Bladder stones are a common occurrence in dogs and cats.  Several factors are involved in their development including diet, change in urine pH, and formation of crystals.  Encouraging a less acidic urine or urine with a higher pH can help reduce or prevent the risk of certain bladder stones forming. Urinary tract infections are also commonly associated with bladder stones.  Cranberry extract is a natural supplement that supports a healthy urinary tract. 

• Potassium Citrate is a supplement that promotes a higher urine pH (less acidic) and reduces the risk of calcium oxalate bladder stone formation
• Cranberry Extract is a supplement that contains “proanthocyanidins” which helps to support and maintain a healthy urinary tract by reducing the number of certain bacteria from attaching to the bladder wall
• These products are given by mouth and are commonly available as granules and/or chewable tablets.

• Commonly used to help prevent or reduce the risk of calcium oxalate bladder stones
• Commonly used to help prevent urinary tract infections

• Should not be used in animals with a history of struvite crystals or bladder stones
• Should not be used in animals with high blood levels of potassium such as with adrenal disease, kidney disease, or untreated diabetes mellitus
• Should not be used in animals with severe heart or kidney disease
• These supplements are not a replacement for appropriate antibiotic treatment when an active urinary tract infection is present
• Safety in breeding, pregnant, or nursing animals has not been established
• Animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this supplement should not take this product

Potassium Citrate + Cranberry Extract Supplements should be given according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Read and follow the product label carefully.

It is ideal to give this supplement at the same time daily.  This supplement should be given with food to avoid digestive upset.  If the formulation is applied on top of the food, ensure that your pet eats the full meal to receive the appropriate dose. 

Animals prone to bladder stones and urinary tract infections are frequently monitored with urine examinations or urinalysis.  If your pet is receiving this supplement, your veterinarian will want to monitor their urine.

Supplements are not regulated by the FDA.  As such, they have not been required to go through the same rigorous testing for efficacy that drugs undergo.  Many products on the market are high quality and are made by reputable companies.  Consult with your veterinarian to choose the right product for your pet.

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.

• What are some of the risk factors for urinary tract infections in your pet
• What are some of the risk factors for bladder stone formation in your pet
• What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this supplement
• When your pet may need to be re-examined
• What are the risks and benefits of using this supplement

• If your pet has experienced side effects on other drugs/products
• If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies
• If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
• All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medications can be given together.
• If your pet is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your pet in the near future

Potassium Citrate + Cranberry Extract Supplements should be stored in a childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.

• These products are usually well tolerated and adverse reactions are uncommon at recommended doses
• Could affect the gastrointestinal system causing inappetence, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Notify your veterinarian immediately if your pet experiences any adverse reactions to this product

• Commonly used in combination with antibiotics when treating active urinary tract infections
• Caution is advised when using with ACE inhibitors (benazepril and enalapril) antacids, aspirin, digoxin, fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin), heparin, NSAIDs, and spironolactone
• Drugs not listed may also interact with Potassium Citrate + Cranberry Extract Supplements
• Do not give new food or medications without first talking to your veterinarian
• If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet receives more than the recommended amount.

Notify your veterinarian if your pet’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

As with all supplements, it should only be given to the pet for which it was recommended.

This is just a summary of information about Potassium Citrate + Cranberry Extract Supplements.  If you have any questions or concerns about this product or for the condition it was recommended, please contact your veterinarian.