Clavamox for Kennel Cough in Dogs

Clavamox is an antibiotic commonly used to treat kennel cough in dogs. It contains amoxicillin and clavulanate, a combination that helps fight off the bacteria that cause the infection.

Clavamox is usually prescribed by a veterinarian after a diagnosis of kennel cough, which is typically caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. The antibiotic is typically given orally, often in the form of a tablet or liquid suspension.

The duration of treatment with Clavamox for kennel cough can vary, but it's typically around 7-10 days. It's essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your veterinarian to ensure the infection is fully cleared.

Consider reading: Difference between Kennel Cough and Upper Respiratory Infection

Clavamox is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that contains two main ingredients: amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. Amoxicillin is a semisynthetic antibiotic that has a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms.

Amoxicillin is chemically known as D(-)-a-amino-p-hydroxybenzyl penicillin trihydrate, and it doesn't resist destruction by beta-lactamases, so it's not effective against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria.

When administering Clavamox, observe your dog closely for any signs of an allergic reaction or adverse side effects, especially if this is the first time your dog has taken antibiotics.

It's crucial to talk to your vet about the best way to administer the drug and about any possible medication interactions. If your veterinarian prescribes oral suspension drops, remember to refrigerate them, as they'll go bad very quickly if left out.

If your dog's condition doesn't seem to respond to the drug, call your vet for guidance. Don't hesitate to seek veterinary advice if you have concerns about giving your dog antibiotics or suspect your dog is having an adverse reaction.

Suggestion: What Antibiotic for Kennel Cough

Store Clavamox in a safe place out of reach of animals and small children.

You can store tablets in a cupboard, but be sure to keep them away from dampness and extreme temperatures. Liquid medications, on the other hand, may need to be refrigerated.

Don't keep leftover medication, as your vet will try to prescribe the exact amount needed for the course. This helps prevent antibiotic resistance.

If you do end up with some spare medication, check with your vet to ensure you've been dosing accurately.

Clavamox is generally a safe drug, but it's crucial to observe your dog closely for any signs of an allergic reaction or adverse side effects, especially if this is the first time your dog has taken antibiotics.

To ensure safe administration, talk to your vet about the best way to give the drug and any possible medication interactions.

Refrigerate the oral suspension drops, as they'll go bad quickly if left out.

If your dog's condition doesn't seem to respond to the drug, call your vet for advice.

Always inform your vet about any other medication your dog is taking, including vitamin supplements, as Clavamox can interfere with certain other drugs.

Don't give Clavamox to dogs who are allergic to penicillins or similar drugs.

Seek emergency veterinary care or animal poison control if your dog gets too high of a dose, as vomiting is a common symptom of a Clavamox overdose that can lead to nervous system or liver damage.

On a similar theme: Can I Give My Dog Robitussin for Kennel Cough

Clavamox is generally well-tolerated in dogs, but some common side effects include an upset stomach, including vomiting or diarrhea.

Dogs with a history of allergies to penicillin shouldn't take Clavamox, as they may have an allergic reaction. Discontinue giving your dog Clavamox and call your vet immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction in dogs include swelling, rash, difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, fever, vomiting, and seizures.

Other side effects to watch out for include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, change in appetite, and change in heart or respiratory rate.

If you're allergic to penicillin, be cautious while handling Clavamox and inform your vet about any allergies before giving the medication.

Here are some potential side effects of Clavamox in dogs:

It's essential to talk to your vet about possible adverse reactions before administering Clavamox for your dog's kennel cough.

Clavamox is a generally safe drug, but it's essential to observe your dog closely for signs of an allergic reaction or adverse side effects, especially if this is the first time your dog has taken antibiotics.

You should only give your dog Clavamox under the guidelines of your veterinarian, as they will determine the right dosage based on your dog's weight, tolerance, medical history, breed, and other relevant factors.

Talk to your vet about the best way to administer the drug and about any possible medication interactions. If your veterinarian prescribes oral suspension drops, remember to refrigerate them, as they'll go bad very quickly if left out.

If your dog won't take the pills by themselves, try hiding the tablets in a small amount of food to entice them to take them. Your veterinarian can help guide you on how to administer the tablets.

Clavamox is available in liquid form, which is easy to give using a syringe or pipette either into a little food or milk or straight into your puppy's mouth. This form is licensed for use in puppies, who are much harder to give tablets to.

The best way to get answers to questions regarding your pet's medications is to talk to your prescribing veterinarian. If you have concerns about giving your dog antibiotics or suspect your dog is having an adverse reaction, seek veterinary advice.

It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your vet to ensure your dog's infection is fully cleared and to prevent the infection from becoming resistant.