To many, cats are more than pets; they are part of the family. Just as human family members, when our feline family members are sick, we want to help them get better as soon as possible. We do this by taking our cats to the veterinarian and, where recommended, giving them medicine, including antibiotics. Your pet may experience side effects from antibiotics such as swelling, hair loss, itching, sleepiness and a general change in nature.
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Amoxicillin
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Cats suffering from ear infections, urinary tract infections and other bacterial issues may be prescribed Amoxicillin, which is available in pill form and liquid, which will be easier for most cat owners. Minimal side effects include nausea, yeast infections and vomiting. More serious side effects of the drug include a swollen tongue, lips or face; bloody stools; hives; fainting; rash; and seizures. Pet owners should be cautious when using Amoxicillin with an animal who has intestinal, kidney or stomach disease, as the drug may cause interactions with other medicines.
Azithromycin
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Azithromycin may be prescribed for cats suffering from the following illnesses: herpes, gum disease, chronic upper respiratory issues, chlamydia and severe ear infections. There are some severe side effects: cardiac arrthymia, abdominal pain, vomiting and impaired liver function. Keep an eye on your pet to track how the medication is affecting the liver. Jaundice may appear and color the cat's eyes, skin and gums yellow. Cats who already suffer from liver or kidney disease should not take Azithromycin.
Gentamicin
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Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside, an injectable used to treat susceptible bacterial infections. Hospitals and veterinarians will give the pet one injection every eight hours and adjust as the pet responds to the treatment. Side effects of Gentamicin include hearing loss, kidney damage or balancing problems. The cat may also experience pain at the injection site and allergic reactions. This medication has multiple counter-indications and is not for use in the following: pregnant or nursing cats, cats with kidney disease or neuromusculatory disorders, or cats taking diuretics.
Tetracycline
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Tetracycline is used in cats suffering from ehrlichiosis and bacterial infections. It comes in pill and liquid form and is advised to be given to your pet on an empty stomach, though it may be given with food if side effects become too severe. When using this drug, cats may experience loss of appetite and hair, fever and photosensitivity, blisters on the skin when exposed to the sun. Keep your pet inside when it is taking this medicine. Young kittens taking Tetracycline may get stains on their teeth. Pregnant cats may not take Tetracycline in the first half of their pregnancy.
Erythromycin
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Erythromycin is used to treat cats suffering from skin and prostate infections and diarrhea. It exists in pill, injectable and liquid form. Mild side effects include vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Although food decreases Erythromycin's absorption, provide your cat a small amount of food when delivering the medicine to counteract the side effects. This medicine may not be used with pregnant or nursing cats or those with liver disease. It also has major interactions with other drugs, so consult your doctor before beginning use.
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