Topical Antibiotics for Cats

Cats are curious creatures, so it should be no surprise to an owner when a cat comes in with a new cut, scrape or scuff. Small superficial injuries such as these generally do not require a trip to the veterinarian unless they become badly infected. Several topical antibiotics exist that are safe for use on cats to prevent such infections from occurring. However, some of these antibiotics require a prescription from the veterinarian.

  1. Neomycin

    • Neomycin comes in both prescription and non-prescription topical antibiotics. It is one of the more popular antibiotics that is safe for both humans and cats. Neomycin is the active ingredient in the Neosporin brand and is also part of triple antibiotic ointments, both of which are safe for feline use. However, owners should prevent their cats from licking the medication, as it may cause gastrointestinal upset. Consider either washing the medication off after a few minutes, or purchasing an E-collar to prevent the cat from licking at the ointment.

    Penicillin G

    • Penicillin G is another well-known antibiotic available in a topical form for felines. However, it is only available by a veterinarian's prescription, and some types of bacteria have developed a resistance to this particular antibiotic.

    Thiostrepton

    • Thiostrepton is safe for use in cats and is often found in combination with other antibiotics used in topical products. According to Novartis Animal Health, thiostrepton is useful against a wide variety of both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. It can also be combined with anti-fungal medications, such as nystatin, to work against yeast and other fungi, which may occur alongside bacterial infections.

    Gentamicin

    • Gentamicin, also a prescription-only antibiotic, works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, which in turn kills them off because they are unable to mature and reproduce. Like many other antibiotics, it is effective against a variety of bacteria, including those that infect the skin and ear canal.

    Polymyxin B

    • Polymyxin B can be combined with other antibiotics, such as neomycin, to kill off bacteria. It is especially common in ophthalmic topical solutions. It is also common in over-the-counter triple antibiotic creams and ointments.

    Bacitracin

    • Bacitracin is one more topical antibiotic that is safe for use in felines. It is also another of the antibiotics commonly found in cat-safe triple antibiotic creams and ointments.