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Cats + Medications & Supplements

  • Cefadroxil is an antibiotic (first-generation cephalosporin) used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, respiratory tract, and urinary tract in cats and dogs. It may be used off label in other cases. Cefadroxil comes in tablet and powder forms that may be compounded into liquid.

  • Information from PetPlace, by Dr. Dawn Ruben, and Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 7th Edition, by Donald C. Plumb.

  • Cefovecin (brand name: Convenia®) is a cephalosporin antibiotic used off label in cats and dogs for skin infections, periodontal disease, and urinary tract infections. It has also been used as a part of outpatient treatment for parvovirus and other bacterial infections. Cefovecin is given by injection under the skin.

  • Cefpodoxime is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used to treat skin infections in dogs. It is also used off-label in cats and to treat other types of infection. It is given orally in tablet or liquid form. Side effects are uncommon.

  • Information from Go.DrugBank.com and Vet-Ebooks.com.

  • Cephalexin (brand names Rilexine®, Keflex®, Vetolexin®) is an oral antibiotic used to treat pyoderma and other bacterial skin infections in dogs and is used off label (extra-label) in cats, horses, ferrets, reptiles, and birds to treat pyoderma and some other skin infections. It is sometimes used off label (extra label) to treat some urinary tract infections in cats and dogs.

  • Ceramides are naturally occurring lipid (fat) molecules that make up a large portion of the outer skin layer. Ceramide skin care products are available as over-the-counter veterinary products in various topical forms. They are used to help manage skin conditions in dogs, cats, and other animals. Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets.

  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec®, Reactine®) is an antihistamine used off label to treat and prevent pruritus (itching) associated with atopic dermatitis, urticaria (hives), and insect bite reactions in cats and dogs. It may also be used for respiratory allergy symptoms.

  • Cetyl myristoleate is a supplement given by mouth and is used over the counter to treat osteoarthritis, most commonly in dogs. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include gastrointestinal upset. Use cautiously in debilitated, pregnant, or lactating pets. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Chamomile is given by mouth or applied topically and is used off-label and over the counter to treat inflammatory skin conditions, gastrointestinal upset, and anxiety. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon if used at the proper dose, but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other plants in the daisy family. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.