Reduced by bacterial flavoproteins to reactive intermediates that damage DNA, ribosomes, and other macromolecules; concentrated in urine making it effective for lower UTIs
At a glance
Class
Nitrofuran antibiotic
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light
Dosing
Lower urinary tract infection
Max dose
200 mg/dose; 600 mg/day
Duration: 7–14 days
Lower urinary tract infection
Max dose
50 mg/dose; 150 mg/day
Duration: 7–14 days
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Hepatic disease
Risk of hepatotoxicity
Adverse effects
Serious
Pulmonary fibrosis (chronic use)
Hepatotoxicity
Peripheral neuropathy
UrinalysisUrine cultureHepatic enzymes with prolonged use
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Furadantin
Procter & Gamble
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Nitrofurantoin?
Nitrofurantoin is a nitrofuran antibiotic used in pets. Reduced by bacterial flavoproteins to reactive intermediates that damage DNA, ribosomes, and other macromolecules; concentrated in urine making it effective for lower UTIs
›What is Nitrofurantoin used for in pets?
Nitrofurantoin is used in veterinary medicine for: Lower urinary tract infection.
›What is the Nitrofurantoin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Nitrofurantoin is typically dosed as follows — Lower urinary tract infection: 4–5 mg/kg PO TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Nitrofurantoin dose for cats?
For cats, Nitrofurantoin is typically dosed as follows — Lower urinary tract infection: 4–5 mg/kg PO TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Nitrofurantoin?
Common: Nausea, Vomiting, Anorexia. Serious (call your vet immediately): Pulmonary fibrosis (chronic use), Hepatotoxicity, Peripheral neuropathy.
›Does Nitrofurantoin need a prescription?
Yes. Nitrofurantoin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Nitrofurantoin not be used?
Do not use Nitrofurantoin if: Renal insufficiency (GFR < 30); Neonates.
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.
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