Binds penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis; bactericidal against gram-positive cocci and some gram-negative organisms
At a glance
Class
First-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Storage
Store below 25°C; reconstituted solution stable 24h refrigerated
Dosing
Surgical prophylaxis / Skin and soft tissue infections
Max dose
1000 mg/dose; 3000 mg/day
Duration: 5–7 days; single dose for surgical prophylaxis
Surgical prophylaxis / Skin infections
Max dose
250 mg/dose; 750 mg/day
Duration: 5–7 days
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Pain at injection site
GI upset
Serious
Anaphylaxis
Nephrotoxicity (rare)
Thrombophlebitis (IV)
CBCRenal function with prolonged useInjection site reactions
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Cefazolin?
Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in pets. Binds penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis; bactericidal against gram-positive cocci and some gram-negative organisms
›What is Cefazolin used for in pets?
Cefazolin is used in veterinary medicine for: Surgical prophylaxis / Skin and soft tissue infections; Surgical prophylaxis / Skin infections.
›What is the Cefazolin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cefazolin is typically dosed as follows — Surgical prophylaxis / Skin and soft tissue infections: 20–25 mg/kg IV/IM TID (q8h). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Cefazolin dose for cats?
For cats, Cefazolin is typically dosed as follows — Surgical prophylaxis / Skin infections: 20–25 mg/kg IV/IM TID (q8h). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Cefazolin?
Common: Pain at injection site, GI upset. Serious (call your vet immediately): Anaphylaxis, Nephrotoxicity (rare), Thrombophlebitis (IV).
›Does Cefazolin need a prescription?
Yes. Cefazolin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Cefazolin not be used?
Do not use Cefazolin if: Known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins.
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.
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