Polyene antifungal that binds to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, altering membrane permeability and causing cell death. The only FDA-approved ophthalmic antifungal.
At a glance
Class
Antifungal (Ophthalmic)
Storage
Store at 2–24°C; do not freeze; discard 28 days after opening
Dosing
Used for fungal keratitis and blepharitis
Frequency
q1–8h depending on phase
Fungal keratitis is uncommon in cats but occurs with trauma
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 →Safety
Slit-lamp evaluation of corneal lesionCulture resultsIntraocular pressure
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.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Natamycin (Ophthalmic)?
Natamycin (Ophthalmic) is a antifungal (ophthalmic) used in pets. Polyene antifungal that binds to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, altering membrane permeability and causing cell death. The only FDA-approved ophthalmic antifungal.
›What is Natamycin (Ophthalmic) used for in pets?
Natamycin (Ophthalmic) is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for fungal keratitis and blepharitis; Fungal keratitis is uncommon in cats but occurs with trauma.
›What is the Natamycin (Ophthalmic) dose for dogs?
For dogs, Natamycin (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Used for fungal keratitis and blepharitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q1–8h depending on phase. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Natamycin (Ophthalmic) dose for cats?
For cats, Natamycin (Ophthalmic) is typically dosed as follows — Fungal keratitis is uncommon in cats but occurs with trauma: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q6–8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Natamycin (Ophthalmic) need a prescription?
Yes. Natamycin (Ophthalmic) is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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