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Cefixime

Prescription
Third-Generation Cephalosporin
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Third-generation spectrum covers most gram-negative bacteria; less activity against gram-positive than first/second generation. Well absorbed orally.

At a glance

Class
Third-Generation Cephalosporin
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store tablets at room temperature; suspension refrigerated after reconstitution, use within 14 days

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Good oral bioavailability (~50%)
Dose
10 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12–24h
🐈

Cat

Limited data in cats; use based on susceptibility testing
Dose
10 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
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 →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store tablets at room temperature; suspension refrigerated after reconstitution, use within 14 days

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical responseRenal function in compromised patients
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

Suprax
Mahacef

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Cefixime?
Cefixime is a third-generation cephalosporin used in pets. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Third-generation spectrum covers most gram-negative bacteria; less activity against gram-positive than first/second generation. Well absorbed orally.
What is Cefixime used for in pets?
Cefixime is used in veterinary medicine for: Good oral bioavailability (~50%); Limited data in cats; use based on susceptibility testing.
What is the Cefixime dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cefixime is typically dosed as follows — Good oral bioavailability (~50%): 10 mg/kg PO q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Cefixime dose for cats?
For cats, Cefixime is typically dosed as follows — Limited data in cats; use based on susceptibility testing: 10 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Cefixime need a prescription?
Yes. Cefixime 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

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Third-Generation Cephalosporin).

Ceftazidime
Rx
Extended-spectrum cephalosporin with exceptional activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and most gram-negative bacilli. Stable against many beta-lactamases.
dogcat
Ceftiofur Sodium
Rx
Veterinary-specific third-generation cephalosporin with broad gram-negative spectrum including Pasteurella, E. coli, Salmonella, and Klebsiella. Active metabolite desfuroylceftiofur retains antibacterial activity. FDA-approved for dogs.
dogcat
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