Clindamycin is an broad-spectrum antibiotic that works quickly to treat the source of the infection. Clindamycin works in bacterial skin infections as well as dental and deep-wound infections and inflammation of the bone marrow and adjacent bone. It may also be used to treat protozoal infections including toxoplasmosis.

Dogs and Cats

Clindamycin is used to treat bacterial skin infections, deep wounds, abscesses, and osteomyelitis.

clindamycin

Side effects may include stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. If your pet develops severe, prolonged or bloody diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Clindamycin should be given orally as directed by your veterinarian. Use all of the medication prescribed, even if your pet appears well. If the entire course of treatment is not given, the infection may recur or worsen.

This medication does not have an FDA approved indication for use in animals, but it is a common and acceptable practice for veterinarians to prescribe this human medication for use in animals.

Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication or supplements you are giving your pet. Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely. The following drugs can potentially interact with clindamycin: neuromuscular blocking agents, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, diphenoxylate, and opiates. Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together. Because of potential adverse gastrointestinal effects, do not administer to rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, horses, chinchillas or ruminating animals.

Allergic reactions to medications may occur. Be sure to inform VetSource and your veterinarian if your pet has any known drug sensitivities or allergies. If your pet displays symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your veterinarian immediately or go to a veterinary emergency clinic. Symptoms may include but are not limited to: swollen lips, tongue, face, airways; difficulty breathing; agitation; profuse salivation; vomiting; widespread hives and itching.