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
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
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.
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
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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