DL-Methionine Tablets, 500mg

DL-Methionine Tablets are for use as an aid in acidifying the urine of dogs and cats. DL-Methionine is also an aid in controlling the odor from feline and canine urine residues.

DL-Methionine tablets maybe used as a source of this essential amino acid.

DL-Methionine may be used to prevent the formation of magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals in the urine. These crystals are commonly called struvite, Struvite is the most frequently involved mineral in uroliths that occur in feline lower urinary tract disease (LUTD) also known as feline urologic syndrome (FUS). Struvite crystals are more soluble in acid urine and tend not to develop and will eventually dissolve as urinary pH is reduced. Methionine is effective in increasing urine acidity.

LUTD (FUS) is relatively common and affects both sexes; however, male cats are more frequently involved. Cystitis and urolithiasis produce post-renal uremia with elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN), hyperphosphatemia, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, and death if not treated.

The following principles have been suggested for uroliths in LUTD that are predominantly composed of struvite to reduce the concentration of pre-struvite crystalloids and formation of calculi.

• Reducing crystalloid concentration by reducing dietary concentration of magnesium and phosphorus to minimal requirements.
  
  
• Increasing urinary volume by increasing water intake.
  
  
• Increasing solubility of crystalloids by reducing urinary pH and holding at a reduced value.

Dosage:

Adult cats: one tablet per 10 lbs body weight 1 or 2 times daily with food. Not intended for use in kittens.

Dogs: 1/2 tablet per 10 lbs body weight 1 or 2 times daily with food.

For urinary acidification in cats and dogs and prevention of struvite urolithiasis urinary pH should be reduced to approximately 6.0 - 6.6 and maintained in this range. Monitoring the pH of freshly voided urine may be advisable.

Contraindications: Do not administer to animals with severe liver, kidney or pancreatic disease, or those which are acidotic due to conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or urinary obstruction.

Storage: Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place at room temperature 59-86°F.