Home Health Cephalexin as a First-Line Treatment for Common Infections in Dogs

Cephalexin as a First-Line Treatment for Common Infections in Dogs

Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic for dogs suffering from bacterial infections. It is a cephalosporin-class antibiotic that is used as a first-line treatment for many common infections in dogs.

Cephalexin, available under brand names such as Keflex, Sporidex, Cefadroxil, Rilexine, Keftab, and Biocef, is effective in treating a wide range of bacterial infections.

In this article, we will discuss how cephalexin works, the types of infections it can treat, and the appropriate dosages and administration for dogs.

Understanding Cephalexin

Cephalexin functions by interfering with the formation of the bacterium’s cell wall, causing the bacteria to die. It is useful against a wide variety of bacterial infections, including gram-positive bacteria. It comes in pill, capsule, and liquid versions, making it simple to give to dogs of all sizes.

According to PetPlace’s 2022 blog entry, cephalexin is generally accessible in a variety of forms, including 250 mg and 500 mg pills, 50 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 250 mg, 300 mg, 500 mg, 600 mg, 750 mg, and 1000 mg tablets, oral formulations, and injections.

Buying Medication Online

In recent times, buying pet medications online has become more accessible, and various online retailers provide affordable prices and a broad range of pet medicines, but only if you have a valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian.

Some of these retailers also provide subscription plans to ensure that you never run out of medication if you forget to reorder. PetCareRX is among the numerous online retailers that offer pet medications, including Cephalexin for dogs.

It is crucial to verify that any other online retailer from which you decide to purchase pet medications is licensed and accredited. It is strongly advised to avoid purchasing medicines from retailers that sell medications without requesting a prescription, as it can pose a significant risk to your pet’s health.

Common Infections Treated with Cephalexin

Cephalexin is frequently used in the treatment of bacterial illnesses in dogs, such as skin infections, infections of the urinary tract, and dental infections. Cephalexin can successfully cure skin diseases such as hot spots, pyoderma, and dermatitis.

Urinary tract infections caused by bacteria such as E. coli can also be treated with cephalexin. Respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and kennel cough, can be treated with cephalexin. Additionally, cephalexin can be used to treat dental infections, including periodontal disease and tooth abscesses.

The MSD Veterinary Manual highlights that, unlike humans, animals with urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often asymptomatic, and the infection may be discovered incidentally. If left untreated, UTIs can lead to various complications such as lower urinary tract dysfunction, prostatitis, infertility, urolithiasis, septicemia, pyelonephritis with scarring, and ultimately kidney failure.

Dosages and Administration

The dosage and administration of Cephalexin depend on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the dog’s weight and overall health. Cephalexin is typically provided at a dosage of 10-15 mg per pound of body weight every 8-12 hours.

Treatment can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, based on the severity of the illness. To guarantee the best therapy results, it is critical to observe the veterinarian’s dosage and administration directions.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Cephalexin, like any drug, can produce side effects in some dogs. Vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of hunger are the most prevalent adverse effects. Serious adverse effects, such as allergic reactions, are uncommon but can appear in some dogs. If your pet exhibits any negative responses, call your veterinarian right away.

According to a blog post on petMD, an excessive dose of cephalexin can have severe effects on dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and tearing of the eyes. If left unchecked, it can harm the kidneys, liver, and blood cells.

It is important to note that cephalexin should not be administered to dogs with a known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins. Additionally, it should be used with caution in dogs with kidney or liver disease, as well as pregnant or nursing dogs.

Conclusion

In summation, cephalexin is a cephalosporin-class antibiotic that can address a variety of bacterial infections in dogs. Its ease of administration in tablet, capsule, and liquid forms makes it a popular choice among veterinarians. However, following dosage and administration instructions carefully and monitoring for potential side effects is essential.

When purchasing medications online, it is crucial to ensure that the retailer is licensed and accredited and requires a prescription from a licensed veterinarian. Overall, cephalexin can be a safe and effective treatment option for dogs with bacterial infections, but it is important to use it with caution and under the guidance of a veterinarian.