Can I give my dog ciprofloxacin?

Video: [10] Is The Antibiotic ‘Cipro’ A Prescription For Danger? ( Fluoroquinolone Toxicity )

Ciprofloxacin, or Cipro for short, can be given to dogs to prevent or treat bacterial infections. This broad spectrum antibiotic is not FDA-approved for animal use but it is prescribed by veterinarians.

Video: PharmD overviews the uses and common side effects of Ciprofloxacin

Skin, respiratory and urinary tract infections (UTIs) respond to Ciprofloxacin. But providing your dog with an existing supply is the wrong approach. It’s easy to unknowingly misuse this antibiotic which would unnecessarily put your pet at risk.

Although adverse reactions to Ciprofloxacin are relatively rare, there are sometimes side effects associated with canine use. This, along with the results of a proper diagnosis, should be considered prior to administering this popular drug to any dog.

Can I Give My Dog Ciprofloxacin? Answer: Yes, but only w/ a vet’s prescription

Providing Cipro can easily be inappropriate and potentially harmful to a precious pet.

Giving your dog Ciprofloxacin without veterinary guidance is just too dangerous. This antibiotic can negatively interact with existing medications, many NSAIDs and even certain supplements. So be careful with Cipro and especially if your dog is taking other drugs. Just because Fido has an infection doesn’t mean it will be effective. Only certain bacterial infections will respond to Ciprofloxacin.

There’s a great deal of knowledge required in order to safely treat dogs for infections. Don’t go it alone!

Ciprofloxacin Restrictions

Pregnant dogs and puppies should never be given Cipro. In addition, some adult canines may be allergic or hypersensitive to this antibiotic which requires suspension of the drug’s use. If your dog is taking an iron supplement, or an antacid, then Ciprofloxacin should be reconsidered. There are other medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, that may not interact well with this fluoroquinolone bacterial antibiotic.

Discuss, with your vet, any drugs that your dog is currently taking prior to Ciprofloxacin use.

Dose & Duration for Dogs

Cipro is designed for humans which can make dosing for canines tricky. Ciprofloxacin is available as an injection but there’s also a 5% and 10% suspension formula. The most common way to administer this antibiotic, for both humans and dogs, is in oral tablet form.

Speak with a vet about the correct Cipro dose and duration for your dog’s situation. Most canine cases call for 10 to 12mg per pound of body weight taken daily. It may be best to divide this amount over different time periods throughout the day. If you miss a dose, give it to your dog as soon as possible but never provide 2 doses at once.

Your dog must complete their Ciprofloxacin treatment plan even if they appear to be infection free.

Concerning K9 Side Effects

Some dogs experience adverse side effects even though Ciprofloxacin is known to have a good safety record. Most concerning for canines is the possibility of irreversible joint cartilage damage. More common complications involve changes in bowel movement consistency. Diarrhea, loss of appetite, vomiting and lethargy are known to occur. Closely observe your pet during Ciprofloxacin use.

Immediately notify your vet if you notice negative reactions while your dog is on any type of antibiotic.

What Vets Think About Cipro

Some veterinarians do not favor Ciprofloxacin, also known as Ciloxan, for dogs. There’s some debate as to this drug’s absorption ability. Also understand that if your dog is dealing with an infection as a result of parasites, molds or viruses it cannot be treated with Cipro. That’s why getting a diagnosis should be the first step towards properly addressing your dog’s problem.

With so many antibiotic variations and brands, Cefdinir being one, you want to be sure that the most appropriate kind is administered to your dog.

Conclusion on Ciprofloxacin

Do not provide your dog with Ciprofloxacin unless a vet explicitly told to do so. Proper antibiotic use requires detailed instructions, including dosing and duration. There are potential side effects, and other risks for dogs, especially when this drug is misused. Ciprofloxacin, when it is appropriate, can rid a beloved pet of a bacterial infection. Speak with a professional about getting a prescription for your dog and learn as much as possible prior to use.

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