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Dicloxacillin

Prescription
Penicillinase-Resistant Penicillin
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Isoxazolyl penicillin resistant to staphylococcal beta-lactamase (penicillinase). Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Narrow spectrum — primarily methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and streptococci.

At a glance

Class
Penicillinase-Resistant Penicillin
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; oral solution refrigerated after reconstitution

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for staphylococcal skin infections, osteomyelitis, and wound infections whe
Dose
11–25 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h
🐈

Cat

Same indications as dogs
Dose
11–25 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; oral solution refrigerated after reconstitution

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical responseCulture and sensitivityHepatic enzymes with prolonged use

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Dynapen
Pathocil

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Dicloxacillin?
Dicloxacillin is a penicillinase-resistant penicillin used in pets. Isoxazolyl penicillin resistant to staphylococcal beta-lactamase (penicillinase). Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by binding PBPs. Narrow spectrum — primarily methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and streptococci.
What is Dicloxacillin used for in pets?
Dicloxacillin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for staphylococcal skin infections, osteomyelitis, and wound infections whe; Same indications as dogs.
What is the Dicloxacillin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dicloxacillin is typically dosed as follows — Used for staphylococcal skin infections, osteomyelitis, and wound infections whe: 11–25 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Dicloxacillin dose for cats?
For cats, Dicloxacillin is typically dosed as follows — Same indications as dogs: 11–25 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Dicloxacillin need a prescription?
Yes. Dicloxacillin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

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 →