Home/Medicines/Ciprofloxacin

Ciprofloxacin

Prescription

Second-Generation Fluoroquinolone

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

1 available

Interactions

2 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA supercoiling and replication. Concentration-dependent bactericidal activity with broad gram-negative spectrum.

At a glance

Class

Second-Generation Fluoroquinolone

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature; suspension stable 14 days

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Human fluoroquinolone used off-label

Dose

10–20 mg/kg

Route

PO, IV

Frequency

q24h

🐈

Cat

Enrofloxacin preferred in cats

Dose

5–15 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q24h

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 — 3

Strength

—

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature; suspension stable 14 days

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Retinal exam in cats on prolonged therapyRenal functionCulture and sensitivity

Educational reference only

Interactions

Major — 1

Aminophylline

major

Ciprofloxacin inhibits CYP1A2 metabolism of theophylline (aminophylline), increasing levels and toxicity risk (seizures, arrhythmias).

Management: Reduce aminophylline dose by 30-50%. Monitor theophylline levels if available.

Moderate — 1

Sucralfate

moderate

Sucralfate (aluminum) chelates ciprofloxacin, reducing absorption by 50-90%.

Management: Separate by 2 hours. Give ciprofloxacin 2h before or 4h after sucralfate.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Cipro

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is a second-generation fluoroquinolone used in pets. Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, preventing DNA supercoiling and replication. Concentration-dependent bactericidal activity with broad gram-negative spectrum.

›What is Ciprofloxacin used for in pets?

Ciprofloxacin is used in veterinary medicine for: Human fluoroquinolone used off-label; Enrofloxacin preferred in cats.

›What is the Ciprofloxacin dose for dogs?

For dogs, Ciprofloxacin is typically dosed as follows — Human fluoroquinolone used off-label: 10–20 mg/kg PO/IV q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Ciprofloxacin dose for cats?

For cats, Ciprofloxacin is typically dosed as follows — Enrofloxacin preferred in cats: 5–15 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Ciprofloxacin need a prescription?

Yes. Ciprofloxacin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only

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