Antibiotics - Factsheet

Synolox® Baytril® Marbocyl® Rilexine® Delvoprim® and others

What are they used for?

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, or to prevent infections from developing in the first place.

There are a large number of antibiotics available. We select the most suitable either by using one with a broad range of activity again the likely bacteria, or after laboratory testing to find the most efficient one.

Antibiotics do not help with viral infections. However they may be used to prevent secondary bacterial infections if the patient is debilitated since the animals own ability to defend itself will be impaired.

Why should I finish the course?

90% of bacteria will be killed by the first one or two doses of antibiotic and your pet will probably feel back to normal. However there will still be some resistant bacteria lurking inside who can survive short periods of antibiotic and it is these that we must kill. They will be genetically resistant, and if we don't catch them at this stage they will start to multiply, creating a 'super-breed' which will be resistant to treatment. These may cause a relapse, but, more importantly, the antibiotic won't work the next time it is needed.

Therefore – always finish the course!

What are the side-effects?

Most antibiotics do a lot of good without harming the pet at all. However all drugs have the potential to cause side-effects and you need to be aware of these.

Diarrhoea: The most common problem, but easy to sort.
Itchy skin: Very rare. Stop the tablets and contact the practice when we are next open.
Breathing problems: Extremely rare. We see one case every 4-5 years if that. Stop the tablets and contact the practice or emergency hospital immediately.

Handling Antibiotics

Always wash your hands after touching antibiotics, and avoid prolonged contact.

If you have an allergy to an antibiotic do not touch the tablets at all. Tell the veterinary surgeon and an alternative will be given.