If your cat has been feeling under the weather, you may be wondering if antibiotics are an appropriate course of treatment. First and foremost, never give your pet any medication without consulting a veterinarian first who can prescribe the appropriate medicine for your cat. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. There is a large difference in antibiotic dosages between humans and pets. The size of humans for one are much bigger than cats, but cats also metabolize things differently than humans. Common antibiotics used in veterinary medicine include amoxicillin, ampicillin, and tetracycline. Antibiotics can be a great way to treat bacterial infections, but you must always follow your veterinarian’s directions closely when administering medication.
Antibiotic Toxicity Symptoms
Your cat may be poisoned by their own or human antibiotics. Toxic doses can lead to mild to severe signs such as gastrointestinal disorder, metabolic malfunction, or damage to the central nervous system. Different types of antibiotics can cause different negative effects. Possible symptoms include:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Teeth discoloration
- Liver failure
- Kidney failure
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Seizures
Treatment
If your cat has been poisoned by their own or unfamiliar antibiotics, contact your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for immediate medical help. Treatment at a veterinary clinic may include inducing vomiting and providing IV fluids. Specific treatment will be determined after your cat is evaluated. Your veterinarian will need to know the dosage, time of ingestion, and type of antibiotic if not already known. If your cat is not feeling well always have a veterinarian look over them so they prescribe the right medication. Follow your veterinarian’s administration directions carefully so you can avoid a poisoning accident. If you have any further questions or concerns do not hesitate to reach out to Pet Poison Helpline and your veterinarian.
