Cephalosporin Antibiotics for Pets
Cephalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against a variety of infections, including skin conditions, wound infections, urinary tract infections, bone infections, and respiratory infections. Cephalexin is also used to treat pyoderma in cats and dogs. This is an affordable, prescription-strength medication that's available in capsule and liquid form.
Comparable Trade Names & Generics
Cephalexin provides broad-spectrum
treatment for numerous infections in cats and dogs, including skin infections,
respiratory infections, bone infections, urinary tract infections, and
others.
Benefits of Cephalexin:
- Not usually associated
with severe side effects
- Effective against pyoderma,
a common skin infection in animals
- Affordable, prescription-strength
medication
- Treats difficult infections,
including those of the bones and joints
- Available in capsule form
and as a liquid suspension for easy administration
For use in cats and dogs only. Do not
use in horses or humans.
Read product inserts carefully before
use.
Do not allow children to handle or
administer Cephalexin.
Directions:
- Shake the liquid suspension
well before each use.
- Give the dose prescribed
by your veterinarian to your pet. The typical dose of Cephalexin in
cats and dogs is 10 to 30 mg/kg given orally every 6 to 12 hours. Dosing
for pyoderma, a common skin infection in cats and dogs, is typically
22 to 35 mg/kg every 12 hours by mouth.
- Place the opened liquid
suspension into the refrigerator immediately after using.
Frequency of Use:
Administer as prescribed. Do not use
at a higher dose or for longer periods than prescribed by your veterinarian.
Give the entire course of medication, even if your pet's symptoms improve
before the medication is finished.
Storage:
Store Cephalexin capsules in the original
container, tightly closed, and at room temperature. Keep away from excess
light, heat, and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom or next to the
kitchen sink. Discard once outdated.
Store Cephalexin oral suspension in
the refrigerator once opened. Discard any unused medication after 14
days.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
It is a violation of Federal Law
to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.
Cephalexin works by interfering with
cell wall formation in susceptible bacteria, causing the cell wall to
rupture. This kills the bacteria and clears up the infection. Cephalexin
is effective against numerous types of infections, including those affecting
the skin, respiratory tract, bones, joints, ears, and urinary tract.
Warnings:
Keep this product out of reach of children
and animals. Do not use or store in or near open flame or heat.
Cephalexin is intended for use in cats
and dogs only. Do not use in other animals or in humans. This medication
is not absorbed orally in horses.
CAUTION: Cephalexin and other
cephalosporin antibiotics may rarely cause side effects, including vomiting,
diarrhea, and reduced appetite. Dogs may also experience rapid breathing,
drooling, and excitability, and cats may develop fever.
Allergic reactions to Cephalexin are
possible. If your pet develops itching, breathing problems, swelling,
or rash while using this medication, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Do not use this medication in dogs
or cats that are allergic to cephalosporins or penicillin. Use cautiously
in pets taking probenecid or aminoglycosides and in those that are undergoing
treatment with medications that affect the kidneys. Tell your veterinarian
about any medications or supplements your pet is taking before beginning
treatment with Cephalexin.
Seek emergency medication attention
for a known or suspected overdose.