Ciprofloxacin should not be used without consulting a veterinarian. Your vet will be able to properly evaluate your dog, perhaps run diagnostic tests such as blood or urine tests. Only after a thorough exam is done and a diagnosis made will medication prescribed.
Did You Know?
The daily dosage of ciprofloxacin varies from 5 to 7 mg for every pound of the dog’s weight.
Is ciprofloxacin safe for veterinary use? The antibiotic is available for dogs is considered off-label because it is a human formulation and does not have FDA approval.
The medication can treat UTIs, ear infections, and wounds in dogs. Ciprofloxacin eye drops may also be recommended to relieve bacterial eye infections in dogs. This human drug preparation is relatively safe in dogs but make sure it is prescribed by an experienced and competent veterinarian before usage.
Safety of Ciprofloxacin in Dogs
The safety of your dog is your top priority therefore, whenever giving ciprofloxacin to your dog, you need to know the circumstances that can make it unsafe for him and above all consult your veterinarian.
Age
Experts warn against the use of ciprofloxacin in dogs who haven’t yet reached 1 year of age. This drug may interfere with the growth of the dog’s bones and joints.
During this phase, there is enormous growth and development in puppies. However, ciprofloxacin can inhibit the normal development of connective tissues in the dog’s joints and bones. There are reports of ciprofloxacin severely damaging the cartilage of weight-carrying joints. To ensure the healthy growth of bones and joints, you need to avoid giving antibiotics like ciprofloxacin to your less than a 1-year-old dog.
Pregnancy
Pregnant dogs are not suitable for treatment with ciprofloxacin. The U.S. FDA has classified ciprofloxacin as a pregnancy C category drug, which means animal studies have proven that the medication can negatively affect fetal development. The offspring of dogs exposed to ciprofloxacin may develop joint problems. Since ciprofloxacin carries a fetal risk, it should therefore not be given to pregnant dogs.
Allergy
Ciprofloxacin is classified as a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. Dogs who are allergic to antibiotics that belong to the fluoroquinolone family cannot take these medications. A severe allergic reaction can cause trouble breathing in dogs, which requires urgent veterinary attention.
Pre-existing Health Condition
A more cautious approach is advised when it comes to giving ciprofloxacin in dogs with kidney or liver problems. The medication is metabolized in the liver and eliminated through the kidneys. Dogs with a history of CNS disorders carry greater chances of getting seizures from the use of these antibiotics.
Side effects can include lethargy, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and vomiting from the veterinary use of ciprofloxacin. As far as the side effects from eye drops are concerned, they may cause eye swelling, corneal defects, and even retinal damage.
Furthermore, for your dog’s overall immune health, make sure you are feeding premium-quality dog food and you can even supplement with fish oil to optimize their health and improve their coat. Prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian.
