Inhibits ergosterol synthesis by blocking lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51), disrupting fungal cell membrane integrity
At a glance
Class
Imidazole antifungal
Dosing
Nasal aspergillosis, dermatophytosis, otitis externa
Route
topical, intranasal infusion
Frequency
BID to TID (topical); single infusion (nasal)
Duration: 2–4 weeks topical; single 1-hour intranasal infusion
Dermatophytosis, otitis externa
Duration: 2–4 weeks
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Local irritation
Erythema at application site
Serious
Contact dermatitis (rare)
Ototoxicity if tympanic membrane ruptured (otic use)
Resolution of fungal lesionsSigns of local irritation
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Otibiotic (combination)
Virbac
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Clotrimazole?
Clotrimazole is a imidazole antifungal used in pets. Inhibits ergosterol synthesis by blocking lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51), disrupting fungal cell membrane integrity
›What is Clotrimazole used for in pets?
Clotrimazole is used in veterinary medicine for: Nasal aspergillosis, dermatophytosis, otitis externa; Dermatophytosis, otitis externa.
›What is the Clotrimazole dose for dogs?
For dogs, Clotrimazole is typically dosed as follows — Nasal aspergillosis, dermatophytosis, otitis externa: 1 % topical topical/intranasal infusion BID to TID (topical); single infusion (nasal). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Clotrimazole dose for cats?
For cats, Clotrimazole is typically dosed as follows — Dermatophytosis, otitis externa: 1 % topical topical BID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Clotrimazole?
Common: Local irritation, Erythema at application site. Serious (call your vet immediately): Contact dermatitis (rare), Ototoxicity if tympanic membrane ruptured (otic use).
›Does Clotrimazole need a prescription?
Clotrimazole is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
›When should Clotrimazole not be used?
Do not use Clotrimazole if: Known hypersensitivity to azole antifungals.
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.
Find a vet near you →