Metronidazole is an antibiotic that is useful in treating bacterial and parasitic infections in dogs. As is the case with most medications, this one too may have some adverse effect on canines. This DogAppy write-up has information on the possible side effects of metronidazole on dogs.
Remember!
Be very careful while giving medication to your pet. If you happen to miss a dose, you can give it later. However, if it is close to the time of the next dose, you will need to skip it, and administer the next dose on time. Never, ever give your pet double the dose to compensate the missed one.
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that treats a variety of ailments, including inflammatory bowel disease, certain diarrheal disorders, Giardia infections, and periodontal disease. This medication is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal, and requires a prescription from the veterinarian. Metronidazole is sold in the tablet form.
Metronidazole is particularly potent against anaerobic infections, which are caused by bacteria that can live without oxygen. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and has proven useful in combating diarrhea brought upon by several diseases.
Possible Side Effects of Metronidazole
Antibiotic medications can, at times, cause diarrhea. This may or may not be the sign of a new infection. If your pet is suffering from diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it, you must consult the vet immediately. Do not administer any medication on your own to stop diarrhea before speaking to the veterinarian.
Certain dogs may be allergic to metronidazole, and may display some tell-tale signs. You need to seek emergency attention if your dog displays any of the following symptoms:
- Hives
- Breathlessness
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Fever, accompanied by chills
- Sores inside the mouth, on the tongue, or lips
- Blood in the urine/dark urine
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
Some dogs may display less-alarming symptoms like:
- Nausea
- Loss of balance
- Dry mouth
- Cough and sneezing
Besides, if you observe any other signs of distress in your dog, ensure that you report it to the vet immediately.
Drugs That Affect Metronidazole
You must inform your vet if your dog is already taking any of the medicines listed below. These may have an adverse effect on metronidazole.
- Cimetidine
- Sedatives
- Anticoagulants
- Phenytoin
- Phenobarbital
There may be other medicines besides these which affect the function of metronidazole. Therefore, it is recommended that you inform your vet about any medication your dog may be consuming currently. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and any other drugs prescribed by other vets.
Limitations of Metronidazole
Remember that this drug cannot be given to your dog if she is pregnant or lactating, or even if you plan to breed her in the near future. Inform your vet if your dog is currently suffering or has had a history of kidney or liver disease. This drug is not suitable for puppies.
Always exercise utmost caution while giving any kind of medication to your dog. Do not hesitate to consult the vet if you spot the slightest discomfort in your dog―early detection of distress goes a long way in preserving the health of your beloved pet.
Disclaimer: This DogAppy article is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for the advice of a veterinarian.
