Is it Safe to Give My Cat Amoxicillin?

An extremely common and relatively safe antibiotic for humans, Amoxicillin is the antibiotic most often prescribed in order to treat minor to chronic ailments, such as ear infection. Reliable and well known, most of us are rather experienced in terms of being prescribed Amoxicillin. But just how safe is use of this medication in felines?

Why Veterinarians Prescribe Amoxicillin to Cats

It may not be a surprise to many that veterinarians typically prescribe Amoxicillin to cats for many of the same reasons that our own doctors would prescribe the medication to us. Conditions such as infection of the ears, urinary tract and various skin disorders caused by the presence of bacteria often result in veterinarians prescribing Amoxicillin.

Amoxicillin Dosing for Cats

Known by veterinary brands names like Trimox, Biomox, Amoxil and Robamox-BV, Amoxicillin is generally prescribed to felines based upon weight. Typical dosage falls in the range of 5 to 10 milligrams per pound, every 12 to 24 hours.

Never attempt to diagnose illness and administer antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin, to your cat without being directed to do so by a veterinarian. Dosing amounts vary greatly with factors such as age, kidney or liver disease, past allergies, and intestinal/stomach disorders and diseases.

Can Amoxicillin for Humans by Used for Cats?

Pet owners often make the grave mistake of believing that since the drug has the same name, their own medication can be given to their ill cat. This can result in overdose and may cause a severe allergic reaction.

Amoxicillin for adult humans is available in pill form in dosages of 250 and 500 milligrams. A relatively healthy, young cat weighing 10 pounds may be prescribed 100 milligrams every 12 hours. Attempting to break the pill, measure and decide how to administer the drug to a cat is simply too risky, as too many mistakes can be made throughout the process.

Only use Amoxicillin medications designed for feline use - and that are currently prescribed to your pet.

Amoxicillin Side Effects in Cats

While a trusted drug for the most part, Amoxicillin may cause the following side effects in cats: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and the development of fungal and/or yeast infection.

Amoxicillin Allergic Reaction in Cats

Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction that require immediate veterinary help include: shortness of breath, bloody diarrhea, bruising, any form of unusual bleeding, hives, rash, fainting, seizure and swelling of the tongue, face and/or lips.

If you suspect that your cat is having an adverse reaction to Amoxicillin or any medication, it is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Source:
http://www.vetinfo.com/amoxicillin-for-cats.html