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
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Urine pH (target 6.0–6.5)Blood gas (metabolic acidosis)Serum electrolytesHepatic function
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.
Find a vet near you →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.
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.
Find a vet near you →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
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database