Inhibits electron transport in coccidial mitochondria, blocking sporozoite development. Coccidiostatic — prevents replication but does not kill existing organisms. Used prophylactically, not therapeutically.
At a glance
Class
Anticoccidial (Quinolone Derivative)
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from moisture
Dosing
Used for prevention of Isospora coccidiosis in kennels and breeding facilities
Frequency
q12h or continuous in food
Ponazuril or sulfadimethoxine preferred for feline coccidiosis
Safety
Fecal oocyst countsClinical signs of coccidiosis in facility
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Decoquinate?
Decoquinate is a anticoccidial (quinolone derivative) used in pets. Inhibits electron transport in coccidial mitochondria, blocking sporozoite development. Coccidiostatic — prevents replication but does not kill existing organisms. Used prophylactically, not therapeutically.
›What is Decoquinate used for in pets?
Decoquinate is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for prevention of Isospora coccidiosis in kennels and breeding facilities; Ponazuril or sulfadimethoxine preferred for feline coccidiosis.
›What is the Decoquinate dose for dogs?
For dogs, Decoquinate is typically dosed as follows — Used for prevention of Isospora coccidiosis in kennels and breeding facilities: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO (mixed in food) q12h or continuous in food. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Decoquinate dose for cats?
For cats, Decoquinate is typically dosed as follows — Ponazuril or sulfadimethoxine preferred for feline coccidiosis: undefined undefined N/A N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Decoquinate need a prescription?
Decoquinate is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
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.
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