Finding out that your dog has an infection, whether it’s in their skin or ears, is always a bummer. But receiving an official diagnosis from your veterinarian is the first step toward eliminating their uncomfortable symptoms.
To remedy your pup’s sickness, your veterinarian might’ve prescribed Baytril, which treats several types of infections. If your veterinarian recommended the antibiotic, they’re likely on the right plan. However, it’s a stronger medication and should be administered with caution. Here’s what you should know.
Baytril, the brand name of enrofloxacin, is a “broad spectrum coverage” medication, meaning it treats several bacterial infections, Dr. Elizabeth Devitt, DVM, a general practice veterinarian and veterinary consultant for Fetch, explains.
Because of Baytril’s strength, it’s not usually the first choice of treatment options for infections, Dr. Devitt adds. Instead, a veterinarian will typically use lab results to determine if it’s the right fit for your pup.
Pregnant or young pups that haven’t fully grown shouldn’t take this medication, Dr. Devitt warns. Giving this antibiotic to expecting, small-to-medium-sized dog breeds younger than 8 months or large-breed dogs less than 18 months old can cause damage to cartilage cells in developing joints.
Talk to your veterinarian if your dog is often dehydrated, has kidney or liver disease or has a history of seizures, as this antibiotic might not be the best option for them. Baytril can also enhance the insulin’s blood-sugar-lowering effects that can put diabetic dogs at risk of becoming hypoglycemic.
Certain medications, like cortisone (which can increase the risk of tendon rupture), vitamins or those that contain calcium, zinc or iron, shouldn’t be given to your dog at the same time as Baytril as they can interfere with the absorption of the antibiotic, Dr. Devitt shares.
Like many antibiotics, Baytril can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Unfortunately, it can also form crystals in a dog’s urine, leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Suppose Baytril is being administered at the vet. In that case, it will likely be given as an injection by your veterinarian, which might be the best option if your pup can't take oral medications. However, if your dog doesn’t mind tablets or chews, those are also available.
Dogs with ear infections will benefit from Baytril in the form of ear drops. Your veterinarian can recommend the best form of the antibiotic depending on what it’s being used to treat.
Veterinarians can recommend the proper dosage depending on what’s being treated and your dog’s weight. The dose can be given once daily or divided into two equal amounts every 12 hours. “Ideally, this medication works best when given on an empty stomach,” Dr. Devitt explains.
Always remember to follow the instructions and dosages that your veterinarian prescribes.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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