5 Natural Antibiotics for Cats

Our feline friends are not immune to infections and bacteria that can cause them to feel ill. Though antibiotics are usually the first defense against these agents, we understand the desire to take a more natural approach first. In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits of using a natural antibiotic for your cat, and some of the natural antibiotics for cats that we trust!

5 Best Natural Antibiotics for Cats

Why would a cat need antibiotics?

Cats can require antibiotics for a number of reasons. Whether they are couch potatoes or adventurous felines, each and every cat can experience a bacterial infection of some kind throughout their lives. Some of the most common infections that cats experience include:

• Skin infections
• Upper respiratory infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Gastrointestinal upset

Though the list of possible cat illnesses goes on, these are some of the most common issues that can benefit from a natural approach. While some infections can progress to the point of needing prescribed antibiotics, there is no harm in wanting to dip your toes into natural medicine for your furry friend. 

What is a natural antibiotic?

So what is a natural antibiotic? Since the term natural refers to something that is derived from nature and without artificial additives, a natural antibiotic is a substance that contains properties with a natural antiseptic. Since there was once a time before modern medicine existed, people became accustomed to substances that seemed to fight infection on their own. 

Whether it’s an herb with antibacterial properties or a combination of natural ingredients that fight off free radicals; the earth has a lot to offer when it comes to fighting the bad stuff naturally! So why would a cat owner want to use natural antibiotics versus prescribed antibiotics? Let’s dive into it!

What are the benefits of a natural antibiotic for cats?

Though prescribed antibiotics are needed in many situations, there are a number of cats that would benefit from more of a natural approach. Similar to humans, antibiotics can have a negative effect on our pets. Some cats are more sensitive to the addition of prescribed medications and can experience complications with anything that throws off their natural balance. 

Cats can experience gastrointestinal upset, allergies to the antibiotics themselves, and even resistance to medications over time. Because of this, many cats will have better luck with a natural substance that has antibacterial properties instead. 

So if your cat has sensitivities to antibiotics or you are just wanting to take a natural route in terms of their care, it may be time to explore the option of natural antibiotics for minor infections your furry friend may face!

5 Natural Antibiotics For Cats

Whether your cat has a stuffy nose or a mild skin infection, there are natural options that can offer them great relief! Some of the most popular natural antibiotics for cats include:

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is an incredible natural antibiotic that is still being used in animal clinics today. Due to its antibiotic and healing properties, manuka honey is an effective way to help heal minor and major wounds on the skin. By applying honey on an irritated or injured portion of the skin, you are able to suppress some bacteria growth and speed up the healing process of the skin. 

Many veterinarians rely on this honey in cases of serious burns, as its abilities to stimulate healthy growth and healing are unmatched. You should always speak with your vet first before using it. Manuka honey just might be your cat’s ticket to a smooth healing process. A medical strength manuka honey product that we trust is the 100% Australian Raw Manuka Honey.

Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver can play many roles in terms of managing your cat’s health. This substance is a staple in holistic pet owner diets and is even used by holistic veterinary clinics. Colloidal silver is a natural antibiotic that can be used to help cats that suffer from chronic UTI’s, cats that experience GI upset, and even minor skin irritation and wounds. There are vets that also stated that colloidal silver can support cats with liver disease. 

Cat owners can purchase Colloidal silver supplements that allow you to administer the substance by mouth each day, as well as spread a small amount on irritated portions of the skin. Some of the trusted colloidal silver supplements available include this one by Holistic Pet Care or Colloidal Silver Spray for topical use. 

Be sure to speak with your vet before using colloidal silver as it can cause complications in pregnant cats, nursing cats, and cats with chronic medical conditions. 

Bee Propolis

Bee propolis has been used for thousands of years to fight multiple different forms of infections in humans and animals. Due to its natural antibiotic properties, bee propolis has been used to fight upper respiratory infections, GI upset, minor skin infections, and more. Since bee propolis has such a long history of fighting bacteria, there have been multiple studies on the benefits of using this natural substance to help our furry friends. It’s been proven to fight off yeast, fungus, bacteria, and even act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. 

You can often purchase bee propolis in powder form, liquid form, or even in capsule form. In order to determine which option is safest for your furry friend, be sure to speak to your vet about their preference for daily use. 

Juniper Berry

Juniper berry is a natural supplement that can help cats with chronic UTI’s and kidney complications. Due to the antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties, daily use of this supplement can maintain urinary health in cats that struggle with these issues. Since many cats struggle with inflammation in the bladder and urethra, this supplement can provide some relief when it is processed through their urinary system. Because of this, you’ll find juniper berry in many holistic cat health products. 

Though there are other ingredients in this supplement, The Bemix Urinary Support Supplement uses juniper berry to help cats and dogs with chronic urinary issues. Though this supplement has helped many struggling pets, it’s best to speak with your vet before offering it to your cat. 

Echinacea

Echinacea is a popular natural antibiotic for bacterial infections in cats. This supplement is so popular and widely accepted, there is even an entire article about the effectiveness of this supplement on the VCA website. Though it’s technically considered an immune stimulant, it’s known for its ability to cure upper respiratory infections in cats and dogs. 

When given as soon as your cat begins to sniffle or sneeze, echinacea can shorten the duration of their symptoms. With having such a large safety margin, it’s a safe way to offer your cat a natural alternative to standard antibiotics for URIs. 

When Should You See A Vet?

You should visit your vet often. Though natural antibiotics can work their magic in many cases, there are situations that require veterinary care. Though we always recommend discussing the addition of any new supplement with your veterinarian regardless, there are a few ways to know if it’s time to take your cat to the vet for their current infection. 

• Lack of appetite or not eating
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea that lasts longer than 24 hours
• Lethargy
• Difficulty urinating
• Blood in urine
• Changes in breathing
• Any other drastic change in behavior

If you notice any of the above symptoms in your feline companion, it’s best to visit your vet for a veterinary strength treatment.

Though natural supplements and remedies have their place in our cats’ lives, sometimes an issue will require more aggressive care. 

We’re not the only ones that can benefit from a natural approach to medicine when we start to feel under the weather. So can our cats. Be sure to review these top five natural antibiotics for cats that we listed above, and you can rely on a natural approach to your cat’s health. 

LIKE IT? PIN IT!