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Tetracycline

Prescription
First-Generation Tetracycline
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
3 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Binds 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting aminoacyl-tRNA binding and blocking protein synthesis. Bacteriostatic. Broad-spectrum but largely replaced by doxycycline (better absorption, q12h dosing). Still used specifically for some conditions.

At a glance

Class
First-Generation Tetracycline
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light; EXPIRED tetracycline is nephrotoxic (Fanconi syndrome) — discard expired product

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used specifically for immune-mediated skin disease (tetracycline + niacinamide p
Dose
15–25 mg/kg
Route
PO, IV
Frequency
q8h (PO)
🐈

Cat

Used for Chlamydophila, Mycoplasma, and hemotropic mycoplasma
Dose
15–20 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light; EXPIRED tetracycline is nephrotoxic (Fanconi syndrome) — discard expired product

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical responseEsophageal health (cats — always give with water)Renal function with prolonged use

Interactions

Moderate — 3

Sucralfate
moderate
Aluminum in sucralfate chelates tetracycline, reducing absorption by 50-80%.
Management: Separate by at least 2 hours. Give tetracycline 2h before sucralfate.
Calcium Gluconate
moderate
Calcium chelates tetracycline forming insoluble complexes. Reduces absorption significantly.
Management: Separate by 2-3 hours.
Ferrous Sulfate
moderate
Iron chelates tetracycline in the GI tract, reducing absorption of both drugs.
Management: Separate by 2-3 hours.

Brands

Other markets

Achromycin
Sumycin

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Tetracycline?
Tetracycline is a first-generation tetracycline used in pets. Binds 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting aminoacyl-tRNA binding and blocking protein synthesis. Bacteriostatic. Broad-spectrum but largely replaced by doxycycline (better absorption, q12h dosing). Still used specifically for some conditions.
›What is Tetracycline used for in pets?
Tetracycline is used in veterinary medicine for: Used specifically for immune-mediated skin disease (tetracycline + niacinamide p; Used for Chlamydophila, Mycoplasma, and hemotropic mycoplasma.
›What is the Tetracycline dose for dogs?
For dogs, Tetracycline is typically dosed as follows — Used specifically for immune-mediated skin disease (tetracycline + niacinamide p: 15–25 mg/kg PO/IV q8h (PO). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Tetracycline dose for cats?
For cats, Tetracycline is typically dosed as follows — Used for Chlamydophila, Mycoplasma, and hemotropic mycoplasma: 15–20 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Tetracycline need a prescription?
Yes. Tetracycline is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

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. Find a vet near you →