What Are the Uses of Cefpodoxime for Dogs?

Cefpodoxime for dogs is an antibiotic in the cephalosporin family. It is classified as a broad-spectrum antibiotic, which means that it is effectively used to treat a wide variety of infections. The main benefit this drug has over penicillin drugs for dogs is the variety of bacteria it is effective against.

One use of cefpodoxime for dogs is in urinary tract infections. As in humans, this infection is caused when bacteria enter the urinary tract and grow. Symptoms include urinating often, difficulty urinating, urinating in the house in housebroken dogs, and lethargy. Any dog experiencing these symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Infected wounds are common in dogs, who may get into fights or accidentally injured while exploring outdoors. Symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, and discharge from the wound. These infections may be treated with cefpodoxime, which is particularly effective against the common skin bacteria staphylococcus and streptococcus.

Pneumonia, which may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, is also treated with cefpodoxime for dogs. Symptoms include fever, cough, and rapid breathing, and is most commonly found in puppies and elderly dogs. Cefpodoxime is only effective against bacterial cases of pneumonia.

Side effects of cefpodoxime for dogs are usually not serious. Some dogs may experience diarrhea and appetite loss. Allergic reaction can occur in some dogs, particularly those who have reacted to penicillin. A dog who vomits after receiving this medication is sensitive to it, and must be prescribed a different antibiotic. Female dogs who are pregnant or lactating may not be able to safely take this drug.

The typical dose of cefpodoxime for dogs is 2.3 to 4.5 milligrams per pound of the dog's weight. One pill is given every 24 hours; treatment should typically be continued for the prescribed amount of time. The dog may seem better after only a few days of antibiotics, but the infection may return and may even be more resistant to treatment if the medicine is stopped prematurely.

It may be difficult to give a dog oral medication. To give tablets, it may be helpful to form a ball of food, such as bread or wet dog food, and hide the pill in the middle. If the dog does not eat the food, or spits out the pill, it may be necessary for the owner to open the dog's mouth and insert the pill as far back on the tongue as possible. Since manually inserting a pill into a dog's mouth can end with being bit, there are special devices available to shoot the pill into the dog's mouth.

For more information on pet care and other helpful resources, visit Pettable's blog.