Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins; broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
At a glance
Class
Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8°C; reconstituted solution stable for 7 days refrigerated
Dosing
Susceptible bacterial infections (skin, soft tissue, UTI)
Duration: 5–14 days
Susceptible bacterial infections
Duration: 5–14 days
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Pain at injection site
Mild GI upset
Serious
Anaphylaxis
Blood dyscrasias
CBC if prolonged useRenal function
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ceftiofur?
Ceftiofur is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins; broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
›What is Ceftiofur used for in pets?
Ceftiofur is used in veterinary medicine for: Susceptible bacterial infections (skin, soft tissue, UTI); Susceptible bacterial infections.
›What is the Ceftiofur dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ceftiofur is typically dosed as follows — Susceptible bacterial infections (skin, soft tissue, UTI): 2.2–4.4 mg/kg SC/IM SID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ceftiofur dose for cats?
For cats, Ceftiofur is typically dosed as follows — Susceptible bacterial infections: 2.2–4.4 mg/kg SC/IM SID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Ceftiofur?
Common: Pain at injection site, Mild GI upset. Serious (call your vet immediately): Anaphylaxis, Blood dyscrasias.
›Does Ceftiofur need a prescription?
Yes. Ceftiofur is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Ceftiofur not be used?
Do not use Ceftiofur if: Known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins.
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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