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Decoquinate

Anticoccidial (Quinolone Derivative)
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

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)
Schedule
OTC
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for prevention of Isospora coccidiosis in kennels and breeding facilities
Dose
0.5–1 mg/kg
Route
PO (mixed in food)
Frequency
q12h or continuous in food
🐈

Cat

Ponazuril or sulfadimethoxine preferred for feline coccidiosis
Dose
Route
N, A
Frequency
N/A
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 — 1

Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Fecal oocyst countsClinical signs of coccidiosis in facility
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

Other markets

Deccox

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.
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

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Anticoccidial).

Amprolium
Structural analog of thiamine (vitamin B1) that competitively inhibits thiamine uptake by coccidia, disrupting their carbohydrate metabolism and energy production. Selectively toxic to coccidia because they require exogenous thiamine.
dogcat
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