A simple thing like a bacterial infection in your dog can be life-threatening and extremely uncomfortable. What can seem like a simple cut or a common cold may become infected with a variety of bacteria that require a specific class of antibacterial medication called cephalosporins. Cefprozil is a brand name of one of the drugs in this family of antibiotics called cephalexin.
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What Is Cephalosporin?
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Cephalosporin is a class of antibiotics that fight a variety of bacterial infections in dogs. This kind of antibiotic is effective at treating infections in the skin, upper respiratory system, bones, joints and the urinary tract in dogs. Cefprozil is one such drug in this class. Cephalosporin works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria thus allowing the wound to heal.
Causes of Bacterial Infections in Dogs
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The most common bacterial infection treated with cephalosporin antibiotics like Cefprozil is the Staphylococcus (Staph) infection. When your pet gets a cut or wound, Staph bacteria reproduce at a high rate and cause infection and irritation, not allowing the wound to heal. Staph is normally present in your dog on the skin and in the lungs, but doesn't usually cause any problems until there is wound or injury. Once there is an injury of some kind, the bacteria can grow causing irritation, pustules and pain.
Symptoms of a Bacterial Infection
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The most obvious symptom of infection is a skin abscess, a lesion or pustule at the location of a wound. Pain, itching, and crusted or irritated skin can also indicate a skin infection. A serious skin infection will lead to dried discharge and loss of hair at the site. Respiratory infections are evident by irritation around the eyes and a persistent cough. Your dog may also experience fever, lethargy and a lack of appetite. Your veterinarian may prescribe Cefprozil or a similar drug for this infection.
Side Effects of Cefprozil in Dogs
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Some dogs may have allergic reaction to this strain of antibiotic or experience side effects. Common side effects for Cefprozil and similar antibiotics are vomiting, diarrhea and nausea. Food and water should be plentiful for your dog when taking this medicine. Other rarer side effects include drooling, excitability and rapid breathing.
Allergic reactions can occur that are indicated by shortness of breath, hives, swelling and rash, which could indicate an allergy. If your dog is allergic to penicillin, Cefprozil should not be prescribed.
Symptoms of Overdose
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Owners should always get pet medication from a licensed veterinarian. Giving a dog medication intended for humans or not following the directions for administration can lead to overdose which may be lethal to your pet. The symptoms your dog may demonstrate if too much Cefprozil has been given include: seizures, vomiting, muscle spasms, excessive diarrhea, abdominal pain and/or muscle weakness. Contact your veterinarian immediately if any of these symptoms occur in your pet. Cefprozil and its class of cephalosporins are not recommended for pregnant or nursing animals.
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