Is Flagyl Effective for Cats?
- Metronidazole. While metronidazole is an antibiotic, it's not prescribed for feline respiratory diseases. ...
- Giardia. Giardia infects the intestines of many domestic animals, and cats are no exception. ...
- Other Uses. ...
- Side Effects. ...
Does metronidazole stop diarrhea in cats?
Metronidazole is a very commonly used medication in veterinary medicine. With antibiotic and antiprotozoal properties, it is often used to treat various causes of diarrhea in cats, but can be used for other types of infections. Side effects can occur, but are usually seen much more with higher doses or prolonged courses of the medication.
How much metronidazole for cats?
Typically, metronidazole is administered to cats orally (by mouth) or intravenously (injected into the bloodstream). Doses range from 10 mg/kg (or 4.5 mg/lb) to 25 mg/kg (or 11.4 mg/lb). Metronidazole is typically given twice daily or every 12 hours, but in certain circumstances, your veterinarian may prescribe it every 24 hours.
Is metronidazole safe for cats?
Since metronidazole can harm unborn cat babies, it should be avoided in pregnant cats. Metronidazole can also enter a cat’s milk and harm young kittens, so it’s not recommended for nursing cats either. This medication should also be used carefully in cats with seizures and kidney or liver issues.
What do you need to know about Flagyl?
- A headache, nausea, diarrhea, flushing, an unpleasant metallic taste, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage to fingers and toes), or a rash are common side effects. ...
- Cases of encephalopathy and peripheral neuropathy have been reported with metronidazole.
- Do not crush, break, or chew extended-release Flagyl tablets. ...
How long does it take for Flagyl to work in cats?
one to two hoursThis medication should take effect within one to two hours, and while effects may not be visibly noticed immediately, gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.
Why do vets prescribe Flagyl?
Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a popular antibiotic a vet may prescribe for a dog to treat diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, or gum disease. The most common side effect of metronidazole is diarrhea, even though it can be prescribed to treat diarrhea.
How long can a cat stay on Flagyl?
Ideally, at least several months of metronidazole therapy is given once it is started. In some cats with severe disease long term consecutive use or one to two month cycles of treatment may be required. Side effects to metronidazole at this low dose are uncommon in cats. Occasionally nausea or vomiting may be seen.
Does metronidazole make cats sleepy?
Does metronidazole make cats tired? As mentioned, metronidazole toxicity can cause central nervous signs, that can include dullness, so if your cat seems tired when on this medication, you need to discuss this with your veterinarian.
How do I know if metronidazole is working?
by Drugs.com Metronidazole starts to work 1 to 2 hours after you take it, because it is quickly absorbed, and it reaches its maximum concentration after 20 minutes to 3 hours. But it may take a couple of days before you start to feel better or notice an improvement in your symptoms.
Does Flagyl stop diarrhea?
Treatment of IBD Diarrhea In some cases, Flagyl may be used to treat infections or other complications of IBD. 2 It might be given alternately or at the same time as ciprofloxacin , another type of antibiotic.
What is the best antibiotic for cats?
Top Antibiotics for CatsAmoxil (Amoxicillin). ... Vibramycin (Doxycycline). ... Keflex (Cephalexin). ... Cleocin (Clindamycin). ... Orbax (Orbifloxacin). ... Clavamox (Amoxicillin + Clavulanic Acid). ... Baytril (Enrofloxacin). ... Flagyl (Metronidazole).
How much Flagyl do I give my cat?
The dosage for metronidazole is based on how much your cat weighs. A typical dose for most cases of diarrhea is 7.5 mg to 10 mg per kilogram of body weight twice daily. If the vet suspects a Giardia infection, the metronidazole dose may be between 10 mg and 25 mg per kilogram of body weight twice daily for 5 days.
How long does it take Flagyl to work in dogs?
around one to two hoursMetronidazole should start to work in around one to two hours, though you may not notice the effects that fast. It can take a few days for a gradual improvement in symptoms to be visible.
How long should a dog take Flagyl for diarrhea?
It's best to give metronidazole with food to reduce the chance of gastrointestinal side effects. The dosage of metronidazole typically ranges from 10-30 milligrams per kilogram given two to three times a day. Most dogs will need to be on this medication for at least five to seven days.
How long can a dog stay on metronidazole?
How long should I give my dog metronidazole? Metronidazole should be given for the amount of time directed by your veterinarian. Usually, veterinarians will prescribe metronidazole for a duration of 5 to 10 days depending on the type of condition they are treating.
Is Flagyl safe for dogs?
Metronidazole (also known by the brand names Flagyl, Metizol, Protostat, Metrogel) is a strong antibiotic primarily used as an antidiarrheal to treat inflammation of the large intestine. It's also used for other illnesses and conditions in dogs, cats, and horses, as well as to treat bacterial infections in humans.
Does metronidazole make cats tired?
As mentioned, metronidazole toxicity can cause central nervous signs, that can include dullness, so if your cat seems tired when on this medication...
How much metronidazole do I give my cat?
This is a decision for your veterinarian, but generally the dose rates recommended above will be used.
What is Metronidazole Used for in Cats?
Generally, metronidazole is most often used in cats to treat for a variety of causes of diarrhea. Specific causes may include targeting overgrowth...
How Long Can a Cat Take Metronidazole?
Most courses of metronidazole are shorter, for 1-2 weeks duration. Veterinarians may sometimes use it for longer, especially for cases of refractor...
Why Do Vets Prescribe Metronidazole?
Vets often prescribe metronidazole as an empirical treatment for diarrhea in cats. While determining the cause of diarrhea with fecal and/or blood...
Can You Mix Metronidazole with Wet Cat Food?
Metronidazole is a very bitter-tasting tablet medication, meaning that it may be difficult to give to your cat without somehow hiding the taste. G...
What happens if a cat eats flagyl?
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat has ingested a higher than the prescribed dose of Flagyl. Signs of intoxication include loss of appetite, vomiting , depression, dilated pupils, nystagmus, ataxia, head tilt, ataxia, tremors, seizures, bradycardia, rigidity and stiffness.
Why does Flagyl make my cat vomit?
Drooling due to the unpleasant taste (this is self-limiting) Less common: Because Flagyl can cross the blood-brain barrier, neurologic side effects can develop, these are more common in cats who are on long-term therapy or if the cat takes a high dose.
How is Flagyl supplied?
Flagyl is available in tablet, capsule or liquid suspension as well as injection. Due to the bitter taste, Flagyl may be compounded.
What is flagyl used for?
Flagyl (Metronidazole) is a prescription-only antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication which is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial and protozoal infections in several animals including cats, dogs and humans . Flagyl is a member of the drug classes amebicides and nitroimidazoles.
Is flagyl contraindicated for cats?
The following drug interactions have been reported or are theoretical in humans or animals and therefore may be of importance for cats receiving treatment. The use of Flagyl with the following drugs may not be contraindicated but potential risks and close monitoring may be necessary.
Is Flagyl a trichomonacidal?
Susceptible bacteria include Bacteroides spp, Clostridium spp, Eubacterium spp, Fusobacterium spp, Veillonella spp, Peptococcus spp, Peptostreptococcus spp and Prevotella spp. Flagyl is also trichomonacidal and amebicidal in action, and its mechanism of action for its antiprotozoal activity is not understood.
Does flagyl affect the immune system?
Flagyl can modify cell-mediated immunity to control excessive immune reactions, particularly in the large intestine. Once again, the mechanism of action is not known.
How long does it take for a cat to recover from Flagyl?
Most cats eventually recover when taken off the drug, but it might take up to two weeks, Rarely, cats succumb to the problems cause by side effects. Always give Kitty food along with Flagyl.
Why does my cat have loose bowels?
One tip that Kitty's loose bowels are due to giardia is an exceptionally bad smell and mucousy contents. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, dosing felines with giardia with metronidazole for five days should get rid of the infection. Your vet determines the dosage based on Kitty's weight.
Does Flagyl help with acne?
If Kitty suffers from internal parasite infections, Flagyl (metronidazole) effectively rids him of certain pests. Flagyl also treats other feline ailments, often in conjunction with other medications. While it's used generally internally, the topical form can help heal kitties with feline acne.
Can cats take metronidazole?
While metronidazole is an antibiotic, it's not prescribed for feline respiratory diseases. It's useful for different kinds of infections, such as anaerobic infections, where the germ grows without any oxygen. It also knocks out protozoa. The medication tastes bitter, so giving it in pill form to Kitty isn't easy.
Can you give a cat flagyl?
Flagyl has the ability to penetrate bones to fight any infection there. Most antibiotics can't penetrate the body's blood/brain barrier, but Flagyl can. Your vet might prescribe the medication if Kitty is diagnosed with a disease of the central nervous system. Depending on the condition, Flagyl might be prescribed for short or long-term use.
Can cats take flagyl?
He might become lethargic, drool or experience dry mouth. If it's the latter, he'll paw at his mouth or frequently lick his lips. Long-term use of the drug or high dosages can cause toxicity. Those side effects are obvious and scary, including seizures, shaking, head tilting and other neurological issues. Most cats eventually recover when taken off the drug, but it might take up to two weeks, Rarely, cats succumb to the problems cause by side effects. Always give Kitty food along with Flagyl. Don't give it to pregnant or lactating cats.
Can you give kitty a pill?
The medication tastes bitter, so giving it in pill form to Kitty isn't easy. Your vet might recommend a compounding pharmacy to make up the drug in a more palatable feline format, including a liquid formula.
What is flagyl used for in cats?
Metronidazole (Flagyl) is an antibiotic that veterinarians prescribe to treat diarrhea or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in cats.
How is metronidazole given to cats?
Your vet’s office may have an injectable form of metronidazole, but this is typically only used if your pet is too sick to take any medications by mouth. Metronidazole is readily available as an oral tablet and capsule. However, cats have an easier time tolerating a more palatable liquid version. Your vet may send you to a compounding pharmacy where they are able to make this suspension.
What are the side effects of metronidazole in cats?
Since metronidazole is an antibiotic, it can lower the amount of healthy gut bacteria. This can cause more diarrhea for your cat.
Are there any alternatives to metronidazole for diarrhea in cats?
Since treating diarrhea depends on what’s causing it, there are many choices to treat diarrhea in cats. Poisonous plants, eating bad food, infections, IBD, or intestinal tumors are all possible causes of diarrhea in cats. If your cat was recently on another antibiotic, their diarrhea could also be a leftover side effect from the previous medication.
What is metronidazole used for?
The antibiotic metronidazole is used to treat a variety of infections caused by bacteria or parasites in humans. Metronidazole prevents bacteria from growing and reproducing. The most common use for this medication is to treat intestinal infections, but it can be used for a variety of illnesses, including ear infections and meningitis (brain and spinal cord infection).
How long does it take for a cat to get rid of diarrhea after taking metronidazole?
After the first dose, it takes 1 to 2 hours for your cat’s body to absorb the medication. Your cat’s diarrhea should start to get better in a few days. Make sure your cat finishes the entire course of metronidazole ordered by the vet, even if their diarrhea has totally cleared up. Your cat’s symptoms could return and be harder to treat if they don’t finish all of the medication.
What is the best medicine for cats stomach?
Antibiotics can be an option to treat your cat when an infection is causing these tummy troubles. Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a common antibiotic used for cats with diarrhea and other digestive problems. Because this medication is most often used for humans, you may worry about its effects on your pet.
What is flagyl used for?
Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a commonly used and very effective antibiotic. It is most frequently used to treat gastrointestinal parasites, primarily Giardia. It has also been used to treat severe infections, usually in combination with other antibiotics.
How to treat metronidazole toxicity in dogs?
Treatment. The initial treatment for metronidazole toxicity is to stop administration of the drug immediately. Depending on the severity of the toxicity, some pets may need to be hospitalized with constant intravenous fluids. Medication to eliminate vomiting may also be needed.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from metronidazole?
There is no specific antidote for metronidazole toxicity and recovery may take 1-2 weeks. Some pets severely affected by metronidazole toxicity may not survive.
Can metronidazole be taken at home?
There is no home care for metronidazole toxicity. If you suspect that metronidazole is responsible for illness in your pet, consult your veterinarian before discontinuing medication; you may need another treatment for the initial infection for which the metronidazole was prescribed.
Can you give additional medication to a dog?
Give all medications as prescribed by your family veterinarian. Do not give additional doses unless specifically directed by your veterinarian.
Can metronidazole cause liver disease?
However, toxicity from metronidazole is uncommon and is generally associated with prolonged use (many weeks) or high doses of the drug. Animals with underlying liver disease are more prone to metronidazole toxicity.
What happens if a cat takes metronidazole?
More serious side effects might include neurological issues, liver failure and neutropenia, a drop in Kitty's white blood cell count. If your cat receives too much of the medication or is on it for a long time, he could develop metronidazole toxicity.
What is the best medicine for a kitty infection?
If Kitty has a certain type of infection, your vet might prescribe metronidazole to get him well again. Whether it's his bowels, gums or skin giving him trouble, this drug can get rid of the bacteria responsible for the ailment.
What does it mean when a cat has diarrhea?
Colitis. If your poor Kitty suffers from colitis, you know he's in misery. He can go from one elimination extreme to the other, experiencing diarrhea and then constipation. It hurts to poop, and he often feels the need to go whether he produces anything or not.
Can metronidazole cause diarrhea in cats?
Side Effects. While generally safe and effective, some cats might suffer from side effects when dosed with metronidazole. Common side effects include appetite loss, vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, excess salivation and blood in the urine.
Does metronizadale work on cats?
It's also rapidly absorbed by Kitty's body, getting to work right away.
Can you give metronidazole to pregnant animals?
Food and Drug Administration for use in humans, veterinarians might prescribe it for their patients "off-label.". Don't give metronidazole to pregnant or lactating animals.
What is Flagyl?
Flagyl ( metronidazole) is an antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections of the vagina, stomach, liver, skin, joints , brain and spinal cord, lungs, heart, or bloodstream.
How long does Flagyl last?
Flagyl is usually given for up to 10 days in a row.
What should I avoid while using Flagyl?
While taking Flagyl and for 3 days after your last dose: Do not drink alcohol or consume foods, medicines, or other products that contain alcohol or propylene glycol. You may have unpleasant effects such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and warmth or tingling under your skin.
What other drugs will affect Flagyl?
Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medicines at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you use, which may increase side effects or make the medicines less effective.
How long after stopping Flagyl can you drink alcohol?
Do not drink alcohol or consume foods or medicines that contain propylene glycol while you are taking Flagyl and for at least 3 days after you stop taking it.
What is metronidazole cancer?
a nerve disorder. In animal studies, metronidazole caused certain types of tumors, some of which were cancerous.
Can you take flagyl by mouth?
Flagyl injection is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth.
at A Glance
About
- Flagyl (Metronidazole) is a prescription-only antibiotic and antiprotozoal medication which is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial and protozoal infections in several animals including cats, dogs and humans. Flagyl is a member of the drug classes amebicides and nitroimidazoles. The drug has not been approved for use in cats by the Food and Dr...
What Does Flagyl Treat?
- Protozoal infections which include Giardia, Trichomonas and Balantidium coli
- Enteric and systemic anaerobic bacterial infections (anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that do not require oxygen for growth) such as dental infections, bone infections, gum disease, feline acne, int...
- Perioperative surgical prophylaxis (colorectal surgery)
- Protozoal infections which include Giardia, Trichomonas and Balantidium coli
- Enteric and systemic anaerobic bacterial infections (anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that do not require oxygen for growth) such as dental infections, bone infections, gum disease, feline acne, int...
- Perioperative surgical prophylaxis (colorectal surgery)
- Adjunctive therapy of inflammatory bowel disease
Mechanism of Action
- Infected and inflamed tissue often has poor oxygen supply, and only anaerobic bacteria can survive. The exact mechanism of action is not entirely understood, but it is thought to disrupt DNA and nucleic acid synthesis in anaerobic bacteria. Susceptible bacteria include Bacteroides spp, Clostridium spp, Eubacterium spp, Fusobacterium spp, Veillonella spp, Peptococcus spp, Peptos…
Dosage
- Giardiasis: The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) recommends a dose of 25 mg per kiloto twice a day for 5 days.
- Feline trichomoniasis: 30 – 50 mg per kg twice a day for 3-14 days.
- Perioperative surgical prophylaxis: 15 mg per kg IV over 30-60 minutes to be completed 1 hour before surgery. Flagyl is usually used in conjunction with cefazolin.
- Giardiasis: The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) recommends a dose of 25 mg per kiloto twice a day for 5 days.
- Feline trichomoniasis: 30 – 50 mg per kg twice a day for 3-14 days.
- Perioperative surgical prophylaxis: 15 mg per kg IV over 30-60 minutes to be completed 1 hour before surgery. Flagyl is usually used in conjunction with cefazolin.
- Anaerobic infections: 15 mg per kg intravenously every 12 hours or 10 – 15 mg per kg.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, administer as soon as possible unless the next dose is due soon. If you miss more than one dose, consult your cat’s veterinarian. Do not give your cat two doses at once.
Overdose/Acute Toxicity
- Seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat has ingested a higher than the prescribed dose of Flagyl. Signs of intoxication include loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, dilated pupils, nystagmus, ataxia, head tilt, ataxia, tremors, seizures, bradycardia, rigidity and stiffness. These symptoms may develop due to acute overdoses or in some cats on long-term therapy.
Drug Interactions
- The following drug interactions have been reported or are theoretical in humans or animals and therefore may be of importance for cats receiving treatment. The use of Flagyl with the following drugs may not be contraindicated but potential risks and close monitoring may be necessary. 1. Busulfan 2. Cimetidine 3. Cyclosporine 4. Fluorouracil 5. Phenobarbital 6. Warfarin
Contraindications
- Flagyl is contraindicated in cats who are hypersensitive to the drug or nitroimidazole derivatives. It is not recommended for use in pregnant cats as it has been known to cause birth defects in laboratory animals Do not administer to lactating catsor young kittens. Use with caution in cats with kidney or liver disease.
Side Effects
- Most common: 1. Vomiting and loss of appetite due to nausea 2. Drooling due to the unpleasant taste (this is self-limiting) Less common: Because Flagyl can cross the blood-brain barrier, neurologic side effects can develop, these are more common in cats who are on long-term therapy or if the cat takes a high dose. 1. Central nervous toxicity (rarely) which can include nyst…