Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA; bacteriostatic at therapeutic doses
At a glance
Class
Tetracycline antibiotic
Storage
Below 25°C, protect from light and moisture
Dosing
Susceptible bacterial infections, ehrlichiosis, leptospirosis
Max dose
500 mg/dose; 1500 mg/day
Duration: 7–21 days
Susceptible bacterial infections, Mycoplasma
Max dose
250 mg/dose; 750 mg/day
Duration: 7–14 days
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
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
GI upset
Photosensitivity
Tooth discoloration in young animals
Serious
Hepatotoxicity
Esophageal stricture (cats)
Superinfection
Hepatic functionRenal functionSigns of photosensitivity
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 Oxytetracycline?
Oxytetracycline is a tetracycline antibiotic used in pets. Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA; bacteriostatic at therapeutic doses
›What is Oxytetracycline used for in pets?
Oxytetracycline is used in veterinary medicine for: Susceptible bacterial infections, ehrlichiosis, leptospirosis; Susceptible bacterial infections, Mycoplasma.
›What is the Oxytetracycline dose for dogs?
For dogs, Oxytetracycline is typically dosed as follows — Susceptible bacterial infections, ehrlichiosis, leptospirosis: 7.5–20 mg/kg PO/IM/IV BID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Oxytetracycline dose for cats?
For cats, Oxytetracycline is typically dosed as follows — Susceptible bacterial infections, Mycoplasma: 7.5–20 mg/kg PO/IM BID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Oxytetracycline?
Common: GI upset, Photosensitivity, Tooth discoloration in young animals. Serious (call your vet immediately): Hepatotoxicity, Esophageal stricture (cats), Superinfection.
›Does Oxytetracycline need a prescription?
Yes. Oxytetracycline is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Oxytetracycline not be used?
Do not use Oxytetracycline if: Hypersensitivity to tetracyclines.
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
CDSCO approvals (India) — 2
Oxytetracycline long acting injectable
M/s Pfizer Pvt Ltd Bombay · Approved 1990- May
In the treatment of anaplasmosis and their annulata
Intra uterine infusion Oxytetracycline HCL- 500mg + Furazoilidone 500 mg + clioq
M/s Cadila Veterinary · Approved 05.07.1993
Intrauterine infusion for veterinary
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
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