Selectively inhibits mitochondrial electron transport at complex III in protozoa, collapsing the mitochondrial membrane potential and blocking pyrimidine biosynthesis. Active against Babesia, Pneumocystis, Toxoplasma, and Hepatozoon.
At a glance
Class
Antiprotozoal (Hydroxynaphthoquinone)
Storage
Store at room temperature 15–25°C; do not freeze oral suspension
Dosing
Used for Babesia gibsoni (combined with azithromycin 10 mg/kg q24h)
Used for cytauxzoonosis and babesiosis in cats (with azithromycin)
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 →Safety
Babesia/Hepatozoon PCR post-treatmentHepatic enzymesGI tolerancePCV/hematocrit
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 →Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
Other markets
Malarone (with proguanil)
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Atovaquone?
Atovaquone is a antiprotozoal (hydroxynaphthoquinone) used in pets. Selectively inhibits mitochondrial electron transport at complex III in protozoa, collapsing the mitochondrial membrane potential and blocking pyrimidine biosynthesis. Active against Babesia, Pneumocystis, Toxoplasma, and Hepatozoon.
›What is Atovaquone used for in pets?
Atovaquone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for Babesia gibsoni (combined with azithromycin 10 mg/kg q24h); Used for cytauxzoonosis and babesiosis in cats (with azithromycin).
›What is the Atovaquone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Atovaquone is typically dosed as follows — Used for Babesia gibsoni (combined with azithromycin 10 mg/kg q24h): 13.3 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Atovaquone dose for cats?
For cats, Atovaquone is typically dosed as follows — Used for cytauxzoonosis and babesiosis in cats (with azithromycin): 15 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Atovaquone need a prescription?
Yes. Atovaquone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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 →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database