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Oseltamivir

Prescription
Neuraminidase Inhibitor / Antiviral
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Prodrug hydrolyzed to oseltamivir carboxylate, which competitively inhibits influenza neuraminidase, preventing release of newly formed viral particles from infected cells. In veterinary medicine, used off-label for parvovirus (reduces bacterial translocation, not antiviral).

At a glance

Class
Neuraminidase Inhibitor / Antiviral
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; suspension stable 17 days at room temperature or 10 weeks refrigerated

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Off-label for canine parvovirus — proposed mechanism is reducing bacterial trans
Dose
2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Off-label for feline panleukopenia (parvovirus)
Dose
2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
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 →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; suspension stable 17 days at room temperature or 10 weeks refrigerated

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical improvement (vomiting, diarrhea, WBC recovery)GI toleranceRenal function
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.

Brands

Other markets

Tamiflu

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Oseltamivir?
Oseltamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor / antiviral used in pets. Prodrug hydrolyzed to oseltamivir carboxylate, which competitively inhibits influenza neuraminidase, preventing release of newly formed viral particles from infected cells. In veterinary medicine, used off-label for parvovirus (reduces bacterial translocation, not antiviral).
What is Oseltamivir used for in pets?
Oseltamivir is used in veterinary medicine for: Off-label for canine parvovirus — proposed mechanism is reducing bacterial trans; Off-label for feline panleukopenia (parvovirus).
What is the Oseltamivir dose for dogs?
For dogs, Oseltamivir is typically dosed as follows — Off-label for canine parvovirus — proposed mechanism is reducing bacterial trans: 2 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Oseltamivir dose for cats?
For cats, Oseltamivir is typically dosed as follows — Off-label for feline panleukopenia (parvovirus): 2 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Oseltamivir need a prescription?
Yes. Oseltamivir 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
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