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Mupirocin

Prescription
Topical Antibacterial
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, preventing protein synthesis. Highly effective against staphylococci and streptococci. Used topically for skin and nasal infections.

At a glance

Class
Topical Antibacterial
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Do not use on large wounds or broken skin due to polyethylene glycol vehicle abs
Dose
Route
Topical
Frequency
q8–12h
🐈

Cat

Cats groom themselves; use Elizabethan collar to prevent ingestion of polyethyle
Dose
Route
Topical
Frequency
q8–12h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical response at 5–7 daysSigns of contact sensitivity

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Bactroban
Muricin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Mupirocin?
Mupirocin is a topical antibacterial used in pets. Inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, preventing protein synthesis. Highly effective against staphylococci and streptococci. Used topically for skin and nasal infections.
What is Mupirocin used for in pets?
Mupirocin is used in veterinary medicine for: Do not use on large wounds or broken skin due to polyethylene glycol vehicle abs; Cats groom themselves; use Elizabethan collar to prevent ingestion of polyethyle.
What is the Mupirocin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Mupirocin is typically dosed as follows — Do not use on large wounds or broken skin due to polyethylene glycol vehicle abs: undefined undefined Topical q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Mupirocin dose for cats?
For cats, Mupirocin is typically dosed as follows — Cats groom themselves; use Elizabethan collar to prevent ingestion of polyethyle: undefined undefined Topical q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Mupirocin need a prescription?
Yes. Mupirocin 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 →