Diarrhea in dogs can be triggered by a variety of factors.
To get quick relief here, among other things, is suitable Metronidazole for dogs.
However, this «diarrhea pill» does not replace finding out the exact cause by the veterinarian.
You will now find out what you have to consider with metronidazole for the dog.
Metronidazole for dogs: what it is and what it is used for
Metronidazole for dogs is what is known as an antidiarrheal antibiotic. Sounds complicated, but it really isn’t.
Because behind it hides nothing else than an antibiotic agent used for diarrhea in dogs becomes.
This in turn was triggered by the following things, among others:
Metronidazole is now used not only for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but also for these clinical pictures:
IMPORTANT
In order for metronidazole to work properly in your dog and not cause harm, you should only administer if your vet deems it necessary.
Metronidazole for dogs comes in tablet, capsule, and liquid forms. The latter is administered intravenously, so only by the treating veterinarian.
In addition, metronidazole for dogs is available in strengths of 250 mg and 500 mg.
Proper use and dosage of metronidazole
Depending on the illness daily dose of metronidazole for dogs at 14 to 22 mg per kilogram of body weight.
If the infection is severe, the dose can be up to 44 mg per kilogram of the dog’s body weight.
Ideally, you should give your dog metronidazole with some food so that it accepts the tablet more easily.
The correct dosage and application is after consultation with your veterinarian, who can determine the right amount based on your dog’s body weight.
Good to know
You should never crush the pill, as it is said to have an extremely bitter taste – making administering it a stressful affair.
Please note that you should not necessarily use metronidazole on your dog if it has liver or kidney disease.
How long does it take for metronidazole to work in dogs?
The effects of metronidazole in dogs usually appear between 1 and 2 hours.
Depending on the cause of the disease, treatment with metronidazole lasts 5 days, possibly longer.
This is, among other things, the recommended duration of use in the case of a Giardia infestation.
This is the only way to ensure that these protozoa have really been rendered harmless.
If the therapy has not worked, it can be repeated after a break of several days. Again, you should discuss this with your vet.
Once the therapy with metronidazole has been completed, you should also ensure that your dog’s intestinal flora is sanitized.
Because antibiotics always attack the bacterial cultures in the intestines, in bitches, the vaginal flora is also thrown off balance by these drugs.
We recommend a probiotic here – even during antibiotic therapy. You will also find further tips in our guide to building up the dog’s intestinal flora.
What side effects can metronidazole cause in dogs?
Metronidazole side effects for dogs include including vomiting, loss of appetite and, paradoxically, diarrhea.
Since metronidazole has the property of crossing the blood-brain barrier, the list of possible side effects is extremely long and can be expanded to include the following:
- ataxia
- Tremble
- blood in the urine
- depressions
- epileptic seizures
- disorientation
- Allergic reaction
- tilting of the head
- Increased drooling/gagging
If you notice side effects that have a neurological origin, you should immediately find a less stressful alternative with your veterinarian.
Where is metronidazole available?
Metronidazole is a prescription drug that you need a prescription from your vet.
It is then available in your local pharmacy or in an online pharmacy. Your veterinarian may also have the medication in their practice.
A pack of Metronidazole 250 mg with 12 tablets costs around €15. This value should serve as a first point of contact for the possible drug costs.
What alternatives are there to metronidazole?
An alternative to metronidazole for dogs can among other things Metrobactin beif your dog has had a really bad experience with metronidazole.
Metrobactin is also an antibiotic that also has an anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic effect, for example in Giardia.
A treatment period of 10 days may be necessary here; your veterinarian will also tell you the exact dosage.
Antibiotics containing amoxicillin and clavulanic acid can also be alternatives to metronidazole, such as Synulox and Kesium for dogs.
Conclusion
Metronidazole for dogs is an antibiotic that is used primarily for diarrhea caused by parasites or inflammation.
In addition, veterinarians prescribe it also in infections of the oral cavity, the bones and the central nervous system.
The veterinarian will also explain how to correctly dose and use metronidazole for your dog.
The list of possible side effects is long and not without – perhaps a reason why you want to choose an alternative like Metrobaction or Synulox.
What experiences with metronidazole for dogs can you share with us? We look forward to reading these and other helpful tips in our comments soon!