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Cefuroxime

Prescription
Second-Generation Cephalosporin
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). Bactericidal with activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.

At a glance

Class
Second-Generation Cephalosporin
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Tablets stored at room temperature; reconstituted suspension refrigerated, use within 10 days

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Oral bioavailability improved when given with food
Dose
10–20 mg/kg
Route
PO, IV, IM
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Bitter taste; tablet formulation often poorly accepted; may need to hide in food
Dose
10–20 mg/kg
Route
PO, IV
Frequency
q12h

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
Strength
Strength

Storage

Tablets stored at room temperature; reconstituted suspension refrigerated, use within 10 days

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Renal function for dose adjustmentCBC with prolonged therapy

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Zinacef
Ceftin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Cefuroxime?
Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin used in pets. Beta-lactam antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). Bactericidal with activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
What is Cefuroxime used for in pets?
Cefuroxime is used in veterinary medicine for: Oral bioavailability improved when given with food; Bitter taste; tablet formulation often poorly accepted; may need to hide in food.
What is the Cefuroxime dose for dogs?
For dogs, Cefuroxime is typically dosed as follows — Oral bioavailability improved when given with food: 10–20 mg/kg PO/IV/IM q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Cefuroxime dose for cats?
For cats, Cefuroxime is typically dosed as follows — Bitter taste; tablet formulation often poorly accepted; may need to hide in food: 10–20 mg/kg PO/IV q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Cefuroxime need a prescription?
Yes. Cefuroxime is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

CDSCO approvals (India) — 1

Cefuroxime sodium 250 mg intramammaryinfusion for Veterinary (PFS new dosage fro
Approved 13.12.2011
For the treatment of Clnical madyiyid in milkinh voed.
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

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. Find a vet near you →

Related medicines

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Cefaclor
Rx
Bactericidal beta-lactam that inhibits cell wall synthesis. Second-generation spectrum bridges gram-positive (first-gen) and gram-negative (third-gen) coverage. More active against H. influenzae and Moraxella than first-generation cephalosporins.
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Cefotetan
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Cephamycin antibiotic with enhanced anaerobic coverage compared to other second-gen cephalosporins due to 7-alpha-methoxy group. Excellent activity against Bacteroides fragilis and most Enterobacteriaceae.
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