Effective Cephalexin Treatment for Dog Ear Infections: Fast Relief and Vet-Recommended Care

Canine ear problems can be resolved with the use of cephalexin.

Ear infections in dogs are a common problem that most dog owners will face. There are different types of infections requiring different types of treatment. Cephalexin is one of the antibiotics of choice by most veterinarians to treat a dog's very painful ear infections as well as many other infectious disorders, bringing a dog great relief.

Significance

According to the Veterinary Partner and Petplace.com, the brand name for cephalexin is Keflex and is a part of the cephalosporin class of antibiotics. Cephalexin was first used for humans as far back as 1943. It is now prescribed by veterinarians as an oral drug for use in killing bacteria, by blocking the bacteria from forming a protective cell wall. Without this cell wall, the bacteria are vulnerable and die, preventing the infection from spreading.

Considerations of Ear Infections

The most common cause of a bacterial ear infection is allergies, which can cause the inner ear to become inflamed, as stated by the Petshed.com. The temperature and humidity in the ear canal is then increased, causing the perfect environment for bacterial growth. A bacterial ear infection can occur simultaneously with fungal or yeast infections, which all have the same predisposing factors and conditions. Your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic such as Cephalexin to treat these ear infections, in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory and medicated ear cleaner, bringing your dog complete relief.

Uses

Cephalexin is an antibiotic that is used to treat a variety of bacterial, skin, wound, bladder and bone infections and pneumonia in dogs and cats.

Formulas/Dosage

Cephalexin comes in tablets and capsules in 250 mg and 500 mg and also comes in an oral suspension in strengths of 25mg/ml and 50 mg/ml. This medication should be given per your veterinarian's recommendations, 15 to 20 mg per pound of dog weight every eight to 12 hours, depending on the severity of the ear infection being treated. It is important to follow your veterinarian's prescription plan and complete all the medication for your dog, even if the ear infection seems to be better, so as to prevent any relapse.

Side Effects

Cephalexin is generally a safe medication though your dog may have sensitivity to the drug. Aside from occasional diarrhea, the most common side effect is nausea and vomiting, which can easily be resolved by administering the medication with food. If your dog develops hyper-excitability or excessive drooling, inform your veterinarian.

Precautions

If your dog has a known hypersensitivity to Cephalexin, advise your veterinarian. There are certain other drugs that do not interact well with this drug so be sure to inform your veterinarian of all medications that your dog is taking.

Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.