Clavamox for Dogs

Clavamox for dogs is an antibiotic medication that’s used to treated different types of bacterial infections that develop in dogs. This medication is available in both table and liquid form. Tablets are sold individually and the liquid medication is available as oral drops. Since it’s a prescription medication, it has to be administered exactly according to vet instructions. The tablets are generally prescribed as a course that shouldn’t be discontinued even if the pet shows signs of recovery.

What Does Clavamox Contain?

Clavamox is made up of two active ingredients namely amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Since it’s a broad spectrum antibiotic, it can be used to treat different bacterial infections like skin infections, respiratory tract infections, ear infections and urinary tract diseases.

Although effective, the drug is not ideal for use in all pets. If your dog has suffered from an adverse reaction to any other medication that contained penicillin, you should inform the vet about the same as Clavamox might not be right for your dog. Clavamox does cure different bodily infections but it shouldn’t be given to dogs that suffer from liver diseases or kidney problems.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage differs for Clavamox tablets and oral drops. If your dog is prescribed Clavamox tablets, you will have to give him 6.25 mg of medication per pound of body weight. This dose should be given two times a day, orally. If the vet has prescribed oral drops, you will have to administer 1ml for every 10 pounds of body weight, orally.

These are only generally dosage instructions. Since every dog responds differently to medication, make sure you follow the dosage instructions that are given to you by the vet. The medication cannot be administered for longer than one month or 30 days and should ideally be given along with food.

Precautions for Clavamox Use

If your dog gets pregnant after you’ve started administering the medication, you should inform the vet immediately. Also watch your dog carefully while the course is being administered as some pets may develop side effects to the drug.

Overdose can intensify the side effects of this medication and can prove fatal. You must therefore make it a point to give the medication on time, in the right amount.

Side Effects Include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Fungal infections
  • Yeast infections

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Although the symptoms listed above should be brought to the notice of the vet if they don’t subside, other symptoms like swelling of the lips, difficulty breathing and skin reactions warrant immediate medical care.

The medication could also cause drug interactions when combined with certain antibiotics. If you notice anything unusual, take your pet for a checkup as soon as possible.

Since antibiotics are known to cause several side effects in pets its best that you consider administering herbal remedies to your dog to control recurring skin or urinary tract infections. Also make sure you keep your home clean and wash your pet’s bedding regularly so that you minimize his exposure to germs and other infectious agents.

 

 

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