{"id":549318,"date":"2024-03-15T19:14:43","date_gmt":"2024-03-15T23:14:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/?p=549318"},"modified":"2024-06-21T10:15:35","modified_gmt":"2024-06-21T14:15:35","slug":"metronidazole-for-cats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/ask-the-vet\/metronidazole-for-cats\/","title":{"rendered":"Metronidazole for Cats: Our Vet Explains the Dosage, Uses & Side Effects"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n <\/span>\n \nMetronidazole Overview<\/a>
\nHow Is Metronidazole Given?<\/a>
\nWhat Happens if You Miss a Dose?<\/a>
\nRisk of Metronidazole Toxicity<\/a>
\nPrecautions<\/a>
\nDrug Interactions<\/a>
\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/a>
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Metronidazole is a common medication found on the shelves of veterinary hospitals and pharmacies. This antibiotic is used to treat several different disorders and has been very valuable to veterinary patients, although its use in dogs and cats is considered extra-label in the United States. So, continue reading below to learn about the dosages, uses, and potential side effects of this medication for cats specifically.<\/p>\n

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What Is Metronidazole?<\/h2>\n

Metronidazole, or Flagyl, is an antimicrobial and antiprotozoal drug often used to treat conditions that cause diarrhea. This medication is advantageous against common protozoan parasites including Giardia<\/em> and anaerobic bacteria. In addition to infectious causes, it has been helpful in controlling inflammatory bowel disease and hepatic encephalopathy. Metronidazole has anti-inflammatory effects.<\/p>\n

Dosing recommendations vary depending on the illness being treated. Care should be taken to administer the medication as prescribed by the provider.<\/p>\n

It is also important to follow storage information found on the medication packaging, as storage recommendations may differ between compounded products.<\/p>\n

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Image Credit: luchschenF, Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

How Is Metronidazole Given?<\/h2>\n

Metronidazole can be given orally as either a liquid, capsule, or tablet. It is also available in an injection form for use within a hospital setting. Metronidazole is often bitter and can be difficult to disguise the taste, making it difficult to administer, especially to cats. Compounded metronidazole benzoate is more readily accepted by cats, as it is less bitter.<\/p>\n

Generally, Metronidazole is given twice daily. Some conditions requiring long-term treatment with Metronidazole may do well with once-daily dosing. In the event of an accidental overdose, contact your veterinarian.<\/p>\n

Potential Side Effects of Metronidazole<\/div>
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