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Educational Articles

Dogs + Medications & Supplements

  • Chlorhexidine topical (brand names Chlorhex®, Novalsan®, ChlorhexiDerm®) is an antiseptic used to treat skin infections. It is used to treat surface bacterial and/or fungal skin infections in cats and dogs. This medication may be part of a combination product that includes other medications. Chlorhexidine topical comes in shampoo, liquid, ointment, and wipe form.

  • Chlorhexidine/hydrocortisone/trizEDTA topical (TrizCHLOR® 4HC) is a shampoo and spray conditioner used topically in cats, dogs, and horses to support animals with conditions such as superficial, itchy, bacterial and fungal skin infections (pyoderma); acute moist dermatitis (hotspots); and pododermatitis (skin infections of the foot).

  • Chlorhexidine/ketoconazole/TrizEDTA flush: otic (Mal-A-Ket® Plus) is a liquid antibacterial and antifungal solution used for topical treatment of localized bacterial and yeast infections in dogs and cats. The solution can be used specifically in the ears as a flush treatment.

  • Chlorhexidine/ketoconazole/TrizEDTA flush: topical (Mal-A-Ket® Plus) is a liquid antibacterial and antifungal solution used to manage localized bacterial and yeast infections in dogs and cats. It should only be used topically on the skin or in the ears.

  • Ciprofloxacin is a systemic fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It is often given by mouth, but an injectable form is also available. The most common side effect is gastrointestinal distress, but other side effects are possible. It is contraindicated in young or dehydrated pets, or in pets with liver or kidney disease. It should not be the first-choice fluoroquinolone for veterinary patients.

  • Clarithromycin is given by mouth and used off label to treat certain bacterial infections in several animal species. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other macrolide antibiotics, in rabbits, gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, or horses more than four months old.

  • Clindamycin topical (brand names ClinzGard®, others) is an antimicrobial used to treat bacterial skin infections, acne, anal sac abscesses, and other wounds in cats and dogs. Clindamycin topical comes in variety of forms.

  • Clonazepam is given by mouth and is used off label to treat seizures and certain behavioral disorders. Common side effects include sleepiness, incoordination, drooling, excitement, or increased appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other benzodiazepines or in pets with significant liver disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Clonidine is a medication that is used to treat behavioral disorders in dogs, particularly anxiety or phobia-related. Give as directed. Side effects are generally mild if present and include sedation, lethargy, agitation/excitation, aggression, and constipation. Monitoring blood pressure as well as heart rate and rhythm is recommended with chronic use. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.

  • Clopidogrel is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or compounded liquid and is used off label to prevent abnormal blood clots in dogs, cats, and horses. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that have bleeding problems. If a negative reaction or bleeding occurs, please call your veterinary office.