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Can I give my cat my human Nitrofurantoin for a suspected UTI?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

Hi, I believe my cat has a UTI, am I okay to give Nitrofurantoin? I have these myself and can easily break open a capsule to put in his food? He is crying and is discomfort when going for a wee.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on May 15th, 2017

Do not medicate your pet without the advice of your veterinarian. Inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to resistant bacteria and may complicate the underlying condition. If Rupert does have a UTI, the nitrofurantoin will have no effect if the bacteria is not susceptible. A urinalysis and culture will confirm infection and identify the responsible organism as well as the best antibiotic to use in treatment.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Rupert. Unfortunately this is not a safe medication to give your pet. Even if it were, we would not be allowed to advocate using medication prescribed for yourself on your pet here on Petcoach as appropriate telemedicine advice. I would recommend taking Rupert in to your vet right away because it sounds like this may be a bit more than a simple urinary tract infection. With increased vocalization and crying, I would suspect her may have a urinary blockage which can be life threatening if not treated right away (within 24 hrs in most cases). He needs to be seen immediately and treated for this appropriately. I hope your fur baby Rupert has a full and speedy recovery from his urinary issues. Here is more specific information on urinary blockages in cats. http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1111

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