Cephalexin is an antibiotic that is commonly prescribed by veterinarians to treat bacterial infections in dogs. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins and works by interfering with the bacteria’s cell wall formation, which ultimately kills the bacteria. Cephalexin is considered a first generation cephalosporin.
Is Cephalexin Safe For Dogs?
Yes, cephalexin is generally safe for dogs when given at the proper dosage prescribed by a veterinarian. It is FDA approved for use in dogs to treat skin infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections and other bacterial infections susceptible to cephalexin. Some common brand names for cephalexin prescribed to dogs include Keflex, Biocef and Keftab.
Cephalexin is usually well tolerated by dogs but some potential side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy and hyperactivity. More serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reaction, blood disorders and liver damage.
What Conditions Is Cephalexin Used For In Dogs?
Some common uses and dosages of cephalexin in dogs include:
- Skin infections – 10-30 mg/kg every 12-24 hours
- Urinary tract infections – 10-30 mg/kg every 12-24 hours
- Respiratory infections – 10-15 mg/kg every 12-24 hours
- Infected wounds – 15-30 mg/kg every 12-24 hours
- Abscessed tooth root – 15 mg/kg every 12 hours
Cephalexin is effective at treating infections caused by susceptible bacteria including Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, E. coli and Proteus species. It can be used to treat skin infections, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, infected wounds and abscessed tooth roots in dogs when prescribed by a vet.
What Is The Cephalexin 500mg Dosage For Dogs?
The dosage of cephalexin for dogs is typically 10-30 mg per kg body weight given every 12-24 hours. However, the dosage can vary based on the type and severity of infection being treated. Here are some general cephalexin 500mg dosage guidelines based on dog weight:
Dog Weight | Cephalexin Dose |
---|---|
10 lbs | 125 mg every 12-24 hrs |
20 lbs | 250 mg every 12-24 hrs |
30 lbs | 375 mg every 12-24 hrs |
40 lbs | 500 mg every 12-24 hrs |
50 lbs | 625 mg every 12-24 hrs |
60 lbs | 750 mg every 12-24 hrs |
70 lbs | 875 mg every 12-24 hrs |
80 lbs | 1000 mg every 12-24 hrs |
90 lbs | 1125 mg every 12-24 hrs |
100 lbs | 1250 mg every 12-24 hrs |
These cephalexin dosages for dogs are based on using a 500mg capsule or tablet. However, your veterinarian will determine the most appropriate dose for your individual dog based on factors such as the type of infection being treated, your dog’s medical history and response to treatment.
How Long Does It Take For Cephalexin To Work In Dogs?
It usually takes about 1-2 days of cephalexin treatment before improvement is seen in dogs with bacterial infections. Maximum effects may not be evident for 4-5 days. It is important to complete the full course of cephalexin prescribed by your vet, even if your dog seems better, to fully eliminate the infection.
For skin infections, you may see crusting lesions start to resolve within a few days. Urinary tract infections should improve within 2-3 days. More severe infections like pneumonia may take a bit longer to respond.
Let your vet know if your dog’s condition does not seem to be improving within a couple days of starting cephalexin. Your vet may need to adjust the medication dose, frequency or duration of treatment.
How Long Can A Dog Take Cephalexin?
The typical course of cephalexin for dogs is 7-14 days. However, the duration your dog will need to take cephalexin depends on factors such as:
- Type of infection being treated
- Severity of infection
- Your dog’s response to treatment
- Other underlying medical conditions
For uncomplicated infections, most dogs will take cephalexin for 7-10 days. More severe or chronic infections may require longer treatment for 14 days or sometimes longer. It is important to finish the entire course prescribed by your vet, even if symptoms resolve earlier.
Stopping cephalexin too soon can allow remaining bacteria to multiply again, increasing the risk of a recurring or resistant infection. Follow up with your vet as needed to determine if any additional medication is required.
What Are The Side Effects Of Cephalexin In Dogs?
Cephalexin is usually well tolerated by dogs but some possible side effects can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Increased thirst
- Fatigue/lethargy
- Irritation at injection site if given by injection
- Hyperactivity
- Panting
More severe side effects are not common but can include:
- Allergic reaction – facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing
- Kidney dysfunction
- Liver damage
- Blood cell disorders
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog experiences any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking cephalexin. Your vet may adjust the dose or prescribe a different medication if side effects are problematic.
Is There Anything I Should Avoid While My Dog Takes Cephalexin?
There are a few precautions to take while your dog is taking a course of cephalexin:
- Avoid giving your dog any other medications at the same time without first consulting your vet. Cephalexin can interact with some other drugs.
- Space out dosing times if your dog takes other regular medications like heartworm prevention.
- Cephalexin can cause false positive results on some urine glucose tests. Inform your vet if any urine testing is needed while your dog takes this antibiotic.
- Make sure your dog finishes the entire course of cephalexin prescribed by your vet.
- Never give your dog a double dose if a dose is missed – just give the next regular scheduled dose.
Check with your vet before starting any new medications, supplements or treatments while your dog takes a course of cephalexin. Follow your vet’s recommendations to give cephalexin and monitor your dog for any potential side effects.
Can I Give My Dog Cephalexin 500mg if Prescribed 250mg?
No, you should never adjust your dog’s cephalexin dose or give more than the amount prescribed by your vet. Cephalexin should only be given as directed by your veterinarian.
If your vet prescribed 250mg of cephalexin, you should not give 500mg tablets instead. The 250mg dose is specifically prescribed based on your dog’s weight, type of infection, and other factors. Too much cephalexin can cause toxic effects in dogs.
If you are having trouble getting the exact cephalexin dose prescribed by your vet, talk to your pharmacist. They may be able to provide the medication in the right dose or suggest splitting tablets appropriately. For example, one 500mg tablet could be split into two 250mg doses. But again, only make dose adjustments recommended by your vet.
Never increase your dog’s cephalexin dose without explicit approval from your veterinarian. Carefully follow their prescribed dose and treatment schedule. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about adjusting doses or tablet splitting.
Can I Give Cephalexin Prescribed For My Dog To My Cat?
No, you should never give your cat medication prescribed for your dog. Cephalexin and other antibiotics should only be given to pets for which they are prescribed.
While cephalexin is safe for both dogs and cats in general, the dosing is different based on factors like the pet’s weight and type of infection. Your dog’s cephalexin dose is tailored specifically for them and could be toxic if given incorrectly to your cat.
Cats may also be more prone to side effects of cephalexin like vomiting and diarrhea. Only a veterinarian should prescribe cephalexin or any antibiotic for a cat after an examination and diagnosis.
Never share medications between pets without explicit approval from a vet. It can be very dangerous to give your cat cephalexin prescribed for your dog. Get a separate veterinary prescription for your cat if antibiotic treatment is needed.
Can a Human Take Cephalexin Prescribed for a Dog?
No, humans should never take cephalexin or any medication prescribed for animals. Cephalexin doses for dogs are much higher than typical human doses. Taking dog cephalexin could lead to an accidental overdose for a person.
It is also illegal and medically unethical for a doctor to prescribe cephalexin for a human without first evaluating the person. Self-prescribing antibiotic treatment can be dangerous.
Additionally, taking cephalexin prescribed for your dog could mean not enough medication remains for the full course of treatment needed for your dog’s infection. This can lead to a relapse or antibiotic resistance.
Only take cephalexin or any antibiotics under the direct care and supervision of your own physician. Never take medication prescribed for someone else, human or animal. See your doctor if you have an infection requiring antibiotic treatment.
Conclusion
Cephalexin is a safe and effective antibiotic for dogs when prescribed by a veterinarian to treat bacterial infections. Typical dosing is 10-30 mg per kg every 12-24 hours. Consult your vet for the appropriate cephalexin dose and treatment schedule based on your dog’s specific condition.
Make sure to complete the full course of cephalexin even if your dog seems better to prevent recurrences. Never adjust your dog’s prescribed dose or give cephalexin to other pets without checking with your vet first. With proper veterinary guidance, cephalexin can help clear up many common dog infections.