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
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
Local irritation
Erythema at application site
Serious
Contact dermatitis (rare)
Ototoxicity if tympanic membrane ruptured (otic use)
Resolution of fungal lesionsSigns of local irritation
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
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.
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