Winn Feline Foundation Progress Report
http://www.winnfelinehealth.org/
By Susan Little DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Feline)

2001

Pharmacokinetics of Enrofloxacin, a Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic, in Neonatal Kittens
Investigators: M.A. Seguin, M.G. Papich, J.K. Levy
College of Veterinary Medicine,
University of Florida

Funded 2000

A leading cause of death in kittens during the first few weeks of age is septicemia caused by bacterial infections. Veterinary medicine has little accurate information on how to dose antibiotics safely and effectively for kittens in this young age group. Using dosages for adults may result in overdosage, but guessing at doses may result in under treatment.

Enrofloxacin (Baytril^®, Bayer Animal Health) is an antibiotic with an excellent spectrum of activity against many common bacterial species that infect neonatal kittens. However, no studies have been done to determine the safe and effective dose for kittens. The object of this study was to determine the best guidelines for administration of enrofloxacin to kittens in the 2 to 8-week age group.

A dose of 5 mg/kg was evaluated when given by oral, intravenous and subcutaneous routes. The drug dose was evaluated in kittens at the ages of 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks old, as well as in adult cats for comparison. The investigators measured the serum levels of enrofloxacin and its metabolite, ciprofloxacin.

References:

Seguin, M., M. Papich, et al. (2001). Pharmacokinetics of enrofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic in neonatal kittens (abstract). Proc 19th American College Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum, Denver, CO.