Metabolized by the liver, releasing H+ ions (metabolic acidification) and Cl- ions. The excess H+ is excreted renally, acidifying urine. Used to dissolve struvite uroliths (which form in alkaline urine) and to treat metabolic alkalosis.
At a glance
Class
Urinary Acidifier / Expectorant
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from moisture
Dosing
Used for struvite urolith dissolution/prevention (target urine pH 6
Used for struvite prevention in cats
Safety
Urine pH (target 6.0–6.5)Blood gas (metabolic acidosis)Serum electrolytesHepatic function
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ammonium Chloride?
Ammonium Chloride is a urinary acidifier / expectorant used in pets. Metabolized by the liver, releasing H+ ions (metabolic acidification) and Cl- ions. The excess H+ is excreted renally, acidifying urine. Used to dissolve struvite uroliths (which form in alkaline urine) and to treat metabolic alkalosis.
›What is Ammonium Chloride used for in pets?
Ammonium Chloride is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for struvite urolith dissolution/prevention (target urine pH 6; Used for struvite prevention in cats.
›What is the Ammonium Chloride dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ammonium Chloride is typically dosed as follows — Used for struvite urolith dissolution/prevention (target urine pH 6: 100–200 mg/kg PO/IV (alkalosis) q12h (PO). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ammonium Chloride dose for cats?
For cats, Ammonium Chloride is typically dosed as follows — Used for struvite prevention in cats: 20–40 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Ammonium Chloride need a prescription?
Yes. Ammonium Chloride is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
Disinfectant Glutaraldehyde +Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride + Ethylene Dioxy
M/s Gopaldas Visram & co. Ltd., · Approved 09.07.2021
Liquid Concentrate Having Broad Spectrum Bactericidal, Sporicidal, Fungicidal andvircidal properties for use in poultry
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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