Bactericidal beta-lactam that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis. First-generation spectrum: excellent gram-positive and moderate gram-negative coverage. Oral bioavailability >90%.
At a glance
Class
First-Generation Cephalosporin
Storage
Tablets at room temperature; suspension refrigerated, use within 14 days
Dosing
Used for skin and soft tissue infections, UTIs, and wound infections
Once-daily dosing effective in cats due to longer half-life
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
Clinical response at 3–5 daysCulture and sensitivity for refractory cases
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.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Cefadroxil?
Cefadroxil is a first-generation cephalosporin used in pets. Bactericidal beta-lactam that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis. First-generation spectrum: excellent gram-positive and moderate gram-negative coverage. Oral bioavailability >90%.
›What is Cefadroxil used for in pets?
Cefadroxil is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for skin and soft tissue infections, UTIs, and wound infections; Once-daily dosing effective in cats due to longer half-life.
›What is the Cefadroxil dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cefadroxil is typically dosed as follows — Used for skin and soft tissue infections, UTIs, and wound infections: 22 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Cefadroxil dose for cats?
For cats, Cefadroxil is typically dosed as follows — Once-daily dosing effective in cats due to longer half-life: 22 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Cefadroxil need a prescription?
Yes. Cefadroxil 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