Keeping cats free of infections is something all cat parents will have to deal with eventually during the life they share with their feline. While antibiotic treatments are usually obtained only by prescription, they can sometimes be purchased from a vet's office or online without a prescription. Do you need a prescription for amoxicillin for cats? Can you get over-the-counter antibiotics for your cat? These are common questions many cat parents have, especially because prescription meds are pricey.
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Before giving your cat any medication, whether it be a liquid, pill, or topical, it's crucial to ask your veterinarian for advice. This is true even for over-the-counter remedies. Also note that deep wounds must be treated by a veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for a veterinarian's opinion.
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Topical ointments for minor cuts
Cats get lots of scrapes, cuts, and scratches in their lifetime. This is especially true with younger cats and those who go outdoors, but even an older indoor cat can get into a tussle with another pet or injure himself on something in the home.
Using an anti-bacterial ointment can help ease pain and will aid in healing. Topical salves and ointments specifically made for cats can be found in most pet stores or online or even from your vet without a prescription. Be mindful that cats groom themselves using their mouth and tongue, so don't use anything that could be harmful if ingested.
Tetracycline destroys bacteria
Many of us remember using tetracycline when we were teenagers for acne and other skin issues. Tetracycline for cats is a multipurpose antibiotic typically available as a capsule or tablet. There is also tetracycline ointment for cats.
No matter whether it is given orally or topically, tetracycline destroys bacterial infections. It does so by blocking bacteria's protein-creating process, a process on which the bacteria depend for survival. Most often, in the case of cats, tetracycline is used for eye infections. It is important to see a vet if your kitty is experiencing runny eyes, itchy eyes, redness, or swelling.
You probably will not be able to get amoxicillin for cats without a vet's prescription. It's unusual to get antibiotics for a cat without a vet prescription, but sometimes, they are available if the cat has had a previous history of a chronic issue that was successfully treated with amoxicillin and if the vet knows your cat. Online retailers usually require a prescription for antibiotic medications. Related treatments definitely require a prescription, like azithromycin, doxycycline, and similar, more powerful antibiotics.
Herbs as an alternative
Just as with people, cats can benefit from the use of natural antibiotics that don't require a prescription as an alternative measure in cases of mild infection. Always talk to your vet first before giving your cat herbs as you want to be sure you're not giving them too much or the wrong type. If your cat's illness is not life-threatening or very mild, herbs like echinacea and goldenseal, or slippery elm, can be used as long as the cat is tolerant of the herbal treatment. Echinacea with goldenseal is a natural antibiotic that is helpful in fighting infection. Slippery elm can help with digestive issues.
Always be extra careful when administering herbal treatments and if your cat does not respond well, stop using the treatment and call your vet as soon as possible.