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
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
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
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 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.
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