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Minocycline

Prescription
Second-Generation Tetracycline
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Binds 30S ribosomal subunit inhibiting protein synthesis. Most lipophilic tetracycline — excellent CNS and tissue penetration. Active against many doxycycline-resistant organisms. Also has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties independent of antimicrobial activity.

At a glance

Class
Second-Generation Tetracycline
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from light and moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for tick-borne diseases (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Rickettsia), meningoencephal
Dose
5–12.5 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Used for tick-borne diseases, upper respiratory infections (Mycoplasma, Chlamydo
Dose
5–12.5 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
—
Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from light and moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Vestibular signs (ataxia, head tilt)Hepatic enzymes with prolonged useClinical/culture response

Interactions

Moderate — 2

Sucralfate
moderate
Sucralfate (aluminum) chelates tetracyclines in the GI tract, reducing minocycline absorption. However, minocycline is less affected than other tetracyclines due to high lipophilicity.
Management: Separate by 2 hours if possible. Minocycline absorption is less affected by food/antacids than other tetracyclines, but sucralfate still reduces it.
Phenobarbital
moderate
Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzymes, potentially increasing minocycline metabolism (minocycline is more hepatically metabolized than doxycycline).
Management: Monitor clinical response. May need higher minocycline dose.

Brands

Other markets

Minocin
Dynacin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Minocycline?
Minocycline is a second-generation tetracycline used in pets. Binds 30S ribosomal subunit inhibiting protein synthesis. Most lipophilic tetracycline — excellent CNS and tissue penetration. Active against many doxycycline-resistant organisms. Also has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties independent of antimicrobial activity.
›What is Minocycline used for in pets?
Minocycline is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for tick-borne diseases (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Rickettsia), meningoencephal; Used for tick-borne diseases, upper respiratory infections (Mycoplasma, Chlamydo.
›What is the Minocycline dose for dogs?
For dogs, Minocycline is typically dosed as follows — Used for tick-borne diseases (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Rickettsia), meningoencephal: 5–12.5 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Minocycline dose for cats?
For cats, Minocycline is typically dosed as follows — Used for tick-borne diseases, upper respiratory infections (Mycoplasma, Chlamydo: 5–12.5 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Minocycline need a prescription?
Yes. Minocycline 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 →