What is Azithromycin used for in dogs?
Azithromycin can be used to treat infections caused by any azithromycin-sensitive bacteria in dogs. Examples include "staph" infections (staphylococcus), "streptococcus" infections (streptococcus), and Bordetella, which is a common respiratory infection in dogs and cats. There are other types of azithromycin-sensitive bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, Mycoplasma or Borrelia (Lyme disease).
These azithromycin-sensitive bacteria can cause canine nasal, sinus, and throat infections (upper respiratory infections), lung infections ( pneumonia and bronchitis ), skin infections, bloodstream infections, digestive infections, abdominal infections, and urinary and reproductive tract infections. Azithromycin can be used to treat any of these infections.
Is Azithromycin safe for dogs?
Veterinarians consider azithromycin to be safe for dogs.
Azithromycin is not safe for use in dogs that are allergic to azithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics. Veterinarians may be reluctant to use the drug in dogs with liver disease because dogs are more likely to experience potential side effects.
Azithromycin Side Effects in Dogs
The most common side effects of azithromycin in dogs are:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
