Metronidazole for Dogs – Key Information You Should Know

When dogs have diarrhea, they often get treated with antibiotics. Metronidazole is one such antibiotic used to help soothe upset stomachs in our furry friends. But infections can pop up anywhere in their bodies, like the eyes, skin, ears, lungs, intestines, urinary tract, and other organs. Metronidazole works against certain bacteria to help eliminate diarrhea in dogs.

In this Happy Garden article, we’ll chat about the most common uses of this helpful drug.

What is Metronidazole?

Metronidazole, or Flagyl as it’s often called, is a synthetic antibiotic that you can get in pills or liquid form. It’s super effective against pathogens causing protozoal infections and anaerobic bacteria, making it a dependable choice for treatment. This medication helps by stopping the growth of bacteria and protozoa, which in turn helps clear up the infection. It’s commonly prescribed for things like bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and certain gastrointestinal infections. Most people handle Metronidazole well, though some might have side effects like nausea, a metallic taste, or mild stomach discomfort. Just a reminder: it’s really important to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better early on, to make sure the infection is completely gone.

General Info About Metronidazole

Metronidazole contains the active ingredient of the same name. It kills most protozoa (parasites), including:

• Trichomonas
• Giardia
• Balantidium coli

In addition, it is active against anaerobic pathogenic bacteria, which do not need oxygen to survive and reproduce.

Important: Metronidazole is not effective against pathogenic fungi and viral bacteria, so it should not be used for self-medication. Only a veterinarian can diagnose the type of pathogen.

Metronidazole quickly spreads throughout the animal’s bloodstream and reaches its maximum concentration in plasma within an hour. The therapeutic effect lasts up to a day, and it is accumulated in the liver and excreted from the body within 24 hours.

When is Metronidazole for Dogs Prescribed?

Given the selective effect of the active ingredient on protozoa and some types of bacteria, Metronidazole is used to treat the following infectious diseases in dogs:

• Infections caused by anaerobic bacteria
• Post-surgery secondary infections
• Cancerous tumors
• Necrotic mastitis
• Diarrhea
• Giardiasis
• Ulcerative gingivitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

A veterinarian will determine the type of pathogen and prescribe Metronidazole accordingly.

Metronidazole for Dogs with Anaerobic Infections

Anaerobic infections, also known as gas gangrene or malignant edema, occur in bruised, torn, and crushed deep wounds. This type of damage requires prompt treatment in a veterinary clinic. Anaerobic infections develop due to pathogenic microorganisms that do not need oxygen to reproduce, leading to rapid tissue necrosis without signs of inflammation.

Symptoms of Anaerobic Infection:

• Pain
• Fever
• Swelling of the affected area
• Thrombosis
• Purulent discharge from the wound
• Increased heart rate
• Symptoms of depression

Metronidazole for Dogs with Giardiasis

Giardiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the protozoan Giardia. It often affects dogs without visible signs, making it particularly dangerous as it can be transmitted to humans. Giardiasis is accompanied by damage to the small intestine, presenting as allergic, neurological, and dermatological symptoms.

Symptoms of Giardiasis:

• Dysbacteriosis (intestinal microflora imbalance)
• Gastrointestinal tract dysfunction
• Food digestion and absorption disorders
• Hypervitaminosis
• Atopic dermatitis

Metronidazole for Dogs with Gingivitis

Gingivitis, an inflammatory process of the gums, occurs due to improper oral hygiene and feeding. Food particles accumulate between the teeth, promoting the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Symptoms of Gingivitis:

• Bad breath
• Gum swelling
• Redness of soft tissues (hyperemia)
• Bleeding
• Ulcers on the gums
• Purulent discharge from the gums
• Sore gums

Dosage

Metronidazole should be administered as directed by a veterinarian, usually with food. The standard dose ranges from 10mg to 30mg per 1 kg of the pet’s body weight, divided into two doses (morning and evening). The typical treatment duration is five to seven days, depending on the condition being treated.

Restrictions

Metronidazole should not be used in dogs with individual hypersensitivity or during pregnancy. In recommended doses, the medication is safe. However, if an allergic reaction occurs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Dietary Restrictions: Meat should only be given to the pet five days after the end of the treatment.

Metronidazole Side Effects in Dogs

When given as prescribed, Metronidazole is generally safe but may cause mild side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Lethargy

In rare cases, Metronidazole can affect the central nervous system and liver. Severe adverse effects are more likely with long-term or high-dose treatment. Contact your veterinarian if your dog shows any symptoms of toxicity, such as:

• Weakness or difficulty walking
• Involuntary eyeball movement
• Disorientation
• Head tilt or seizures
• Tremors
• Rapid heart rate
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin

Are There Other Treatments for Dogs with Diarrhea?

While antibiotics like Metronidazole are standard for treating bacterial infections, it’s crucial to recognize that other causes of diarrhea may not require antibiotics. In some cases, indiscriminate use of antibiotics can lead to resistance or other side effects. Many pet owners are discovering the benefits of CBD, which is increasingly popular due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. CBD can help to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea. Happy Garden’s natural CBD products for pets offer a gentle alternative and are often used as supportive or primary treatments for specific health conditions, including anxiety, pain management, and inflammation. By choosing a holistic approach, pet owners can provide their furry friends with a balanced and effective care regimen.