What Is Cefquinome?
Cefquinome is a fourth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic developed exclusively for veterinary use. It is formulated as cefquinome sulfate for injection and is active against a broad range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including many strains associated with respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in food-producing animals. Like all cephalosporins, it works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis. Cefquinome is a prescription veterinary medicine and must be administered only under veterinary supervision.
Uses in Livestock
In pigs, cefquinome is used to treat respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases and mastitis, including infections caused by E. coli. In cattle, it is primarily used to treat respiratory disease. The veterinarian selects the dose and duration of treatment based on diagnostic test results, the extent of the infection, and the animal's body weight. Off-label use, incorrect dosing, and repeated use of the same antibiotic class can promote antimicrobial resistance, so treatment decisions should always follow veterinary advice and local rules.
Withdrawal Periods by Species
Withdrawal periods state how long after the last treatment meat, milk, or other edible tissues must be kept out of the food chain to ensure residues are below the permitted limit.
Cattle: meat 4 days; milk 60 hours
Sheep: meat 4 days; milk 60 hours
Pigs: meat 3 days
Horses: meat 8 days
These figures are the withdrawal times commonly stated for injectable cefquinome products. Exact values depend on the specific authorized product, the dose used, and national regulations, so always confirm with the product label and the responsible veterinarian.
Why Withdrawal Periods Matter
Withdrawal periods protect consumers from antibiotic residues in food. They also help prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance, which is one of the most important concerns in both veterinary and human medicine. Producers who market animals or milk before the withdrawal period ends risk regulatory penalties, rejection of the batch, and loss of buyer trust. Keeping accurate treatment records is therefore part of responsible farm management.
Precautions for Veterinary Use
Use with caution in animals with known sensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.
Use only when necessary and under veterinary guidance, considering risks to offspring and milk quality.
Calculate the dose from the animal's exact body weight; overdosing or underdosing can cause adverse effects or treatment failure.
Store the product in a cool, dry place away from light and out of reach of children and animals.
Observe the label withdrawal period for meat and milk and keep treatment records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the withdrawal period for cefquinome in cattle? For injectable cefquinome products, the commonly stated withdrawal period is 4 days for meat and 60 hours for milk.
What is the withdrawal period for cefquinome in pigs? The commonly stated withdrawal period is 3 days for meat.
What is the withdrawal period for cefquinome in sheep? The commonly stated withdrawal period is 4 days for meat and 60 hours for milk.
What is the withdrawal period for cefquinome in horses? The commonly stated withdrawal period is 8 days for meat.
Why do withdrawal periods matter? They keep antibiotic residues in meat and milk below permitted limits, protect consumers, and help slow antimicrobial resistance; producers who market animals or milk too early risk regulatory penalties and rejection of the batch.
Can cefquinome be used without a veterinarian? No. Cefquinome is a prescription veterinary medicine and must be administered only under veterinary supervision, with correct diagnosis, dosing and treatment records.