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Are you wondering if Cefdinir is safe enough for your dog? It’s an excellent question!
First thing’s first: Vets do sometimes prescribe this drug.
In fact, pets are living longer than ever thanks in large part to broad-spectrum antibiotics like this one.
With that being said, using a leftover supply is too risky. Do not make that mistake.
While Cefdinir fights and prevents bacterial infections, its use is not to be taken lightly. Even if this medication makes sense for your dog, there are several factors to consider before treatment can begin.
Dogs Can Take Cefdinir With A Vet’s Prescription
Also known as Cefzon or Omnicef, it is administered orally and comes in 300mg capsules as well as a lesser strength liquid suspension.
While Cefdinir is usually effective under the right circumstances, it’s often not the best option. Rarely is it the first choice among professionals.
A Veterinarian’s Expert Advice
Sara Redding Ochoa (DVM), one of our regular contributors, offered the following advice…
“It is essential that treatment begin with the right antibiotic. Otherwise, you could unnecessarily cause your dog to develop an antibiotic resistance. Cefdinir is typically used only for severe cases. Most mild bacterial infections can be treated with a much milder antibiotic.”
Compare Cefdinir With Others
Antibiotics are given to dogs for many different types of infections including those of the urinary tract (UTIs), ears and skin. They’re also prescribed for post surgery prevention purposes.
In any case, here is what professionals frequently use on their canine patients:
- Cephalexin (a very similar antibiotic)
- Enrofloxacin (trade name Baytril)
- Sulfadimethoxine (Di-Methox or Albon)
- Amoxycilin
- Oxytetracycline (Liquamycin)
- Tetracycline
The above-mentioned drugs, despite being popular with professionals, also come with risks for dogs — especially when they are misused.
Is Cefdinir any more dangerous than these other antibiotics?
We don’t see any evidence of that.
Nevertheless, you should weigh the options. Bactrim and Cephalexin are options to ask your vet about before going it alone with Cefdinir.
Cefdinir Has Its Downsides
This isn’t unique to Cefdinir, but the potential side effects are extensive. Your dog could have bad reactions ranging from mild symptoms to severe complications.
Watch for these:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of balance
- Tiredness
- Poor appetite
Some symptoms are not as apparent. Monitor changes in behavior as well as mood.
More serious signs include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling
- Rashes
- Hives ie. skin irritations
Allergies and other rejections of the drug are also possible.
Play it safe. Again, consult with a vet before administering Cefdinir — especially for pregnant dogs!
Cefdinir Complications – Act Fast
What to do if you notice bad symptoms while your dog is on Cefdinir?
That’s simple! Stop use and head to the vet.
Hydrogen peroxide, in certain serious cases, is used to induce the dog to vomit.
One thing is certain:
Overdoses require urgent treatment to prevent further absorption.
Effective Use of Antibiotics
Safety is number one, but you also want to make sure the antibiotic is effective.
Completing a prescribed dose is very important. In other words, even if a dog appears to be fully recovered, they need to finish the treatment.
Correct dosage and duration are key to a recovery.
But, again, avoid using any antibiotic just because you have extra on hand!
The Bottom Line
Only provide Cefdinir, a cephalosporin type antibiotic, to your dog if a trusted vet has signed off on it.
A full treatment plan, including dosage, should be entirely based on your pet’s medical situation and not on the hope that it will help knock out an infection.
Many factors go into choosing an antibiotic. Cefdinir may not be optimal.
Getting a professional’s advice is absolutely necessary.
It would be helpful to know if the risks in using cefdinir, a third generation cephalosporin, are any greater than using first generation cephalosporin other than a potential for less efficacy. I’m asking specifically for adverse side effects.
This was very helpful in deciding whether to give my dog Cefdinir or not. I’m cautious and was surprised that it’s sometimes prescribed to dogs. I have Cefdinir (300mg) for an ear infection and, since my dog does has an ear infection, I decided to do some investigation. I can’t see my vet until next week. This is why I’m trying to help my pet. Thank you for your concerns and info.