Can Human Amoxicillin Be Given to Cats?

It’s the weekend, the vet’s office is closed and suddenly your cat becomes sick with sneezing, a runny nose or has a cut that looks as if it might be infected. You may ask yourself, “Can I give human amoxicillin to my cat”? Technically the answer is yes, but it is not recommended until you at least speak with your Vet. The dosages between a human strength amoxicillin capsule or tablet and the amount that an average size cat would take are totally out of proportion, so much so that it might do more harm than good to give human amoxicillin to the pet. One of the negative side effects of giving your cat human amoxicillin is the chance of overdose. This can cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea that may cause dehydration, which can prove deadly. Another negative side effect is that if the cat does not have its own prescription for the antibiotic, it may not receive enough of the medication needed to destroy the bacteria that is causing the infection. Taking antibiotics for less then the required time can actually be worse then not taking any medication at all.

What is Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is what is known as a broad spectrum antibiotic. It is used in humans and pets alike to rid the body of bad bacteria caused from a wide variety of ailments or conditions. Many times it is used to treat skin infections, ear infections, respiratory illnesses and/or urinary or bladder infections. All types of Amoxicillin requires a prescription from a doctor or licensed veterinarian. Amoxicillin is the generic name for Biomox, Robamox, Amoxil and Trimox. Amoxicillin is similar to penicillin, so should not be given to cats that have a history of showing allergic reactions to either medication.

What is the Approximate Dose of Amoxicillin for an Average Size Cat?

Amoxicillin comes in a variety of ways. Liquid is the most common way it is given to cats, but may also be prescribed in tablet or capsule form.The usual dose of amoxicillin for a cat is five to ten milligrams per pound of body weight. It is normally given every twelve hours, but the vet will decide the final best dosage depending on what illness the cat is suffering from. If the cat starts showing any side effects from the medication such as bloody diarrhea, immediately contact the vet. This is also necessary if the cat starts showing any signs of an allergic reaction which may include swelling in the face, lips or tongue, shortness of breath or seizures.

Conclusion:

As stated above, if you find that you have a sick cat and a vet is not available, (there are often times 24 hour a day pet clinics that can be reached), and you are wondering to yourself “Can I give human amoxicillin to my cat”, technically you can, but please do so with extreme caution and only as a last result. Whatever is ailing the kitty should be diagnosed by a qualified vet as soon as possible. Many times giving a cat a dose of human amoxicillin will do no harm at all, but other times it may make matters worse, or do nothing at all if the cat is suffering from a virus of some sort. Human and pet Amoxicillin is basically the exact same medication, but the dosage needs to be set correctly according to weight and also after finding out exactly what the illness is that the cat is suffering from. Keep in mind that some human medications such as aspirin or Tylenol are toxic to felines.


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