Cephalexin is an antibiotic that is therefore indicated for the treatment of different infections caused by bacteria, as we will see in this article on our site. It is a common medicine in both human and veterinary medicine, that is, cephalexin for dogs can be included in certain treatments, of course, as long as it is prescribed by the veterinarian.
It is very important that antibiotics are only administered with the dosage and the pattern indicated by the veterinary clinic, otherwise the animal could suffer serious he alth consequences. Keep reading to discover all about cephalexin for dogs, what it is for, what is the recommended dose and what side effects it can have.
What is cephalexin for dogs?
Cephalexin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic Specifically, it is a cephalosporinof first generation calls. It is a beta-lactam antibiotic that works by binding, within the cytoplasmic membrane of the bacteria, to the enzymes that are responsible for forming the cell wall. This prevents them from being properly protected and ends up leading to the death of the bacteria.
Cephalexin for dogs is the same as for humans, but it is marketed by different laboratories, some specifically for veterinary use. There is a drug for humans and animals, it is always advisable to choose veterinary cephalexin, since it is formulated for dogs. In fact, depending on the legislation in force in our place of residence, the veterinarian may have to prescribe only cephalexin for sale for dogs.
Currently, we find cephalexin for injectable dogs, in syrup or in tablets, the latter being the most used option.
What is cephalexin used for in dogs?
As an antibiotic, cephalexin for dogs is used to combat bacterial infections produced by bacteria sensitive to this drug, including including beta-hemolytic streptococci, Staphylococcus intermedius and aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pasteurella or Salmonella. Therefore, it is active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, although, in the latter, the efficacy of this drug is considered variable.
Cephalexin in dogs can be prescribed for the treatment of pyodermas, which are both superficial and deep skin infections, and other infections bacterial infections such as osteoarticular or those that affect the genitourinary system, the so-called soft tissues, the ear or the respiratory tract. As we can see, it is an effective antibiotic only against certain pathologies, that is why it is the veterinarian who has to recommend its use. In no case should we medicate our dog on our own, much less when we talk about antibiotics. Misuse manages to create resistance that makes antibiotics no longer effective, so stronger antibiotics have to be resorted to, with all the risks that this entails.
Is cephalexin useful for otitis in dogs?
Yes, as we have mentioned, cephalexin for dogs is prescribed to treat ear infections, among others. Of course, it should be the veterinarian who determines that this is the best treatment for your dog's otitis.
Can cephalexin be used for dogs with scabies?
Mange in dogs is a disease caused by mites, so cephalexin will not be the treatment to follow. The vet will indicate the best treatment depending on the type of scabies.
Cephalexin Dosage for Dogs by Weight
What is the dose of cephalexin for dogs? The dose of cephalexin will depend on the weight of our dog and the format of the chosen drug, since a cephalexin syrup will not be the same as a cephalexin injectable or in tablets, tablets or capsules. The veterinarian will prescribe the most appropriate presentation for our dog, taking into account the pathology and looking for the easiest and least stressful form of administration for the animal.
In addition, the dose and administration schedule must take into account both the type of infection and the pathogen that causes it, which can be determined by performing a culture. Cephalexin can be given every 12 or every 8 hours, according to veterinary criteria. It is important to know that oral cephalexin is recommended to be administered with food to avoid its adverse effects, basically of a digestive nature. It can also be broken up to mix with food.
The dose marked for the oral route ranges between 20 and 60 mg per kg of weight of the dog and must be maintained for a few 5-7 days after the remission of the symptoms, as indicated by the veterinarian. Treatments are prolonged, lasting several weeks. It is very important that the veterinarian adjust the dose, for which the dog must be weighed correctly, and that we worry about giving it to him in its entirety, since, if the amount we administer is insufficient, it will not be effective.
The price of cephalexin for dogs will vary considerably depending on the brand and the format that the veterinarian prescribes. As an example, we can find boxes of 14 tablets for about 20 euros or 100 tablets for almost 40.
Can you give human cephalexin to a dog?
Yes, you can, since, as indicated above, cephalexin for dogs is almost the same as for humans. However, we insist that it is preferable to opt for cephalexin for veterinary use because it has been specially designed to treat infections in dogs, with its corresponding studies. If you have no choice but to use the human version, we recommend consulting your vet first to find out the dosage.
Contraindications of cephalexin for dogs
Cephalexin is contraindicated for all those dogs hypersensitive to cephalosporins. Also, it is not recommended to give cephalexin to pregnant or lactating bitches, as no data are available on its safety with respect to fetuses or puppies. Only the vet can assess the risks and decide whether or not to prescribe it. The same goes for dogs with kidney failure.
Cephalexin Side Effects for Dogs
Among the side effects of cephalexin for dogs, the most common are digestive when cephalexin is administered orally. These are nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, usually of a mild nature. Hence, it is recommended to offer this drug with food. In the event that these effects do not subside or worsen, treatment must be stopped and the veterinarian notified immediately.
Cephalexin Injection for Dogs may develop weakness as well as a localized tissue reaction (in the tissues) in the area where the drug has been administered. This reaction should subside after 24-48 hours, if not, it is necessary to go to the veterinary clinic.
