Cephalexin for Cats Dosage Calculator
Calculate safe cephalexin antibiotic dosage for cats based on weight and veterinary guidelines
Calculate Cephalexin Dosage
⚠️ Veterinary Prescription Required
Important: Cephalexin is a prescription antibiotic that requires veterinary supervision
Never self-medicate: Only use as prescribed by a licensed veterinarian
Complete the course: Always finish the full antibiotic course as directed
Enter your cat's current body weight
Typical range: 15-35 mg/kg as prescribed by vet
Select the available formulation
As prescribed by your veterinarian
Cephalexin Dosage Results
Enter cat weight and dosage base to calculate cephalexin dose
📋 Dosage Guidelines
Standard Range: 15-35 mg/kg per dose
Frequency: Usually twice daily (every 12 hours)
Duration: 7-14 days or as prescribed by veterinarian
Administration: Can be given with or without food
💡 Based on MSD Manual veterinary recommendations
Cephalexin Dosage Chart for Cats
| Weight (kg) | Weight (lbs) | 15 mg/kg | 20 mg/kg | 35 mg/kg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2.2 | 15 mg | 20 mg | 35 mg |
| 2 | 4.4 | 30 mg | 40 mg | 70 mg |
| 3 | 6.6 | 45 mg | 60 mg | 105 mg |
| 4 | 8.8 | 60 mg | 80 mg | 140 mg |
| 5 | 11.0 | 75 mg | 100 mg | 175 mg |
| 6 | 13.2 | 90 mg | 120 mg | 210 mg |
| 7 | 15.4 | 105 mg | 140 mg | 245 mg |
| 8 | 17.6 | 120 mg | 160 mg | 280 mg |
| 9 | 19.8 | 135 mg | 180 mg | 315 mg |
| 10 | 22.0 | 150 mg | 200 mg | 350 mg |
💡 Doses shown are per single administration. Typically given twice daily.
Available Formulations
Liquid Suspensions (Recommended for Cats)
125mg/5mL (25mg/mL)
Easier dosing for small cats
250mg/5mL (50mg/mL)
Higher concentration option
Solid Forms
Capsules: 250mg, 500mg
Can be opened and mixed with food
Tablets: 250mg, 500mg
May be split for smaller doses
Example Calculation
5 lb Cat with Skin Infection
Cat Weight: 5 lbs (2.27 kg)
Prescribed Dose: 20 mg/kg twice daily
Formulation: Liquid suspension 125mg/5mL
Treatment Duration: 10 days
Calculation Results
Per Dose: 2.27 kg × 20 mg/kg = 45.4 mg
Liquid Volume: 45.4 mg ÷ 25 mg/mL = 1.8 mL per dose
Daily Total: 1.8 mL × 2 = 3.6 mL per day
Course Total: 3.6 mL × 10 days = 36 mL needed
Safety Guidelines
Prescription Only
Requires veterinary prescription
Never use without vet supervision
Complete Course
Finish entire prescription
Even if symptoms improve
Administration
Can give with or without food
With food if stomach upset occurs
Potential Side Effects
Common: Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
Serious: Allergic reactions, breathing difficulties
Emergency: Facial swelling, severe vomiting
Monitor: Watch for changes in behavior or appetite
Contact vet: If any concerning symptoms appear
Understanding Cephalexin for Cats
What is Cephalexin?
Cephalexin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that belongs to the beta-lactam family. It works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis, causing the bacteria to weaken and die. It's particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria and some gram-negative bacteria.
Common Uses in Cats
- •Skin and soft tissue infections
- •Wound infections and abscesses
- •Urinary tract infections
- •Post-surgical infection prevention
Dosing Considerations
Standard Dosing
15-35 mg/kg every 12 hours for 7-14 days
Liquid Preferred
Suspension allows for more accurate dosing in cats
Food Interaction
Can be given with food to reduce stomach upset
Important: Never use expired cephalexin or human formulations without veterinary guidance. Always complete the full course even if symptoms improve.