Nitroimidazole that disrupts DNA of anaerobic organisms and protozoa after intracellular reduction. Active against Giardia, Trichomonas, Entamoeba, and anaerobic bacteria.
At a glance
Class
Nitroimidazole Antiprotozoal / Antibacterial
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Used for giardiasis, anaerobic infections, and amoebic dysentery
Alternative to metronidazole in cats; monitor for neurological side effects
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
Neurological statusLiver enzymes with prolonged use
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 Ornidazole?
Ornidazole is a nitroimidazole antiprotozoal / antibacterial used in pets. Nitroimidazole that disrupts DNA of anaerobic organisms and protozoa after intracellular reduction. Active against Giardia, Trichomonas, Entamoeba, and anaerobic bacteria.
›What is Ornidazole used for in pets?
Ornidazole is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for giardiasis, anaerobic infections, and amoebic dysentery; Alternative to metronidazole in cats; monitor for neurological side effects.
›What is the Ornidazole dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ornidazole is typically dosed as follows — Used for giardiasis, anaerobic infections, and amoebic dysentery: 30 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ornidazole dose for cats?
For cats, Ornidazole is typically dosed as follows — Alternative to metronidazole in cats; monitor for neurological side effects: 30 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Ornidazole need a prescription?
Yes. Ornidazole 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