Information on Clavamox for Cats

The prescription veterinary medication Clavamox contains a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate. The drug is available both as an oral liquid or a tablet, which veterinarians prescribe for the treatment of bacterial infections in cats.

  1. Function

    • The amoxicillin in Clavamox works by preventing bacterial cells from producing energy, but some types of bacteria possess special chemicals that cause amoxicillin to break down. Clavulanate neutralizes these chemicals, allowing amoxicillin to remain effective against the bacteria cells.

    Types of Infections

    • Veterinarian prescribe Clavamox for skin and soft tissue infections in cats caused by staph, strep, E. coli and pasteurella as well as for urinary tract infections caused by E. coli, reports Pfizer Animal Health, the makers of Clavamox.

    Time Frame

    • The typical dosage of Clavamox for cats is 6.25mg of the medication for each pound a cat weighs taken twice per day, explains Pfizer Animal Health. Skin infections usually requires five to seven days of treatment, while urinary tract infections typically need 10 to 14 days of the medications.

    Risks

    • The most common side effect in cats of Clavamox is diarrhea, loose stools and vomiting, explains PetPlace.com. Some cats develop severe allergic reactions to the medication.

    Considerations

    • Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, veterinarians typically avoid prescribing Clavamox for use in pregnant cats. If your cat has ever had an allergic reaction to amoxicillin or penicillin, it may not be safe for it to take Clavamox.