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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

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

Frequency

q8h

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, 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

Educational reference only

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.

Educational reference only

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.

Educational reference only

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