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Paws, Purrs & Exotics Animal Hospital

Amoxicillin

What is amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin (brand names: Amoxil®, Amoxi-Tabs®, Amoxi- Drop®, Bimox®, Moxatag®, Novamoxin®) is an aminopenicillin antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. Most commonly it is used to treat skin, respiratory, and urinary tract infections.

It is used off label (extra label) to treat certain bacterial infections in cats, dogs, ferrets, birds, and reptiles. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is amoxicillin given?

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours. While effects may not be noted outwardly, gradual improvements are usually noticeable after a few days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Common side effects include:

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving amoxicillin and contact your veterinarian immediately: :

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE amoxicillin in

USE WITH CAUTION in

Do not give by mouth to pets with a blood infection, shock, or other grave illnesses, is it will likely be ineffective.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with amoxicillin:

Amoxicillin may also interact with certain urine glucose tests and cause false positive results. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

How do I store amoxicillin?

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Mar 19, 2025.

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