Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBP), providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms
At a glance
Class
Third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic
Storage
Below 25°C, protect from light; reconstituted solution stable 24h at room temp
Dosing
Severe bacterial infections (septicemia, pneumonia, UTI)
Max dose
2000 mg/dose; 4000 mg/day
Duration: 5–14 days
Severe bacterial infections
Max dose
500 mg/dose; 1000 mg/day
Duration: 5–14 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
Mild GI upset
Diarrhea
Serious
Anaphylaxis
Pseudomembranous colitis
Biliary sludging
CBCHepatic functionRenal functionSigns of superinfection
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
International
Convenia (cefovecin related)
Zoetis
India
Monocef
Aristo Pharmaceuticals
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Ceftriaxone?
Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBP), providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms
›What is Ceftriaxone used for in pets?
Ceftriaxone is used in veterinary medicine for: Severe bacterial infections (septicemia, pneumonia, UTI); Severe bacterial infections.
›What is the Ceftriaxone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ceftriaxone is typically dosed as follows — Severe bacterial infections (septicemia, pneumonia, UTI): 15–50 mg/kg IV/IM/SC SID to BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ceftriaxone dose for cats?
For cats, Ceftriaxone is typically dosed as follows — Severe bacterial infections: 15–50 mg/kg IV/IM/SC SID to BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Ceftriaxone?
Common: Pain at injection site, Mild GI upset, Diarrhea. Serious (call your vet immediately): Anaphylaxis, Pseudomembranous colitis, Biliary sludging.
›Does Ceftriaxone need a prescription?
Yes. Ceftriaxone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Ceftriaxone not be used?
Do not use Ceftriaxone if: Known hypersensitivity to cephalosporins or penicillins.
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