscle (Rhabdomyosarcoma) is rare.

Many symptoms of a bladder cancer are similar to those observed in urinary tract infection in dogs. The first signs are likely to be discomfort in urinating. If you see blood in the urine, you should act immediately since the blood indicates the presence of a growth in the bladder. Some dogs may show signs of exercise intolerance, difficulty in breathing and coughing too. 

As with all types of cancers the cause behind the growth is not easily determinable. The common suspects are carcinogenic substances like chemicals in insecticides for killing fleas and ticks and/or mosquitoes in wetlands. Cyclophosphamide, a drug used to treat different types of cancers and certain immune diseases, may also increase the risk of bladder cancer.

Bladder cancer can remain undetected for a long time. It is highly recommended that any occurrence of the symptoms of urinary tract infection in cats  and dogs should be investigated completely if you want to ensure early detection and treatment of cancer.

This is because if urinalysis and blood tests do not reveal a definite diagnosis, bladder cancer can be suspected and investigated further.

An X-Ray usually reveals if there is any type of growth but follow up investigations are resorted to establish the type and nature of the growth. These investigations could lead you to undertake the following:

-    Cytology - For examining and evaluating tumor cells.
-    Either Contrast dye X-Ray or Abdominal Ultrasound - For the purpose of establishing the location and size of the tumor. An ultrasound provides additional knowledge of the condition of the lymph nodes.
-    Urethrocystoscopy - Performed by a veterinarian specialist as it involves introduction of a rigid or flexible scope through the urethra up to the bladder. Along with revealing the location and size of the tumor, this procedure can also be used for biopsy.

If Transitional Cell Carcinoma is suspected the specialist may suggest a new test called V-TBA for determining the likely presence of a bladder tumor marker in the urine.

Benign tumors of the bladder are rare but if they occur they can be removed surgically. Most bladder cancers are malignant and these invade the wall of the bladder and are difficult to remove through surgery. The most common treatment approach that is used currently is to treat the condition with chemotherapy or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Bladder cancer is difficult to treat but, if left untreated, it may ultimately cause a cessation of urination and death.

References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bladder_cancer_in_cats_and_dogs feline urinary incontinencehttp://www.petplace.com/dogs/urinary-bladder-cancer-in-dogs/page6.aspx
http://www.vet.purdue.edu/pcop/CanineUrinaryBladderCancer.pdf

Urinary tract infections can be as troublesome for your pet as it is for you. UTI in puppies and adult dogs is marked by an extremely irritating symptom - urinating at odd places despite the dog having been toilet trained.

However, getting irritated and angry with your pet is not the solution since he is not to blame. In most cases you ailing dog may not even be aware of the dribbles as they pass out involuntarily.

Severe instances of canine and feline urinary infection are mostly caused due to bladder stones that block the urethral passage. Despite a full bladder the dog is unable to urinate even when he tries hard. The back pressure of the urine often forces urine around the blockage to leak out in small quantities at a time.

Urinary tract infection in dogs is a fairly common condition. UTI can lead to the formation of bladder stones and bladder stones, in turn, can obstruct the free flow of urine that promotes infection in the accumulated urine.

Both UTI and bladder stones tend to recur frequently, which can make life quite uncomfortable for the ailing dog. However, if you take proper care from the beginning you can be instrumental in avoiding either of the problems and ensure an easier life for your pet.

Urine is normally sterile. Bacteria usually travel upwards from the urethral opening to infect the urinary tract. Keep your pet clean with increased attention to the genital areas. If your pet is prone to develop UTI frequently, wipe its bottom every time after urination, especially in the case of female dogs.

This is because the female urethra is very small and bacteria can climb up to the bladder easily. Female dogs that have been spayed at an early age tend to grow loose tissue and urine tends to gather around it.

Dogs that drink less water urinate less. This allows urine to collect in the bladder. Stale urine inside the body is a sure invitation to bacterial infections. Give additional fluids to your dog. Sometimes, dogs refuse to drink water because of chemicals in the drinking water.

It is advisable to give your dog filtered or spring water to drink. If possible, keep water bowls at his favorite places. If you still find that the dog is not drinking enough water, feed him moist foods or add a little bit of chicken froth or water to dry food.

Avoid giving foods that contain preservatives and additives. These can weaken the dog’s immune system. With restricted natural defense against bacterial invasion the animal becomes more vulnerable to infections. Home cooked and natural foods are best for overall health of your pet.

Home care and prevention reduces the risk of UTI in dogs to a great extent. Despite your efforts if you notice blood in the dog’s urine, straining to urinate or a bad odor in the urine, it is time to take him to the veterinarian for a check up.

References:
http://www.preciouspets.org/newsletters/articles/urinary-tract-infections.htm

Canine or feline urinary incontinence presages other ailments that could be worse and difficult to treat. There is a strong possibility of diabetes or other endocrinal disorder co-occurring with canine and feline urinary infection.

If the bacteria travel beyond the urethra or bladder, urinary tract infection in dogs also carries the risk of spreading to organs like the kidney and even the heart.

It is therefore extremely pertinent to understand how urinary tract infections can be prevented. Detection of symptoms at an early stage also helps since UTI is easily treatable with antibiotics. if the condition is attended to in time, critical damage to other organs can be avoided.

Early detection is possible if you keep a look out for the initial signs of urinary tract infection in dogs, which include:

* Frequent urination often at places the dog is not supposed to.
* Whining or yelping in pain when trying to urinate.
* Cloudy urine.
* Pus or Blood in urine.
* Crystals in urine.
* Making an effort but not actually urinating.
* Frequent licking of the genital area.
* Foul smelling urine.
* Incontinence, inability to control urine.
* Tenderness in the area near the bladder.
* Fever and lethargy.
* Pain in lower back.

Many of these symptoms are common and are similar to other diseases. Painful urination, incontinence, hematuria (blood in urine), and lumbar pain are associated with diabetes, benign or malignant growth in the bladder, kidney masses and prostatitis.

Breeds like miniature schnauzer, dachshund, Dalmatian, pug, bulldog, Welsh corgi, basset hound, beagle and terrier are genetically predisposed to urinary calculi (hard lump produced by the concretion of mineral salts in the urine). A veterinarian will usually advise urinalysis and urine culture to rule out other causes of urinary problems before going in for treatment of urinary infection in dogs.

The encouraging part is that urinary tract infection in dogs can be easily prevented by taking some simple measures. Holding urine for too long often leads to development of bacteria in the accumulated urine. If your dog is dehydrated easy elimination of urine is hampered, which too can cause urine to remain in the bladder for too long.

To facilitate easy passing out of urine make sure that the dog bowl is always filled with fresh and clean water. Keep track of the dog’s need to urinate and ensure he has easy access to the designated place whenever the need arises. Complete emptying of the bladder is necessary to prevent UTI in puppies as well as adult dogs.

Ingestion of toxins and chemicals can lead to a situation where the body organs have to over work. This in turn leads to poor performance of important organs like the kidney and the liver. Passive smoking not only harms humans it is injurious to dogs also. Keep the environment around your dog as clean as you can.

The urinary tract is normally sterile. The urethra is the most common entry point of bacteria. Humans are normally advised to keep their private parts clean. If possible, do as much as you can keep the dog’s genitals clean.

References:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Canine-Urinary-Infections-and-Symptoms&id=570265

http://www.thepetcheckup.com/

Nearly the same antibiotics used to treat urinary tract infection in humans are the ones that are used to treat canine and feline urinary tract infection. Several natural remedies and herbs can also used to help boost the immune system and to resist such infections.

However, before any treatment starts, it is useful to get the condition duly diagnosed since the early signs of urinary tract infection in dogs and cats could be signs of some underlying endocrinal disorders like diabetes. It is also necessary to rule out the presence of bladder stones, identify the location of the infection and identify the location of the disease-causing- bacterium that responsible for it. This necessitates a urinalysis and a urine culture.

The root cause of the UTI can be diagnosed in most cases and only a small proportion is idiopathic or without any known cause. The causal factors can help in identifying the right antibiotic and in providing quick relief to the suffering animal.

Another aspect of urinary tract infection in dogs and cats is the recurring nature of such conditions in most cases. It has an inherent quality of recurring, despite the initial remission of the disease. Even though the antibiotics required to treat urinary tract infections are strong and concentrated, an overdose of these can lead to a resistance to the drug.

This occurs because the bacteria become immune to specific medication and a result in a consequent suppression of the immune system. Therefore, there is a strong case for adopting preventive measures to guard against recurring canine and feline urinary infection and to avoid frequent administration of antibiotics.

* Water intake is of prime importance. Make sure that your dog has easy access to clean water. Do not allow your dog to get dehydrated. Urea is a chief solid component of mammalian urine and although the kidneys require a minimal quantity of water to dilute and excrete it as urine, the dog’s body should always have sufficient water for the process to be accomplished successfully.
* House trained dogs will hold urine till the time they get an opportunity to go to the designated area where they have been trained to urinate. Holding urine for long is not advisable for humans or dogs as it can lead to bladder infection. Allow for at least one opportunity to urinate, every four hours.
* Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals. Buy dog food that is accredited and made by reputed companies. Ensure that the dog food that you buy is suitable for your dog’s breed and free from fillers. Also ensure that you feed him plenty of raw and unprocessed meat.
* Exercise and a stress free environment, are equally necessary. Provide enough opportunities to exercise and give your dog his place to relax and unwind.
* Supplemental vitamin B helps in promoting kidney health. You may also give cranberry juice capsules daily to prevent new bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls.

Following such measure can prevent urinary tract infections and also put a stop to recurring ones. Such measures can provide respite from feline urinary incontinence that occurs as a result of infections in the urinary tract and many other frustrating symptoms.

References:

http://www.askariel.com/product_details.asp?itemid=uti
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Dog-Food-Canine-3799/2008/1/UTI-13-wk-old.htm

An infected bladder can cause a strong urge to urinate and is a primary cause of canine and feline urinary incontinence. A long standing bladder infection can damage the bladder rendering it unable to stretch when there is a need to hold urine.

In general cases of urinary incontinence the dog is unaware of dribbling or the passing of urine. However, when incontinence is cause due to a bladder infection the dog is aware of the urination but is unable to control the urge, which compels him to urinate at places where he is not meant to.

Bladder infection is more common in female dogs and affects the lower urinary tract. Though the urinary tract is otherwise sterile, the urethral opening, through which urine is passed out, is the entry point for the bacteria.

These bacteria cause urinary tract infection in dogs. Bladder infection can occur at any age and UTI in puppies is also a common occurrence.

Dogs with an infected bladder tend to empty the bladder partially each time that they urinate. This occurs due to a difficulty in emptying the entire urinary bladder in one go and makes the urine extremely smelly. The urine may sometimes contain blood due to severe infections caused by calculi, cancer, or a tumor.

The diagnosis of urinary tract infections is not complicated at all. A simple laboratory examination of the urine and blood often determines its prevalence. The vet may suggest a urine culture to identify the pathogen that is causing the infection to be able to prescribe the most effective antibiotic.

Since dribbling and urination in undesignated places can cause a fair amount of frustration among owners, the first attempt to cure such a condition is a complete diagnoses followed up with treatment. Treatment modalities for bacterial bladder infection are different from what is required if the problem is due to some other condition and therefore consulting an expert is the best option.

Most of the lower urinary tract infections are simple to treat and dogs usually respond well to antibiotics. Bladder infection that does not respond to antibiotics necessitates further investigation. And your pet may need to undergo an X-Ray of the bladder to confirm whether there is any formation of crystals, calculi or any indication of a tumor in the bladder.

References:

http://www.dogchannel.com/dog-books/dog-bladder-infection.asp

http://www.ygrr.org/doginfo/health-bladder.html

http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/ClientED/incont.aspx

A natural filter in the urinary system

The kidneys have a number of very important life-sustaining functions. These include excretion, fluid conservation, and endocrine processes. The kidneys filter waste products from the bloodstream, so that they may be excreted from the body in the urine.

They kidneys act as natural ‘sieves’ of the body, filtering out goodness from ingested food and liquids and leaving waste to be excreted. Animals cannot function properly if their systems are not ‘clean’ of toxins. The kidneys also produce hormones, including erythropoietin, which stimulates the bone marrow to produce new red blood cells.

The natural way

There are a number of things that we can do for our pets to prolong the healthy functioning of the kidneys. Make sure that your pet always has access to fresh, clean water. Make sure that dogs have the opportunity to urinate often and cats have access to a clean litter tray, so that they do not have to hold the urine in for unnecessarily long periods of time.

Feed a good natural diet low in salt, phosphorous and relatively low in protein. As your pet gets older, regular check ups at the vet are advised so that progress of the kidneys can be monitored. Our pets are exposed to a variety of toxins that are particularly harmful to the kidneys.

Anti-freeze is one of the most dangerous as it tastes relatively pleasant and can easily be lapped up by your dog or cat if left lying around. Certain antibiotics are also very toxic to the kidneys – try and go the natural way.

How can natural remedies help?

In the wild, animals instinctively eat plants and other natural substances to help them to maintain health in different organs, including the kidneys.

By supporting the body’s natural healing capacity and assisting the body in maintaining harmonious balance between all organ systems, herbal remedies bring about good health naturally – providing benefits that may be missing from the diet of domestic animals.

Traditional medicine has been used for thousands of years to support health and to enhance wellbeing. Clinical trials are proving the efficacy of many natural therapies and more pet owners are becoming aware of the benefits of providing their pets with the benefits of Mother Nature’s medicine chest!

What is Kidney Support?

Kidney Support is a 100% safe, natural remedy formulated by a team of experts in the field of natural medicine.

Used regularly, Kidney Support will promote kidney functioning, support healthy blood pressure within the normal range and encourage excretion of waste products - thus providing support for optimum performance of the canine or feline urinary tract system!

Kidney Support contains herbal ingredients especially selected to address canine & feline kidney health and provide support to the urinary tract system.

Kidney Support is presented in a concentrated tincture formula, making it easy to administer to animals disguised in their food or favorite treat.

The formula remains true to the whole spectrum method of herbal extraction, ensuring the bio-availability and balance of all the active ingredients contained in the remedy. This method of manufacture also significantly reduces the likelihood of side effects and maintains all active ingredients in perfect balance – exactly as nature intended!

Use PetAlive Kidney Support to:

* Promote urinary tract health
* Support kidney function
* Support water balance and fluid regulation
* Support the kidneys in carrying out the natural function of converting Vitamin D to its active form
* Encourage the production of certain hormones including those involved in red blood cell formation and blood pressure regulation
* Encourage the excretion of waste products produced during metabolic activities in the body

Related Products:

* To naturally detox and ‘flush out’ your pet’s system visit PetAlive Detox Plus

How has Kidney Support helped others?

“We have a neighbor who uses your FCV-Protect product and she said we should look on your site for a remedy. We chose this product, (Kidney Support) and we are glad to say that our dog is doing very well! Thank you very much!”

—David

“Our young cat Alfonso needed support for his kidneys, and our vet (who has a keen interest in natural remedies) recommended Kidney Support. Alfonso is doing great, and I am so relieved to know that using a natural product means that we are not harming his body! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts”

—Rita

“Just a quick shout out to let you know that this product has helped our two terriers immensely – keep up the great work!!!”

—The Tomlinson’s

What are the Ingredients?

Native Remedies’ products are created using our Full Spectrum Approach™ (FSA), a set of standards and processes that combine the best quality, laboratory tested, raw ingredients, Good Manufacturing Practices and a Full Spectrum manufacturing method to guarantee you products of the highest quality, safety and effectiveness, all backed by our One Year Unconditional Money Back Guarantee.

Our products are not tested on animals and individual ingredients are well-researched and are natural, safe and effective.

* Arctium lappa (Burdock) is widely known as a systemic cleanser and blood purifier, Burdock is also an effective digestive tonic and helps to support healthy blood sugar regulation. It is also well known for its ability to maintain balance in body fluid levels and can help the kidneys in their natural action of flushing out toxins. Burdock has also shown positive results in helping to maintain blood sugar levels within the normal range. (Swanston-Flatt SK, Day C, Flatt PR, et al. “Glycaemic effects of traditional European plant treatments for diabetes. Studies in normal and streptozotocin diabetic mice. Diabetes” Res . 1989;413:69–73. )

* Taraxacum officinalis (Dandelion) is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, D, and C, as well as various B Vitamins, iron, lecithin, silicon, potassium, magnesium, zinc and manganese. It helps naturally to promote a healthy appetite and may also support the maintenance of blood sugar levels within the normal range due to its positive effects on fluid balance.(Rcz-Kotilla, E., G. Rcz, A. Solomon. 1974. “The action of Taraxacum officinale extracts on the body weight and diuresis of laboratory animals.” Planta Med 26(3):212217.)

* Galium aperine(Cleavers) is an herb which has been used in folk medicine for many centuries as a cleansing tonic, lymphatic cleanser and blood purifier. Regular use helps to support all mechanisms of the urinary system.

How do I use Kidney Support?

DIRECTIONS

The drops may be mixed into a small amount of food or added to a bit of water and syringed into your pet’s mouth.

* Cats and small dogs: 2-3 drops 2 to 3 times a day
* Medium dogs: 5-10 drops 2 to 3 times a day
* Large dogs: 10-15 drops 2 to 3 times a day.

CAUTION

Please consult your veterinarian should symptoms persist. Safety during pregnancy and nursing is not yet established

Kidney Support is highly recommended along with the following natural remedies for maximum effectiveness.

* Immunity and Liver Support is used for natural systemic support for the liver with immune system tonic!
* Detox Plus contains natural ingredients to ‘flush out’ your pet’s system (our animals need detox too!)
* RuniPoo Relief supports firm healthy stools and promotes digestive stability!

How long until I see results?

Results may vary, due to a number of influential factors and some animals will respond sooner than others. When used regularly, Kidney Support should provide systemic support within the first week. Over time Kidney Support will then act in a supportive capacity to systemic balance and harmony in the urinary system.

How long will a bottle last?

One bottle of Kidney Support will last approximately 30 days depending on frequency of use.

Symptoms of UTI infection in pets

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are uncomfortable and extremely painful. They tend to be more common in cats than dogs and can be caused by bacterial infection, bladder stones or urolithiasis (stones in the urinary tract).

UTIs often recur and can lead to more serious kidney infections if left untreated. Symptoms include

* Straining to urinate
* Obvious pain or discomfort when urinating
* Constantly licking their genitals
* Frequent urination without passing much urine
* Urinating in unusual places
* Cloudy or bloody urine
* Fever and loss of condition

What is the conventional treatment?

Conventional treatment of UTIs will depend on the specific cause of the problem. In many cases, antibiotics are prescribed which invariably relieve the animal’s symptoms rather speedily.

However antibiotics tend to have a general weakening effect on the immune system which can cause further problems, especially in the long-term and particularly if they are prescribed regularly for recurrent infections.

What is PetAlive UTI-Free?

UTI-Free is a selected combination of herbal and homeopathic ingredients especially formulated to safely and effectively treat the causes and the symptoms of urinary tract and bladder infections in pets.

Use PetAlive UTI-Free To:

* Naturally treat the symptoms of UTI infections in pets
* Maintain urinary tract and bladder health
* Prevent recurring infections

What are the ingredients of PetAlive UTI-Free?

PetAlive UTI-Free contains the following 100% natural ingredients:

(Contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

Arctostaphylos uva ursi is a well known urinary antiseptic and excellent treatment for cystitis and all urinary tract problems. This herb contains the glycoside arbutin as the main active constituent. Hydroquinone derived from arbutin and methylarbutin is a powerful anti-bacterial agent and is thought to be responsible for uva ursi’s ability to treat urinary tract infections.

Berberis vulgaris: This widely studied herb contains berberine as a main constituent. Berberine is a recognized antibacterial agent and has been shown to kill amoebae in test tube studies. It also prevents bacteria from attaching to cell walls, reduces inflammation and strengthens immune functioning, thereby warding off infection and acting as a preventative as well as a natural antibiotic. Berberis also helps to treat the symptoms of diarrhea, especially if related to E.Coli infection.

Cantharis C6 is prescribed homeopathically for a variety of conditions, including severe cystitis and the burning urine associated with bladder infections, as well as the inability to pass more than a few drops of urine at a time.

Staphysagris C6 is a proven homeopathic remedy also recommended for urogenital problems such as cystitis, as well as urine retention sometimes associated with prostate problems.

Lactose (inactive ingredient)

How has PetAlive UTI-Free helped others?

“Your UTI Free quickly brought relief to our cat who was visiting the sandbox rather too often. She has had previous bladder infections so we could recognize the symptoms early. Just a few doses had her back to normal again with no need for a visit to the vet and the invariable antibiotics.” - Owen G.

“Due to diabetes our cat has ut infections very often no matter what we do. I think the antibiotics make it worse and with your UTI product there is a big improvement since her last infection which cleared very fast and has not returned. Thank you for all the help.” - Belinda Travis.

“I am very happy to report that the UTI-Free cleared the infection within days and it has not returned. I will keep it handy for when we need it again.” - Tobias

How do we use UTI-Free?

PetAlive UTI-Free comes in convenient dissolvable granule form. The fine granules are easy to administer to pets of all sizes and personalities and are simply sprinkled on the back of the tongue and left to dissolve. No fuss and bother!

Cats and small dogs: Large pinch of granules sprinkled into the mouth.
Small to medium dogs: Half fill inner circle of lid and sprinkle into mouth.
Medium to large dogs: Fill inner circle of lid and sprinkle into mouth.

Acute Conditions: Administer every 30 minutes for up to 6 doses a day or until symptoms subside. Thereafter administer two to three times daily for at least 7 days more or for as long as is necessary.

Chronic Use (for animals with recurring UTI-infections): Two doses of PetAlive UTI-Free daily to maintain urinary tract health.

How long until we see results?

Symptoms should begin to clear within a few days and should be under control within 7 - 10 days.

If your pet is run down or has recently been on antibiotics, it is recommended that you also administer a 10 - 14 day course of Immunity and Liver Support to strengthen functioning of the immune system.

How long does one bottle last?

One bottle of PetAlive UTI-Free will last 15 - 30 days depending on usage and size of your pet.

What else can I do to help my pet?

* Avoid dehydration and ensure your pet has easy access to fresh water in a regularly cleaned bowl. Filtered or bottled water is preferable to chlorinated or fluorinated water.
* Your pet needs easy access to a place where he can urinate whenever he needs to. “Holding it in” for long periods of time can lead to chronic bladder problems.
* Ensure your pet is eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food (preferably organic). Avoid dried foods as much as possible and do not give your pet anything containing sugar.
* Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals as much as possible including pesticides, herbicides, commercial flea collars, flea powder, insecticides and second-hand cigarette smoke.
* Use Immunity and Liver Support capsules to boost your pet’s immune functioning and resistance against disease and infection.
* Talk to a holistic vet before immunizing your pet. Over-vaccination may stress the immune system unnecessarily and result in a vulnerability to recurring infection.
* Regular exercise will help to keep your pet healthy and fit.
* Minimize the stress in your pet’s environment.

The kidneys are responsible for filtering the blood and removing toxins in an animals system. Kidney damage may result from several sources, but the aging process is probably the most common reason for this disease. No cure is available but many things can be done to help the pet live a more comfortable life.

The best way to express the reason for kidney failure/disease in an aging pet is that the kidney cells just begin to wear out. Cells are lost throughout the pets life on a gradual basis. As the pet ages and these cells are lost the neighboring cells must work twice as hard to compensate for the loss. As a result, kidney disease may be present long before any visible signs are shown.

Tests can be done to diagnose this problem through blood and urine samples long before symptoms of kidney failure are apparent. Some symptoms include increased water consumption, increased urination and lack of bladder control. Additionally, the dog may lose weight, go off its food, show weakness or vomit.

Once kidney damage has been diagnosed there are several things you can do to minimize the dogs discomfort such as diet management which is very important in dogs with kidney failure.

Certain restrictions may include: restricting phosphorus which may help in hormonal and mineral imbalance; restricting proteins which also may help cut out overwork by the kidneys in trying to filter out the protein by-products; sodium restriction is highly recommended since dogs with kidney failure are at high risk for hypertension (high blood pressure); water soluble vitamins, especially B vitamins, can help replace those lost by the damaged kidneys; an increase in potassium is good since the damaged kidneys lose many important vitamins and minerals.

No cure is available but many things can be done to help the pet live a more comfortable life.

About the Author

Pedigreed Pups is a website offering the best purebred dog breed information, online resources and high-quality dog content for all dog owners, dog lovers and those considering dog ownership. Debbie is the owner of pedigreedpups.com, a dog lover, owner and dog breeder of many years.

Symptoms of UTI infection in pets

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are uncomfortable and extremely painful. They tend to be more common in cats than dogs and can be caused by bacterial infection, bladder stones or urolithiasis (stones in the urinary tract).

UTIs often recur and can lead to more serious kidney infections if left untreated.

Symptoms include

• Straining to urinate
• Obvious pain or discomfort when urinating
• Constantly licking their genitals
• Frequent urination without passing much urine
• Urinating in unusual places
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Fever and loss of condition

What is the conventional treatment?

Conventional treatment of UTIs will depend on the specific cause of the problem. In many cases, antibiotics are prescribed which invariably relieve the animal’s symptoms rather speedily.

However antibiotics tend to have a general weakening effect on the immune system which can cause further problems, especially in the long-term and particularly if they are prescribed regularly for recurrent infections.

What is UTI-Free?

UTIFree is a selected combination of herbal and homeopathic ingredients especially formulated to safely and effectively treat the causes and the symptoms of urinary tract and bladder infections in pets.

Use PetAlive UTIFree To:

• Naturally treat the symptoms of UTI infections in pets
• Maintain urinary tract and bladder health
• Prevent recurring infections

What are the ingredients of PetAlive UTIFree?

PetAlive UTIFree contains the following 100% natural ingredients:

(Contains no gluten, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives)

Arctostaphylos uva ursi is a well known urinary antiseptic and excellent treatment for cystitis and all urinary tract problems. This herb contains the glycoside arbutin as the main active constituent. Hydroquinone derived from arbutin and methylarbutin is a powerful anti-bacterial agent and is thought to be responsible for uva ursi’s ability to treat urinary tract infections.

Berberis vulgaris: This widely studied herb contains berberine as a main constituent. Berberine is a recognized antibacterial agent and has been shown to kill amoebae in test tube studies. It also prevents bacteria from attaching to cell walls, reduces inflammation and strengthens immune functioning, thereby warding off infection and acting as a preventative as well as a natural antibiotic. Berberis also helps to treat the symptoms of diarrhea, especially if related to E.Coli infection.

Cantharis C6 is prescribed homeopathically for a variety of conditions, including severe cystitis and the burning urine associated with bladder infections, as well as the inability to pass more than a few drops of urine at a time.

Staphysagris C6 is a proven homeopathic remedy also recommended for urogenital problems such as cystitis, as well as urine retention sometimes associated with prostate problems.

Lactose (inactive ingredient)

How has PetAlive UTIFree helped others?

“Your UTI Free quickly brought relief to our cat who was visiting the sandbox rather too often. She has had previous bladder infections so we could recognize the symptoms early. Just a few doses had her back to normal again with no need for a visit to the vet and the invariable antibiotics.” - Owen G.

“Due to diabetes our cat has ut infections very often no matter what we do. I think the antibiotics make it worse and with your UTI product there is a big improvement since her last infection which cleared very fast and has not returned. Thank you for all the help.” - Belinda Travis.

“I am very happy to report that the UTI-Free cleared the infection within days and it has not returned. I will keep it handy for when we need it again.” - Tobias

How do we use UTIFree?

PetAlive UTIFree comes in convenient dissolvable granule form. The fine granules are easy to administer to pets of all sizes and personalities and are simply sprinkled on the back of the tongue and left to dissolve. No fuss and bother!

Cats and small dogs: Large pinch of granules sprinkled into the mouth.
Small to medium dogs: Half fill inner circle of lid and sprinkle into mouth.
Medium to large dogs: Fill inner circle of lid and sprinkle into mouth.

Acute Conditions: Administer every 30 minutes for up to 6 doses a day or until symptoms subside. Thereafter administer two to three times daily for at least 7 days more or for as long as is necessary.

Chronic Use (for animals with recurring UTI infections): Two doses of PetAlive UTIFree daily to maintain urinary tract health.

How long until we see results?

Symptoms should begin to clear within a few days and should be under control within 7 - 10 days.

If your pet is run down or has recently been on antibiotics, it is recommended that you also administer a 10 - 14 day course of Immunity and Liver Support to strengthen functioning of the immune system.

How long does one bottle last?

One bottle of PetAlive UTIFree will last 15 - 30 days depending on usage and size of your pet.

What else can I do to help my pet?

• Avoid dehydration and ensure your pet has easy access to fresh water in a regularly cleaned bowl. Filtered or bottled water is preferable to chlorinated or fluorinated water.
• Your pet needs easy access to a place where he can urinate whenever he needs to. ‘Holding it in’ for long periods of time can lead to chronic bladder problems.
• Ensure your pet is eating a balanced, high quality diet with plenty of raw and unprocessed food (preferably organic). Avoid dried foods as much as possible and do not give your pet anything containing sugar.
• Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals as much as possible including pesticides, herbicides, commercial flea collars, flea powder, insecticides and second-hand cigarette smoke.
• Use Immunity and Liver Support capsules to boost your pet’s immune functioning and resistance against disease and infection.
• Talk to a holistic vet before immunizing your pet. Over-vaccination may stress the immune system unnecessarily and result in a vulnerability to recurring infection.
• Regular exercise will help to keep your pet healthy and fit.
• Minimize the stress in your pet’s environment.