If you’ve recently taken your dog to the vet, they may have prescribed the medicine Cephalexin for dogs. Cephalexin or Cefalexin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. So why does your dog need this drug or another type of antibiotic? Generally, dogs are pretty hardy animals. They’ve got to be. But like humans, there are times when they may develop a bacterial infection that needs curing by veterinary medicine.

What is Cephalexin for Dogs?

Cephalexin for dogs is a broad spectrum antibiotic often prescribed by vets. It can treat a range of bacterial infections. It is also known by brand names such as Cephalexin Keflex, Rilexine, Cefadroxil, Sporidex, Biocef, and Keftab. It is an antibiotic that is similar to penicillin and other antibiotics and antimicrobial drugs. These include such as amoxicillin, and cefpodoxime proxetil. As one of the cephalosporins class of antibiotics, it targets a broader range of activity.

Cephalexin for dogs kills gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Cephalexin works by inhibiting or the formation and growth of bacterial cell walls. Cephalexin is absorbed and distributed through the bloodstream during treatment. This means it can reach any affected or infected part of the body.

It is available in different forms. Your vet may prescribe Cephalexin capsules, oral tablets, or chewable tablets. They may also prescribe, a liquid Cephalexin suspension, or give an injection. It will depend on the type of infection your dog has, or other medication your dog may be taking.

What is Cephalexin Used for in Dogs?

As a broad spectrum antibiotic, Cephalexin for dogs is prescribed for many types of bacterial infections. Cephalexin can be effective for the treatment of dog urinary tract infections, ear infections, and skin infections such as canine pyoderma. It is also used for soft tissue infections, bone infections, lung respiratory infections, and respiratory tract infections.

Cephalexin targets many different strains of bacteria. These include staphylococci infections caused by strains such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus and streptococcal infections.

Consult your Vet for the Right Cephalexin Dosage for Dogs

Always follow the advice given in a veterinarian on the right dosage of Cephalexin for your dog. During the consultation, they will have calculated the right dose according to your dog’s body weight. They will also advise how often and for how long you should administer this antibiotic to your pet.

The typical dosage of Cephalexin for dogs is between 10-15 milligrams per pound of body weight. This may mean a 50-pound dog is prescribed 500 mg capsules, but not necessarily! It could be less. Your veterinarian will also take into consideration other aspects of your dog’s health and other medications they are on.

Warning! Watch out for Cephalexin Side Effects in Dogs

The side-effects of Cephalexin are considered minimal. Those to look out for include vomiting and diarrhea, panting, rapid breathing, drooling, skin rashes, and hyper-excitability.

Can Cephalexin Be Toxic?

Always make your veterinarian aware of any other medications or health conditions your pet has. That means they can check that any antibiotic, including Cephalexin, that they prescribe is safe for your pet’s situation.

Cephalexin should not be prescribed to any animals that are allergic to penicillin, or pregnant or nursing pets. There can be reactions and interactions with other medications. Caution is also needed for pets with kidney disease and kidney failure.

Safety Tips to Consider Before Giving your Pooch Cephalexin

Once again, before giving your dog Cephalexin, also make sure you are following your veterinarian’s instructions for your dog.

  • Keep an eye out for side-effects and allergic reactions to the medication. Your vet may suggest giving your Cephalexin to your dog at the same time as a meal to reduce the risk of side effects.
  • Make sure you finish the fully prescribed course of medication. Your dog may seem better before the seven or 10-day duration of medication. But, they may still have pathogens lurking in their system.
  • Don’t use the medication for other pets in your home. The dosage amount and strength relates to the dog your vet assessed.

Is Cephalexin Right For Your Dog?

Are you wondering about your dog’s ability to fight infection? Or perhaps whether they need Cephalexin or another type of antibiotic?

Dogs are frequently exposed to pathogens and bacteria. They have inquisitive noses. They get up close and personal to anything and everything – including the private parts and excrement of other dogs! Dogs will also use their tongues to lick and ingest all kinds of things. Then, of course, there’s the dirt, mud, and dust they so love to roll in when they’ve got an itch on their back they want to scratch!

The immune systems of most healthy dogs are well designed to fight off infection. However, there may be times when they do encounter some type of bacteria that their body reacts to. Or for some reason, their system isn’t able to fight the infection on their own.

Always check with your dog’s veterinarian on whether Cephalexin is right for your dog to get well again.

A Guide for Giving Cephalexin to Your Furry Friend

  • Cephalexin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic used in the treatment of bacterial infections.
  • Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on how much to give and how often.
  • Cephalexin can be administered with or without food. Your vet may advise giving this antibiotic to your dog with food. This can help prevent side-effects.
  • Observe your pet once they start taking any medication. Make sure they do not suffer side-effects or allergic reactions to the drug.
  • Make sure you administer the full course of Cephalexin medication to your dog. This will help ensure the bacterial infection is fully killed off.

How Much Does Cephalexin for Dogs Cost?

The price of Cephalexin varies depending on the brand name it is sold under. Other factors include the number of tablets per bottle, and the size of the concentrations in the tablet, capsule, or oral suspension.

Different Alternative Antibiotics for Dogs

Antibiotics are not always needed for the treatment of infections. Some veterinarians have lasers that can be used to treat bacterial infections. Others may suggest the use of warm compresses. These can help with blood flow and the circulation of white blood cells and oxygen to naturally fight infection. You may also consider looking into natural antibiotics for your pooch.

FAQs about Cephalexin