Clavamox for cats is a broad spectrum antibiotic which fights infections of the skin and soft tissue. The medicine contains amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium. It is a prescription medication, so your vet must decide if your cat needs Clavamox. There is potential for allergic reaction, but generally speaking it is a relatively safe medication.
Clavamox For Cats FAQs
Our readers often ask these questions about Clavamox for cats.
- What do you use Clavamox for?
- How much Clavamox do you give a cat?
- How long should I give my cat Clavamox?
What Is Clavamox For Cats?
This medication is an antibiotic in the penicillin family. Clavamox is a brand name for a drug that has, as its main active ingredients, amoxicillin and clavulanic acid.
Amoxicillin fights bacteria by restricting their ability to form cell walls. This limits their growth.
Clavulanic acid inhibits enzymes produced by the bacteria that could neutralize amoxicillin. It only has weak antibacterial activity on its own, but helps the amoxicillin to work.
Clavamox was developed specifically for dogs and cats. It is similar, but not identical, to some medications developed for humans.
The Development Of Clavamox
The amoxicillin/clavulanic acid combination was first created by British scientists working for a company that’s now part of GlaxoSmithKline.
Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. This list contains medicines deemed effective and safe for meeting the most vital needs of a health system.
Research And FDA Approval
The FDA has approved Clavamox for use in cats.
While the use of amoxicillin trihydrate/clavulanate potassium has been better studied in humans, research has also tested its effectiveness in cats.
Clavamox significantly reduces the size of feline skin lesions and reduces evidence of bacterial infection.
It is often the first choice for shelters treating animals with upper respiratory infections, which can arise in kennels and communal spaces for animals.
Antibiotics For Cats
Antibiotics can work in one of two ways. They either prevent the bacteria from reproducing, thus killing it off that way. Or the antibiotic is directly bactericidal, which means that it kills the bacteria.
Clavamox is the latter.
Antibiotics are typically used to treat skin infections or infections of the soft tissue, such as might result from a wound.
They can also be used against internal infections, such as UTIs.
What Is Clavamox Used For In Cats?
Clavamox treats a wide variety of bacterial infections. Clavamox for cats fights both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
Gram-negative bacteria have a structure that’s more resistant to medications because of an impenetrable cell wall.
It also works against both aerobic or anaerobic microorganisms. Aerobic microorganisms require oxygen to grow, while anaerobic ones do not.
Clavamox is not effective against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria. These types of bacteria are resistant to antibiotics in general.
Clavamox diffuses easily into the body’s tissues and fluids. It is effective against staphylococcus bacteria, streptococcus, E. coli, Pasteurella multocida and Pasteurella.
Clavamox For Infections In Cats
Vets may prescribe Clavamox for urinary tract infections, skin infections, respiratory tract infections, otitis media and interna (ear infections), and tooth and gum infections like gingivitis.
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It may also be prescribed for tuberculosis. During the course of your cat’s life, he may experience one of these conditions, requiring the use of Clavamox.
The antibiotic action of the medication kills off the bacteria that are causing the infection.
Many infections that are treated with Clavamox begin to go away within three days. However, follow your vet’s recommendation.
Clavamox For Bite Wounds In Cats
Clavamox treats bite wounds, as well. This is because wounds like this often fester and can become infected, necessitating an antibiotic.
Just as amoxicillin is often used for humans who have sustained bite wounds, Clavamox fights against wound infections in cats and dogs.
How To Give Clavamox Dosage For Cats
Clavamox is orally administered.
It is available in chewable or regular tablet form, with a coating to make it easier to swallow. Alternatively, you can get it as an oral suspension liquid, known as Clavamox Drops.
Either of the different forms makes it easy to add Clavamox to food, hide in a treat, or offer with a syringe.
Clavamox is similar to some medications used by humans. So a pet owner may think that they can give human amoxicillin, for instance, to their cat instead of visiting their vet for a prescription. However, this is not recommended!
Despite similarities in medications, Clavamox was developed specifically for cats and dogs. Human medications, meanwhile, were developed specifically for humans. Use of medication in an unintended way can not only inhibit the effectiveness of the medications, it can potentially be dangerous for your pet.
Where To Buy Clavamox For Cats
Clavamox is only available on the order of a licensed veterinarian, as dictated by federal law.
These days, you can find pretty much anything online. This includes pharmaceutical products that are only available with a prescription. It can be tempting, but it is also illegal and dangerous.
First, if you haven’t seen a vet, you don’t know exactly why your cat has certain symptoms. If you get Clavamox without seeing a vet, you’re taking a chance. If your self-diagnosis is incorrect, your cat will become more ill while you pursue the wrong treatment.
Secondly, there is another worry. Non-prescription Clavamox for cats may also not be legitimate. It could be mixed with something else. Alternatively, the actual dose might not match the packet.
Also, cats react differently to different medications, just like people do. However, your vet will have a better idea about what works for your cat and his condition, whatever it is.
Clavamox Dosage For Cats
The recommended Clavamox dosage for cats of average size, according to the manufacturer’s data sheet, is 62.5 milligrams twice a day. Clavamox doses can be adjusted for cats by weight, but only your vet can determine if that is necessary for a larger or smaller feline.
If you’re using Clavamox drops for cats, you’ll need to reconstitute it with water.
When 14 ml of water is added, each ml contains 62.5 mg of Clavamox. That is, 50 mg of amoxicillin and 12.5 mg of clavulanic acid.
Chewable tablets come in different sizes: 62.5 mg, 125 mg, 250 mg, and 375 mg.
It is important to note that the larger doses are for dogs and larger animals. For cats, you should use the 62.5 mg size per dose, whether liquid or tablet.
How Long Should I Give My Cat Clavamox?
Your vet will instruct you exactly how to use Clavamox. However, a typical treatment regime for skin and soft tissue infections involves administering Clavamox for 5-7 days, or for 48 hours after symptoms disappear.
In the case of urinary tract infections, your vet may advise you to continue use for 10-14 days.
Do not use Clavamox for more than 30 days. Stop using it immediately, however, if no results are seen after three days.
Please note, generic forms of Clavamox may not come in the same forms. Regular tablets may be your only option.
Clavamox For Cats Side Effects
All medications have potential side effects, and Clavamox is no different. While it is a relatively safe antibiotic, there is no guarantee that it will work for your cat.
Ultimately, your veterinarian is the best person to decide if your pet can handle Clavamox’s effects.
Some other drugs will interact with Clavamox, and therefore your vet can let you know if it’s safe to give Clavamox with any other medications, vitamins or supplements your cat is on.
Clavamox also has some contraindications. For example, if your cat is sensitive to penicillins or cephalosporin antibiotics, Clavamox may not work for her.
Your vet can best help decide what course of treatment is best for your cat. Your pet’s doctor will also know what to do in case anything goes wrong.
Potential Clavamox For Cats Side Effects
Cats can be allergic to Clavamox. Symptoms of allergies include:
- Shortness of breath
- Hives
- Swelling of the lips and tongue
- Rash
- Fainting
- Vomiting
- Nausea.
If your kitty suffers severe allergic reactions to Clavamox, contact your vet immediately. Your cat may need epinephrine and steroids to control the allergic reaction.
In addition, if you see any other changes in behavior that you suspect are the result of Clavamox for cats side effects, tell your vet.
Is Clavamox Safe For Cats?
Veterinarians prescribe Clavamox often for cats, and have done so for decades. It is a relatively safe medication, and one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics.
Apart from the potential for allergic reaction, the largest concern with Clavamox is before its use: correctly diagnosing the problem. It’s important that you see your vet before administering Clavamox to your cat.
Clavamox is proven effective in treating bacterial infections. However, these conditions must be diagnosed first. Your cat’s symptoms may have any number of causes, and only a vet can figure out what those are.
Additionally, a vet can take a culture of the bacteria and use Clavamox to make sure it will work on your pet’s specific condition.
A medical professional can also determine whether the standard Clavamox dosage for cats may need to be adjusted for your pet.
Clavamox For Cats Overdose
Pet owners should take care to give their pets medication at the right time, and to avoid doubling up on any medication, especially antibiotics.
If your cat misses a dosage, and it is almost time for the next dose, it’s better to give just one rather than try to make up for the lost dose by giving extra.
If you accidentally give your cat a double dose, or otherwise give her too much Clavamox or any other medication, contact your vet immediately. Keep an eye out for any potential bad reaction, such as change in behavior or difficult breathing.
Clavamox For Cats
Clavamox can be great for curing bacterial infections in cats. Used as prescribed, it is an effective feline antibiotic.
Does your cat have upper respiratory issues, UTIs, skin infections, or tooth and gum issues caused by bacteria? Clavamox may very well help bring your pet back to health.
Has your cat had Clavamox? We’d love to hear about your experiences with Clavamox for cats in the comments section below.
References and Further Reading
- Clavamox. FDA
- Management of bite wounds and infection in primary care. MD Edge
- Setting the story straight on human antibiotics in animals. International Food Information Council Foundation
- European Patent Office, US 4441609
- Harvey, C. E. et al (1995). Antimicrobial susceptibility of subgingival bacterial flora in cats with gingitivis. Journal of Veterinary Dentistry, 12(4)
- Spindel, M. E. et al (2013). A survey of North American shelter practices relating to feline upper respiratory management. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 15(4)
- Sturges et al (2006). Clinical signs, magnetic resonance imaging features, and outcome after surgical and medical treatment of orogenic intracranial infection in 11 cats and 4 dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 20
- Wildermuth, B. E. et al (2011). Response of feline eosinophilic plaques and lip ulcers to amoxicillin trihydrate-clavulanate potassium therapy: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled prospective study. Veterinary Dermatology, 23(2)
- Pfizer Animal Health (2012). Clavamox: Product Information
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I have a 15 year old 5 pound female cat who was diagnosed with bacterial bladder infection. Urine sample taken. No crystals present. Bladder is soft and feels normal. She was prescribed liquid clavamox 1 ml twice per day for 10 days. First dose given and 2 hours later, cat was vomiting and diarrhea. She stood up, stumbled and collapsed onto her side. I stopped the clavamox and called the vet. Vet called me the next day and said keep her off it. She didn’t offer anything else other than more testing. She cannot take the antibiotics, so I am left with no recourse.
Why should Clamavox be given with food? Is it not effective on an empty stomach?
The same reason you would have a cracker before taking medicine. It can be easier on your stomach if you have a little food there first.
Renee, how is your kitty?
Our 7 month old kitten went from high energy and active to lethargically sleeping and a fever. We were pretty worried so we took her to the Pet ER. They did blood tests and an X-ray, but could only find a fever of an undetermined origin. They rehydrated her and sent us home with Clovomax. After 2 days she was back to normal. It’s a mystery what was wrong some sort of bacterial infection I guess.
Our cat has occasional upper respiratory infections due to the Herpes virus. Treating it with Clavamox works wonders, but we are wondering if she is treated 3-4 times a year with it, will she be harmed in any way or develop an immunity at some point?
I have a one year old cat bitten on the top of his paw about 7 months ago. The small wound will not heal, and has some puss.
I have tried many things, the vet gave me liquid Clamoxin, but he immediately coughs it up and is sick.
I had a lab test done and it says that he has a staff infection.
Should I try Clavamex 62.5mg. tablets, as it would be easier to dose him with tablets.
My cat got bit by a stray cat that came in our yard, and i soaked his paw in warm water with ‘plain’ epsom salts, for about 10 min, several times a day then rinsed paw. 3 days later was all better. So maybe along with antibiotics, this will heal his paw. Is always best to keep wound open, so can drain bacteria.
They can get feline aids from cat bites, but most cats live for a long time, even if they have it. But then you have to keep cat away from other cats so wont bite and spread. And keep cat away from any infections cause infections are what can cut their life short.
Ask vet, but my dog has 2 staph bacteria in her elbow, and vet gave her sulfa antiobiotics , i think is combination antiobiotic, and is clearing infection. But besides doing smear, . She also cultured to see what antibiotive the bacteria was sensitive to, to make sure was correct one.
Clavamox is the ONLY antiobiotic that has worked to start clearing up my 18 year old cats infected paws. It has caused some diarrhea, so I’m starting her on forteflora probiotic, and getting subQ fluids . Shes eating good though. The vet gave her shot, which did not help. then some other pills, and antifungal/ bacterial shampoo to use daily, which did not ckear infection. I have been cleaning my poor cats pus filled, swollen, claws daily, and, they have been so tender and so much pus and blk. junk all over most frint, and a few back claws….after 6 days on the Clavamix, they are FINALLY healing, much kess pus, less swollen, etc. Obviously, would be best if no diarrhea, but the nails were NOT getting better on any other antibiotic or me cleaning claws and soaking daily!
I would recommend getting a good cat probiotic to start with the Clavamox on day 1 though, because is such a strong antiobiotic. Ive had to take it before and also have to take high dosage of probiotics, but clears up bad infections!
I adopted two 7 month old energetic kittens from animal care & control two weeks ago & did not keep them separated from my two old cats. within days, my 7yo cat started getting dry heaves & I took him to vet along with two kittens for observation. Temps were normal & cat was given antibiotic shot & seemed to do better. however, once I got home, one of kittens started sneezing and did so on cat’s communal dry food and water bowl, which the other cats consumed and now my 7yo cat has upper respiratory issues, including sneezing, water eyes, congestion. I have been giving him clavamox drops 1.0 ML twice a day for last 3 days and also bought a vaporizer. Keeping kittens and cats separated also. Cat still seems lethargic with same symptoms. how long should I continue to treat? I have read 5-7 days and 48 hours after symptoms subside.
Unfortunately my veterinarian does not prescribe the recommended duration of Clavamox for 10-14 days for UTI’s, even after showing them documentation. I was only given 7 days worth which is the recommendation for skin infections etc. The past 3 years my cat has had a UTI once a year and each time I had to go back for retesting. Her symptoms would get better after a few days, but after the medication is finished she starts to get them again. So then they give her an expensive shot convenia, which finally helped and the tests come back 0-2 WBC’s. Apparently that is normal my vet said. I believe it would of been cleared up if given the recommended duration 10-14 days. I have changed Veterinarians since. Please make sure your cat gets long enough duration so they don’t needlessly suffer and you spend excess money.
My cat (male 16 yrs old) had blood in his urine. So the vet put him on Clavamox. He took it for a week but it increasingly made him more and more nauseous. The vet told me to take him off. How long will his lack of appetite and vomiting last?
My cat will NOT take the chewable of this medication. I have crumbled it into his wet food and he refuses to eat it. Has a urinary track infection and just brought him home from vet today and will not take the first pill.
I was fostering a 4 week old kitten. Her breathing seemed very fast to me so I took her to the vet and she was prescribed clavamox .15 ml twice a day. She ended up passing away and I feel it could have been the medicine. She had no vomiting or diarrhea. Is this possible…I’m heart broken. I thought I was helping her. Is it possible the clavamox killed her?
Bronwyn, I can certainly relate to your heartache and your worry that the Clavamox was responsible for the death of your kitten. However, I sincerely doubt that the Clavamox played any part in your kitten’s passing.
First of all, Clavamox has been in use for treating bacterial infections of all kinds in cats for decades. It is often the go-to antibiotic of choice of Veterinarians because of it’s broad-spectrum properties and because it has proven to be one of the safest available medications of it’s kind. Your Vet would not have prescribed Clavamox if he or she did not believe it to be the best and safest treatment for your kitten’s condition, and the dosage that was prescribed was less than 25% of the standard dosage for an average-sized adult cat, making overdose extremely unlikely.
Even in an overdose situation or an allergic/adverse reaction to the medication, you would have seen some sort of obvious symptom that something was wrong (like vomiting or diarrhea), and you saw no symptoms at all.
The sad truth is that sometimes, very young kittens, especially when they are born with or develop an illness or infection soon after birth, just don’t make it. They just aren’t strong enough. Your kitten was only 4 weeks old, and ideally should still have been with it’s mother, or at least under constant care by a Veterinary professional until 6 weeks old before being fostered or adopted, which unfortunately is not always possible.
I know how much it hurts to lose a kitten this way, but try to take some comfort in knowing that you did all that anyone could have done. The kitten was most likely. just beyond saving by the time you came into it’s life — but however short the time was that he or she was in your care, he or she was loved and knew it.
After four days on liquid Clavamox, my cat started drooling horribly this weekend when I give it to him. I’ll try the tablets on Monday.
I have had a number of cats over the years who suffered the side effects of Clavamox, usually very watery diarrhea and often loss of appetite.
Last year,y elderly cat, Peaches (who had just turned 16 then) had dental treatments done and was given afterwards for 10 days. Byt day 3, he had completely lost his appetite and his stools were watery. Because he is very thin and cannot afford to lose more weight, we had to switch to a different antibiotic.
The latest experience was this past week. My 10 year old cat, Mimsy, has bronchitis. After 4 doses of Clavamox, she has lost her appetite and is vomiting in 4 or 5 places even when she just drinks water. So, I will not give her another dose until I can talk to the vet. Unfortunately, this is the Friday before a holiday, and his office is closed for a long weekend.
I don’t know how long the last Clavamox dose will affect her and keep her from eating, so all I can do is watch her carefully for any signs of other side effects.
Over the space of 5 decades, I have taken in and kept, literally, dozens of strays and abandoned cats. I can count on the fingers of one hand the number who tolerated Clavamox without really nasty side effects. Since I don’t think I’m the only person who has had repeated problems with Clavamox for cats, which makes me wonder why is it vets seem to always hand Clavamox out as the first choice of antibiotic. Surely, the recurring side effect hassles would be a hint that it might not be worth the upset and pain the cats go through when using it, especially when there are many other antibiotics available.
So far Clavamox is working great on my 15 year old with a upper respiratory issue. After two days I see a really good improvement. Before she took it she had started staying in the closet all day. Now she is returning to her old self. This med seems to be working.
Did you notice any lethargy and increased sleeping while on Clavamox?
My poor sweet Luna has had a URI since last Friday and has been on Clavamox and an eye cream. She has 2 more days left.
I don’t know if it’s first time cat mom jitters, but I’m so nervous if she’s coping with the medication well. She’s no longer sneezing or coughing like she was, but she’s now so lethargic and she sleeping much more than usual. She squints her eyes often, but not all the time. And thankfully she’s playing a little bit. But still…Not my normal cat.
I did call to update the vet, but I just wanted to know if anyone else has had this experience and if I’m worrying too much. I just love her so much.
Any advice and comfort would be SOOOO appreciated!