Amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Clavulanate irreversibly inhibits bacterial beta-lactamases, protecting amoxicillin from enzymatic degradation and extending spectrum to beta-lactamase-producing organisms.
At a glance
Class
Beta-Lactam / Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor Combination
Storage
Tablets at room temperature; oral drops refrigerated after reconstitution, discard after 10 days
Dosing
First-line empiric antibiotic for skin infections, UTIs, bite wounds, and respir
First-line for feline UTI, skin infections, bite wound abscesses, and upper resp
Safety
Clinical response at 3–5 daysGI toleranceCulture and sensitivity for refractory cases
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Amoxicillin/Clavulanate?
Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is a beta-lactam / beta-lactamase inhibitor combination used in pets. Amoxicillin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Clavulanate irreversibly inhibits bacterial beta-lactamases, protecting amoxicillin from enzymatic degradation and extending spectrum to beta-lactamase-producing organisms.
›What is Amoxicillin/Clavulanate used for in pets?
Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is used in veterinary medicine for: First-line empiric antibiotic for skin infections, UTIs, bite wounds, and respir; First-line for feline UTI, skin infections, bite wound abscesses, and upper resp.
›What is the Amoxicillin/Clavulanate dose for dogs?
For dogs, Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is typically dosed as follows — First-line empiric antibiotic for skin infections, UTIs, bite wounds, and respir: 12.5–25 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Amoxicillin/Clavulanate dose for cats?
For cats, Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is typically dosed as follows — First-line for feline UTI, skin infections, bite wound abscesses, and upper resp: 12.5 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Amoxicillin/Clavulanate need a prescription?
Yes. Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →