Standard dose: 22 mg/kg orally every 12 hours
Disclaimer: Always follow your veterinarian's prescription. Do not self-prescribe antibiotics for animals.
Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic effective against many gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus) and some gram-negative organisms. In cats, it is used for skin infections, urinary tract infections, wound infections, and respiratory infections. Standard dose: 22 mg/kg every 12 hours, or 10-15 mg/lb twice daily. Treatment typically lasts 7-14 days — complete the full course even if symptoms improve. Side effects are usually mild: vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite. Give with food to reduce GI upset. Cephalexin does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier well and is eliminated primarily by the kidneys. Do not use in cats with known cephalosporin or penicillin allergy.