Enrofloxacin for Cats

Enrofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of bacterial infections in cats. This medication can be a powerful tool in the arsenal of veterinarians when dealing with feline health issues. In this article, we will explore enrofloxacin for cats, including its uses, dosage, potential side effects, and precautions.

What is Enrofloxacin?

Enrofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is effective against a wide range of bacteria. It works by inhibiting the enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication and repair, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria. Enrofloxacin is available in various forms, including tablets, liquids, and injectable solutions, making it versatile for different types of feline infections.

What is Enrofloxacin Used For in Cats?

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Enrofloxacin is indeed a commonly used antibiotic in veterinary medicine, including for the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in cats. UTIs in cats can be caused by various bacteria, and enrofloxacin is effective against many of these bacteria. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones and works by inhibiting the growth of and killing the bacteria responsible for the infection.

Related: Cat Urinary Tract Infections

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

Enrofloxacin is indeed a commonly used antibiotic in veterinary medicine, including for cats, and it can be prescribed to treat various types of bacterial infections, including skin and soft tissue infections. Pyoderma, wounds, abscesses, and infected bite wounds are among the conditions that enrofloxacin may be used to treat in cats, provided that the infection is caused by susceptible bacteria.

Respiratory Infections

It may be used to treat respiratory infections caused by susceptible bacteria, such as Pasteurella or Bordetella species. Respiratory infections in cats can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including Pasteurella or Bordetella species, and enrofloxacin may be prescribed by a veterinarian to help combat these infections.

Ear Infection

Enrofloxacin can be used to treat ear infections (otitis) in cats when the infection is caused by susceptible bacteria. However, topical ear medications are often preferred for ear infections.

Anal Sac Infection

Enrofloxacin may be prescribed for anal sac infections in cats, also known as anal gland infections or abscesses.

Osteomyelitis (Bone Infection)

In cases of bone infections (osteomyelitis) caused by susceptible bacteria, enrofloxacin may be used as part of the treatment regimen.

Gastrointestinal Infections

Enrofloxacin is an antibiotic medication that is sometimes used in cats to treat various bacterial infections, including gastrointestinal infections. It can be prescribed by veterinarians to address bacterial infections in the digestive tract, which may include conditions such as diarrhea or enteritis.

Related: Gastroenteritis in Cats

Systemic Infections

 In more severe cases, veterinarians may prescribe enrofloxacin to treat systemic bacterial infections that have spread throughout the body, affecting multiple organs or body systems. This may include infections that are difficult to treat with other antibiotics.

How Enrofloxacin Works?

Enrofloxacin works by inhibiting the activity of bacterial enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes are essential for the replication, repair, and maintenance of bacterial DNA. By blocking these enzymes, enrofloxacin prevents bacteria from replicating and repairing their genetic material. This ultimately leads to the death of the bacteria and the resolution of the infection.

How Long Does Enrofloxacin Take to Work?

This medication will work quickly, within about 1 to 2 hours, but you may start to see improvement in your pet's condition within a few days of starting enrofloxacin treatment. However, it's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet's symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Failing to complete the entire course of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and a recurrence of the infection.

Is Enrofloxacin Safe for Cats?

Enrofloxacin is generally considered safe for use in cats, and most cats tolerate it well with few or no side effects. However, as with any medication, there is a possibility of side effects. Should always observe the prescribed dosage and concentration. 

How Enrofloxacin Is Used?

Enrofloxacin is available in different forms, including oral tablets, oral liquid suspensions, and injectable solutions. The veterinarian will choose the most appropriate form for your pet's condition and convenience.
If prescribed as tablets, they can be given orally to the animal with or without food.
If prescribed as oral liquid suspension. Liquid enrofloxacin is typically administered by mouth using a syringe or dropper. Be sure to measure the dose accurately and administer it as directed.

Enrofloxacin for Cats Dosage

The dosage of enrofloxacin for cats can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the severity of the infection, and the cat's weight and overall health. It is crucial to follow your veterinarian's recommendations and prescribed dosage exactly. Enrofloxacin is available in various forms, including oral tablets, injectable solutions, and oral liquid suspensions, and dosages may differ depending on the formulation.

Here are some general guidelines for enrofloxacin dosages in cats:

Oral Tablets

Typically, enrofloxacin tablets for cats are available in 22.7 mg, 68 mg, and 136 mg strengths.
The standard oral dosage for cats is 5 to 20 mg per kilogram (2.27 to 9.09 mg per pound) of body weight once daily.
The exact dosage within this range will depend on your cat's condition and the specific tablet strength prescribed by your veterinarian.

Oral Liquid Suspension

Enrofloxacin may also be available as a liquid suspension, which allows for more precise dosing based on the cat's weight.
Your veterinarian will calculate the appropriate dose in milliliters (ml) based on your cat's weight and the concentration of the suspension.

Injectable Solution

Injectable enrofloxacin may be administered by a veterinarian in a clinical setting, and the dosage will be determined by the veterinarian based on the cat's condition.

It's crucial to administer enrofloxacin as directed by your veterinarian. Follow their instructions for the duration of treatment as well. Even if your cat's symptoms improve before the prescribed course is complete, it's essential to finish the entire treatment to ensure the infection is fully eradicated and to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

What If I Miss Giving My Pet the Medication?

If you miss giving your pet enrofloxacin or any other medication, it's important to follow some guidelines to ensure your pet's health:

• Don't Double Dose: If you forget to give your pet a dose of enrofloxacin, do not give them a double dose to make up for the missed one. This can lead to overdosing, which may have harmful side effects.
• Follow the Schedule: Resume your pet's medication schedule as soon as you remember, but do not give it too close to the next scheduled dose. If you usually give the medication once a day, try to maintain a consistent 24-hour gap between doses. If it's twice a day, aim for 12 hours between doses.

Enrofloxacin for Cats' Side Effects

Enrofloxacin is an antibiotic medication used in veterinary medicine to treat various bacterial infections in cats. Like any medication, it can have both common and serious side effects. 

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal Upset: Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
• Lethargy: Some cats may appear more tired or lethargic than usual.
• Drooling: Excessive salivation or drooling can occur in some cats.
• Injection Site Reactions: If given as an injection, there may be some local irritation or discomfort at the injection site.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions are rare but can include symptoms like itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Severe allergic reactions are serious and require immediate veterinary attention.

Serious Side Effects (Less Common but More Severe)

• Joint Problems: Enrofloxacin should generally be avoided in growing kittens as it can potentially lead to damage in developing joints.
• Neurological Issues: In rare cases, enrofloxacin can lead to neurological symptoms such as seizures, tremors, or disorientation.
• Liver or Kidney Problems: Cats with pre-existing liver or kidney disease may experience worsening of these conditions with enrofloxacin use.
• Cataracts: Prolonged use of enrofloxacin may contribute to the development of cataracts in some cats.
• Bone Marrow Suppression: Enrofloxacin can suppress bone marrow function, leading to a decrease in white blood cells, which can weaken the immune system.

Enrofloxacin Interactions with Other Medicine

Enrofloxacin can interact with several other medications, including:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Concurrent use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal upset and potential kidney problems.
• Corticosteroids: Combining enrofloxacin with corticosteroids may increase the risk of tendon and joint issues.
• Probenecid: Probenecid can increase the concentration of enrofloxacin in the blood, potentially leading to higher levels of the antibiotic.
• Theophylline: Enrofloxacin can increase the levels of theophylline in the blood, potentially leading to toxic effects.
• Warfarin: Enrofloxacin may alter the metabolism of warfarin, an anticoagulant, potentially affecting blood clotting.
• Dairy: Medications or supplements containing iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium or aluminum will bind enrofloxacin and prevent absorption into the body. Such medications should be separated from enrofloxacin by at least 2 hours. For this reason, cheese is not a good treat in which to hide enrofloxacin pills.

Precautions for Using Enrofloxacin

• It is best taken on an empty stomach, but if vomiting or nausea occurs, take the next dose with food or a dairy-free snack.
• Dose adjustments may be needed for patients with kidney or liver disease.
• Enrofloxacin has toxic properties in humans. It is for veterinary use only.
• Enrofloxacin should not be used in pets that are allergic to it, dehydrated pets, small to medium-sized dogs under 8 months of age, or large dogs that have not completed their rapid growth period.
• Enrofloxacin is best not given with cheese or other high-calcium foods.
• Enrofloxacin can potentially reduce the seizure threshold, making it more likely for seizures to occur. While this isn't typically an issue for healthy animals, it's advisable to avoid fluoroquinolones like enrofloxacin in animals known to have seizure disorders.

How Do I Store Enrofloxacin?

In general, most enrofloxacin formulations should be stored at room temperature, which typically ranges between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Avoid extreme temperature variations.  Some medications may be sensitive to light, so it's a good practice to store enrofloxacin in a dark or opaque container or packaging. If the medication comes in a light-resistant container, keep it in that container.

Conclusion

Enrofloxacin is a valuable tool in the treatment of bacterial infections in cats, providing a broad-spectrum solution to a variety of common feline health issues. However, its use should always be under the guidance of a veterinarian, with careful consideration of the potential side effects and precautions. When used responsibly and as directed, enrofloxacin can help restore your cat's health and well-being.

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Puainta® Dogs/ Cats Antibiotic Enrofloxacin