Amoxicillin/Clavulanate
“This page provides important general information for pet owners whose animals have been prescribed Amoxicillin/Clavulanate during a consultation by Dr Noor in Perth.”
Key Information
- This medicine is a two-part antibiotic used to treat infections caused by bacteria.
- Giving the dose with a meal can reduce stomach upset.
- The side effects seen most often are vomiting, loose stools (diarrhea), and eating less.
- Give every dose for the full time prescribed, even if your pet seems improved.
- Do not give this medicine to rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, or other small “pocket pets.” In these animals, amoxicillin may cause serious harm or death.
Note: This handout is meant to answer common questions. It does not include every detail about this medicine and does not replace medical guidance from your veterinary care team.
Description
- Type of medicine: Antibiotic
- Amoxicillin is an antibiotic related to penicillin.
- Clavulanate helps amoxicillin work better against some bacteria.
- Forms available: tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid taken by mouth
Other common names
- Augmentin
- Betacillin
- Clavacillin
- Clavamox
- Umbrellin
Uses
Approved uses in animals:
- Bacterial infections of the skin and soft tissues in dogs and cats
- Bacterial infections of the teeth and mouth in dogs
- Bacterial urinary tract infections in cats
Your veterinarian may also choose to use this medicine in other animal types or for other purposes.
Before this medication is given
No medicine is completely safe for every patient. Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Any other medicines or supplements your pet is receiving
- Any health problems your pet has now, or has had before
- Any past bad reactions your pet has had to medicines
- The possible risks of using this medicine if your pet is pregnant or nursing
Warnings for animals
Do not use this medicine:
- In animals that have an allergy to this medicine or to other penicillin-type antibiotics
- In rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, or other pocket pets, because amoxicillin may be harmful or fatal in these animals
Some animal competitions do not allow certain medicines. If your animal competes, check the rules while your animal is taking any medication.
Warnings for humans
- Wash your hands after you handle any medication.
- If you are allergic to penicillin-type antibiotics, wear gloves or do not handle this medicine.
How do I give this medication?
Give this medicine exactly the way your veterinarian prescribed it. Follow the directions on the prescription label.
- You may give it with food or without food. Giving it with food may help prevent stomach upset.
- If you are using a liquid, shake it well each time before you measure a dose.
- For liquids, measure using an oral syringe, a medicine cup, or a dosing spoon. Do not use kitchen spoons or other household measuring tools.
Side effects
Common — contact your veterinarian if these problems are strong, keep happening, or get worse over time:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Eating less
- In cats, not eating at all. This can sometimes lead to liver problems.
Severe — stop giving the medicine and contact your veterinarian right away if you notice any of the following:
- Poor coordination, shaking (tremors), or changes in behavior
- Fever, skin rashes, trouble breathing, or pale gums. These can be signs of an allergic reaction.
How will I know Amoxicillin/Clavulanate for pets is working?
Your pet should begin to seem better within 1 to 2 days.
Call your veterinary clinic if your pet’s signs get worse or do not improve.
How long will the medication effects last?
This medicine should no longer work within 24 hours after the last dose.
It may stay in the body longer if your pet’s kidneys do not work as well.
How long do I give it for?
This medicine may be prescribed for different lengths of time. Give it for the full time your veterinarian instructs.
It is important to finish the entire course of treatment, even if your animal starts feeling better.
Overdose
Vomiting is the most likely sign if too much is given.
Very large amounts can harm the nervous system.
If you see or think an overdose may have happened, contact your veterinarian.
If possible, have the product container or label with you.
Missed dose
In most situations, if you forget a dose:
- Give the dose as soon as you remember, then go back to the usual schedule.
- If it is almost time for the next dose, do not give the missed dose.
- Give the next dose at the normal time.
- Continue with the regular schedule.
If you are not sure what to do, call your veterinary clinic. Do not give two doses at once and do not give extra doses.
Storage
- Keep tablets at room temperature.
- If tablets are packaged in foil, do not take them out until just before giving.
- If your veterinarian instructed you to split tablets, place any remaining pieces back into the foil packet and wrap them.
- Keep unmixed powder at room temperature. After you add water to mix it, store it in the refrigerator.
- Keep this medicine where children and animals cannot reach it.
- Chewable forms are designed to taste good to animals. Store them securely and well out of reach to help prevent accidental overdose.
Disposal
- Liquid forms must be discarded 10 days after they are mixed with water.
- Do not flush this medicine down a toilet and do not pour it into a sink.
Ways to get rid of unused or expired medicine include:
- Drug take-back locations: This is the best option when available. To find a nearby site, contact local law enforcement or your waste management office.
- At-home disposal: Mix the medicine with coffee grounds or kitty litter, put the mixture into a sealed plastic bag, and place it in the trash.
Do not keep leftover medicine for later use and do not give it to anyone else.
Questions? Speak with your veterinarian.
“Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided as general educational material only. Every animal’s health situation is unique, and treatment decisions must be based on a full veterinary assessment. Always follow the specific instructions given during your consultation, and contact the prescribing veterinarian if you have any concerns.”