Side Effects of Baytril Enrofloxacin

Baytril is the brand name for the antibiotic enrofloxacin and is approved by the FDA for use in animals only. Enrofloxacin is classified as a fluoroquinolone antibiotic and is commonly prescribed for a wide array of bacterial infections in dogs, including open wound, respiratory, urinary tract and skin infections. Enrofloxacin kills bacteria by hindering the production of the bacteria&'s DNA, according to PetPlace.com. As with all medication, enrofloxacin does have some side effects.

  1. Allergies

    • Allergies to the antibiotic are a cause for concern and a common side effect of Baytril. Signs of an allergic reaction include, "facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma," according to Doctors Foster and Smith Pharmacy. Dogs exhibiting any of these symptoms should be taken to the vet immediately.

    Behavioral Changes

    • Dogs with pre-existing central nervous system disorders (such as epilepsy) may suffer increased seizure activity when taking enrofloxacin; as such, enrofloxacin is not recommended for these animals. Rare behavioral changes such as anxiety, depression, dizziness and hallucinations have also been reported.

    Digestive Issues

    • Baytril might cause appetite loss, diarrhea and vomiting. This may be directly related to an allergy to the medication or a separate side effect of the antibiotic itself. Doctors Foster and Smith recommend having plenty of drinking available to a dog taking Baytril to ensure it does not become dehydrated, a condition exacerbated by vomiting and diarrhea.

    Drug Interactions

    • Dogs taking antacids or other forms of stomach protectors or iron should not take enrofloxacin, warns PetPlace.com. Enrofloxacin may interact negatively with these types of medications and should only be combined under the supervision of the dog&'s veterinarian.

    Joint Damage

    • Young dogs ranging in age from 4 to 28 weeks should not be given Baytril due to potential joint cartilage damage. Puppies taking Baytril may develop swelling in their joints and become lame, according to PetPlace.com. Only in rare cases, and under strict veterinary supervision, should a puppy be given Baytril.