Sulfur-containing essential amino acid metabolized to sulfate, generating hydrogen ions that acidify urine. Also serves as methyl group donor for transsulfuration pathway and glutathione synthesis. Used to dissolve/prevent struvite uroliths and as hepatoprotective antioxidant.
At a glance
Class
Urinary Acidifier / Essential Amino Acid
Storage
Store at room temperature
Dosing
Used for struvite dissolution/prevention (acidifies urine to dissolve magnesium
Used for struvite prevention and acetaminophen toxicity support (with NAC)
Safety
Urine pH (target 6.0–6.5)Blood gas (acidosis)Urinalysis (crystal type)Hepatic function
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Methionine (DL-Methionine)?
Methionine (DL-Methionine) is a urinary acidifier / essential amino acid used in pets. Sulfur-containing essential amino acid metabolized to sulfate, generating hydrogen ions that acidify urine. Also serves as methyl group donor for transsulfuration pathway and glutathione synthesis. Used to dissolve/prevent struvite uroliths and as hepatoprotective antioxidant.
›What is Methionine (DL-Methionine) used for in pets?
Methionine (DL-Methionine) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for struvite dissolution/prevention (acidifies urine to dissolve magnesium ; Used for struvite prevention and acetaminophen toxicity support (with NAC).
›What is the Methionine (DL-Methionine) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Methionine (DL-Methionine) is typically dosed as follows — Used for struvite dissolution/prevention (acidifies urine to dissolve magnesium : undefined undefined PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Methionine (DL-Methionine) dose for cats?
For cats, Methionine (DL-Methionine) is typically dosed as follows — Used for struvite prevention and acetaminophen toxicity support (with NAC): undefined undefined PO q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Methionine (DL-Methionine) need a prescription?
Methionine (DL-Methionine) is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
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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