clindamycin and dogs Overview of Clindamycin (Antirobe®, Cleocin®) for Dogs and Cats
clindamycin and dogs Clindamycin, often recognized by its brand names Antirobe® and Cleocin®, is an antibiotic used to treat infections in dogs and cats. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, a mechanism it shares with erythromycin and similar drugs. Clindamycin is closely related to lincomycin (Lincocin) and is effective against a specific range of bacteria in pets. It is particularly useful for treating infections in the skin, oral cavity, bone, and respiratory tract. As a prescription medication, clindamycin must be obtained through a veterinarian.
Basic Information
clindamycin and dogs Clindamycin is a broad-spectrum lincosamide antibiotic effective against a range of bacteria and some protozoal infections. It targets gram-positive aerobic bacteria (such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species), anaerobic bacteria, and protozoa like Toxoplasma. The FDA has approved it for use in dogs and cats to treat wounds, abscesses, and osteomyelitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
clindamycin and dogs Depending on its concentration at the infection site, clindamycin can act as either a bacteriostatic or bactericidal agent. It is well-distributed throughout the body, effectively penetrating bone, joints, pleura, peritoneal fluid, the heart, and abscesses. Additionally, it crosses the blood-brain barrier, reaching about 40% of serum levels in the central nervous system if there is meningeal inflammation. Clindamycin is well absorbed when taken orally, is partially metabolized by the liver, and is excreted in urine, feces, and bile.
Dogs and cats
clindamycin and dogs Clindamycin is prescribed for a range of infections in dogs and cats. In dogs, it is used to treat conditions such as Staph pyoderma, wounds, abscesses, dental infections, osteomyelitis, certain hepatobiliary or respiratory infections, anaerobic infections, intra-abdominal sepsis, actinomycosis, some methicillin-resistant Staph infections, and susceptible protozoal infections like Toxoplasmosis. Cats receive similar treatment indications.
clindamycin and dogs For clinical Toxoplasmosis in both dogs and cats, clindamycin is often the preferred treatment. The dosage for Toxoplasmosis is typically higher than for other bacterial infections, with noticeable improvement usually occurring within 48 hours. However, issues like neurological deficits, muscle atrophy, and ocular lesions may take longer to resolve.
clindamycin and dogs When treating mixed bacterial infections, clindamycin may be used in combination with aminoglycosides, third-generation cephalosporins, or fluoroquinolones to ensure adequate coverage of gram-negative bacteria. Although food can influence the rate of absorption, it does not affect the extent of absorption.
Brand Names and Other Names of Clindamycin
clindamycin and dogs This drug is approved for use in both animals and humans. For people, it is available under the brand name Cleocin®, manufactured by Upjohn. In veterinary medicine, the same drug is marketed as Antirobe®, also by Upjohn.
Uses of Clindamycin for Dogs and Cats
clindamycin and dogs Clindamycin is commonly used in dogs and cats to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as those affecting the skin, wounds, bones, lungs (pneumonia), and oral cavity, including dental infections. It is particularly effective against anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in environments without oxygen. While clindamycin has also been used to address protozoan infections in animals, its effectiveness for this purpose is debated. However, it is not effective against infections caused by parasites (like intestinal worms), mites, viruses, or fungi.
Precautions and Side Effects
clindamycin and dogs When prescribed by a veterinarian, clindamycin is generally safe and effective for pets. However, it can cause side effects in some animals. It should be avoided in pets with known allergies to the drug. Additionally, clindamycin may interact with other medications, including some antibiotics, so it’s important to consult your vet about potential drug interactions. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Cats, in particular, may find the liquid formulation unpalatable, leading them to avoid the medication or drool excessively after taking it.
How Clindamycin Is Supplied
clindamycin and dogs Clindamycin is available in several forms: 25 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg capsules, as well as a 25 mg/ml oral suspension.
Dosing Information of Clindamycin for Dogs and Cats
clindamycin and dogs clindamycin and dogs Never administer medication to your pet without first consulting your veterinarian. If you have concerns about medication costs, pet insurance might help—click here to learn more.
clindamycin and dogs For dogs, the typical clindamycin dose is 5 mg per pound (11 mg/kg) every 12 hours or 10 mg per pound (22 mg/kg) every 24 hours. In cats, the dose ranges from 2.5 mg per pound (5.5 mg/kg) every 12 hours to 10 mg per pound (22 mg/kg) every 24 hours, depending on the infection being treated.
clindamycin and dogsTo help the medication reach the stomach and avoid esophageal injury, give clindamycin pills with a small amount of water.
The length of treatment varies based sick kittenon the condition, your pet’s response to the medication, and any side effects. Always complete the full course of the prescription as directed by your vet, even if your pet seems better, to prevent relapse or the development of resistance.
